reyloyal

[reyloyal]

Stronghold~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 10

warnings and summary- masterlist

cw -threats of violence, violence and killing, Reylo baby

Niima

***

With a knack for moving about the village unseen, Rey could come and go, unbothered most times she ventured out into the world.

She moved like a ghost among the people, her brown cloak the color of the muddy streets, her face hidden unless she chose to reveal herself.

The sounds of the town square were always overwhelming to a woman used to the call of birds and the rustle of leaves, so she avoided the crowded parts as best she could, keeping to the back roads and alleys, floating through the early morning bustle with only one stop important enough to take her from the sanctuary of home.

With her destination in sight, she hurried to the door.

Three knocks and she waited, knowing the occupants were not so quick on their feet.

The door opened with a creak and Rey grinned at the soft, wrinkled face that greeted her.

“Hello Jocasta” She said and accepted the warm invitation inside.

“My girl, what have you brought for me today?” The small woman asked as she excitedly hobbled along side Rey.

The room was dark and a bit stale, but not so bad as it used to be.

“Tea, in exchange for the blanket you’ve finished.” Rey replied as she sat down at their only table set in the middle of the room. This table served many purposes, including a place for hospitality.

“No! Your own mix?”

Rey grinned and watched as Jocasta sat across from her, old eyes still holding a bit of a sparkle. “Of course. Something to keep you moving.” She said with a wink.

The woman laughed and shook her head. “You spoil us my dear. Let me go and get your blanket!” She said and hopped up only seconds after sitting.

Rey nodded and sat back feeling quite content to rest here a while. On her return to Niima after that abrupt departure and before retreating into the forest, Rey had come to Jocasta first. She so needed the loving touch of someone who actually cared that she’d practically fallen into the arms of the only living people she’d ever looked on as family. But as she’d fallen asleep in their loft (just like she’d done as a child after they discovered her hiding in the barn) Rey noticed that the old run down shack wasn’t as neglected as it once was.

The old woman wouldn’t say how, but she and her husband Frik had come into a small sum and been able to have the holes in the roof and walls repaired. They were even able to pay one of the village girls to come and clean for them once a month.

Still, they lived so humbly, Rey wished they would just come and live with her in the woods, but she knew they loved their home, and whatever good fortune they’d come across had afforded them the opportunity to actually enjoy it.

“Where’s Frik?” Rey called to the narrow backroom where Jocasta had gone rummaging.

“Oh, gone to trade at the market I’m sure.” She said and reappeared with a perfectly folded bundle in her arms.

Rey sat at attention, her heart fluttering as the bony hands placed the blanket on the table.

“Oh, Jocasta, it’s beautiful.” She whispered and ran her fingers over the pale blue knitting. “Where ever did you find the wool for it?” She asked, admiring the beautiful basket weave pattern. “My tea is not a fair trade. I’ll bring something more I promise!”

The old woman waved away her words and pulled a face. “Stop that. You give us something much more than tea and I know it.” She said with a wrinkle in her nose. Rey blushed and looked down. Her secret mixture was selfish but she wanted to keep them with her for as long as possible and she wouldn’t let them simply die over something as trivial as old age. So she told them it was just to ensure good health. Wise enough to know better, Jocasta ignored the scent of a life spell, and appreciated the witch’s efforts.

“Now, as for where, don’t you worry about that.” The woman went on. “Just enjoy it my dear girl. It’s our gift to you.” She said and reached over, slipping her hand along Rey’s cheek. Her palm was warm, smooth with age and soft as silk. It still felt to Rey like the same touch of love it’d been when she was just a scared little girl.

The front door slamming open made both women jump. Rey was up on her feet much faster than she’d managed in the last few weeks.

“Oh! You old fool! You’ve scared us both to death!” Jocasta scolded.

Old Frik walked in looking confused, as though he had no idea anyone else was inside. In his arms was a crate full of vegetables, and Rey smiled, relaxing now.

“What a good haul!” She said and rushed to help him.

“Away, away with ya!” He snapped refusing to let her help.

She giggled and stepped back as he put the box on the table. He was usually a rather jovial sort for living a hard life with little prospects and would always make Rey laugh with his filthy jokes and silly stories, but today he glanced nervously back at her, as though he wished she weren’t there. It did not take magic to know something was wrong. She could sense it -strong about him like an aura.

Jocasta came around to his side of the table, happily inspecting the vegetables but paused as Frik leaned close to whisper something in her ear.

Rey watched carefully as the old woman stepped back from her husbands news with a gasp, her hand over her mouth.

A rush of fear coursed through Rey like fire.

“Frik, what is it?” She asked ready to protect them if she must.

He looked at her again and tried to smile, shaking his head as though it were nothing. He moved to walk away, but Jocasta stopped him. “No you don’t. Tell her.”

With hesitation, he turned, slowly wringing his hands. His kindly eyes could hardly settle. He must have looked at all four walls before finally looking down at Rey. “You —you should go on home.” He said with the loving tone of a father trying his hardest to protect his child, but Rey was a grown woman now, not the little girl curled up in the hay.

“Why?” She asked determined to know the reason, though she feared his answer.

He glanced at his wife, then down at the floor, his mouth set in a stern line as he found the words. “A rider showed up in the night. Folks say he took a bed at the inn.”

“What has that got to do with me?” She asked. Her voice was cold and thin.

“I heard talk down at the market, they said this rider wasn’t a normal man just traveling through. He wore a hooded cloak to hide himself, but he stands, tall as a mountain... and rode up on a stallion black as night.”

She shut her eyes as he spoke.

“That’s no guarantee.” Jocasta tried quickly, her worried looks darting from Frik to Rey.

“No, but with the rumors from the south, it’s very likely.” Her husband said.

“Rumors from the south?” Rey asked, her voice shaking. She hadn’t been to the village in weeks, and had no other way to hear news.

“They say the king’s abandoned his kingdom. Left it behind like an apple core tossed to the dirt.” Frik shook his head as he spoke. “Folk say he’s gone mad, but others say he was never right to begin with. Something dark in the man.” He squinted as if he could see the king's evil seep into the cracks and corners of the house.

“Dark indeed.” Jocasta whispered remembering.

Rey came back to the table and sat like a stone. Her eyes focused on nothing, her arms hung limp at her sides. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest, and as she raised her head, tears shimmered in her eyes. Jacosta reached and took the girls hand. “He knows…” Rey whispered.

“Then, perhaps this is a good sign! For him to do what they say he’s done —leaving his throne behind— all to come back to you! Surely he means you no harm.”

Rey sat dumbfounded. “How could he know? I did not let him see.” Her brow furrowed with confusion as she thought back to Kylo’s unexpected appearance within her mind.

“See? What are you on about?” Frik asked with his hand on her shoulder.

Rey shook her head. She knew he wouldn’t understand the ways of magic like Jocasta could. The tiny old woman did not possess it, but she was very sensitive to it and had worked a few minor spells of her own over the years. Hers was a learned talent, encouraged by Rey’s power but wisely kept to herself for fear of the villagers scorn and inciting the preachers wrath. Jocasta even feared Frik finding out, understanding as the man was.

Rey looked up at the narrow old face, desperate for her wisdom.

“Go home.” Jocasta said gently but with authority. “Build your walls strong around you, if you truly wish him to stay away.”

She could, Rey thought. She could strengthen the energy in the woods with elemental magic and perhaps even a small sacrifice to the ancients of her dark past. They would protect her though she toyed with one danger to hide from another.

As she seriously considered it —resigning herself to needing the black magic— the slow, steady rhythm began to beat in her ears.

It was the double pulse of a strong heart. One she’d heard for the first time in her woods so long ago, and been comforted by in the dark of the war tent. She would know it’s particular pattern anywhere and in a village of hundreds, only one was strong enough to rise above the others.

Rey shut her eyes and gripped Jocasta’s hand but knew it was too late.

She felt her muscles flex to run, but she would not. She would leave with dignity and go home, and in time he would surely continue on with his business as he had no reason to believe he had any here. She opened her eyes and looked up at Jocasta.

“Perhaps stay a while with us, until you’re alright to go?” Frik suggested protectively, as he focused just over her shoulder, like the door might fly open at any moment.

Rey managed a smile and shook her head. “I’ll go home for now, I’ll be alright.” They saw through her attempt.

“Rey, dear girl, are you sure you want to go out there?” Jocasta asked as Rey took the blanket and stood to face the door.

“I am.”

Knowing the young witch was too headstrong to be stopped, the old woman walked with her. “We will always be here for you my dear one. You come back if you need us. Go home if you’re not safe. Summon those who hold the powers that we do not.” She whispered with her intent clear and Rey smiled briefly at her wise words.

“I will, I promise.” She said, then braced herself and stepped out the door.

The sound of the village folk going about their morning trades and chores came floating down the road, echoing along the dark rotting wood of the homes pressed too close together to create this alley of decay. The random windows and doors looked as though they’d been punched into the walls which leaned under the weight of poor construction.

Rey rolled her eyes against the dizzying sight to steady herself, having never found it easy to be surrounded by lumber instead of living trees.

The loud squabbles and bartering over the value of the villager’s goods grew louder, creating a hectic chatter that added to the sense of disarray in her life. But even over the noise she could make out that low, steady drum.

He was very near, though she stood in the shadows alone.

Taking a few steps away from Frik and Jocasta’s door, Rey felt the distinct sense of being watched that made her shiver. Not only was he near, he was aware of her arrival too.

The realization alarmed her, as it was obvious his skills had improved over their time apart.

Taking to the east, she kept her eyes open to any movement, her ears straining desperately to hear even the lightest of foot steps.

Darting down the alley, Rey began to feel very much like a mouse hiding from a great cat who stalked her moves, so she reached within, calming herself as she made her way towards the sunny pasture ahead where some of the farmers kept their carts and horses. Her own sweet mare stood grazing among them.

She spotted Frigga chewing at the grass, and a determined urge to reach the horse before he could find her propelled Rey forward. She was so close…

“Rey”

She gasped sharply and spun.

Still alone.

He was using the force to find her. His magic had become as solid and strong as her own, she could feel it reaching for her, begging to be allowed in.

“I know you’re here.” He said in her mind and she shut her eyes tight trying to ignore him.

Her anger surged as she moved briskly towards the sun, towards her only hope of evading him and the confrontation she did not wish to have.

“Rey!”

“Get out of my head!” She shouted aloud just as the warmth of daylight touched her face, and she was free of the stifling alley.

Rey crossed the road feeling relieved to have escaped, only to have the way blocked as Kylo stepped in front of her, appearing like a storm cloud to eclipse the sun, throwing her into darkness.

She repelled, spinning to run back towards the market, but he reached out and took her arm.

“Wait!” He tried.

She pulled to free herself, but his hand was tight around her.

“Will you not speak to me?” He asked, voice sharp with frustration as opposed to anger.

It made no difference to her.

“Let go!” She shouted.

“Rey, please. I’ve come to speak to you, not chase you down.”

She stopped tugging at his hold and looked over her shoulder. “The last time I saw you, you told me to run, so I did. I ran and I stayed away Kylo. So why have you come chasing after me, if not to follow through with your threats.”

He scoffed at her words but let go of her. “You can’t believe I’ve come all this way to —harm you?”

“You seemed very determined then,” She snapped, still facing away from him.

“Rey, that was.” He stopped and took a breath. “Can we not talk about this someplace else?” He asked glancing at the trickle of townsfolk walking up, curious about the altercation.

She shook her head “You should not have come here Kylo Ren. We have nothing to discuss.” She said and moved to pull her hood up.

In an effort to stop her, the king reached out, gripping her shoulder, he pulled her around to look at her straight on.

The sight of her beautiful face haloed by the hood made him loosen his hand. He looked at her as if stunned to know that she were really here and not an apparition.

“Let me go.” She said softly and shrugged away, turning before she could be fooled into seeing him as anything but the dangerous creature that he was and most certainly was still.

Surprisingly, he did not follow. She went to the paddock, rubbing Frigga’s side and quickly strapped the blanket to the saddle. With a little effort pulled herself up and safely away from him.

Daring to find his gaze fixed on her, Rey pushed down the fear, hurt, and love to speak. “Leave this place Kylo. There is nothing for you here.” She said, and before he could reply, she clicked her tongue and the horse trotted away.

He watched her go until she’d disappeared down the lane and around the trees.

Letting his eyes fall to the pale blue lying in the grass, he went and picked up the bundle she’d dropped.

The blanket was soft, well made. She’d left her forest for it and as he gripped the thick knitting, the king felt his senses stirring. Nothing here for him here… or everything?

*

In the safety of her woodland realm, the witch rubbed the nose of her sweet horse and took the saddle from her back, struggling for a moment, but managed to sling it over the wooden hitch she’d made.

“Don’t judge me Frigga, I made the right choice.” She said softy looking up into the black eyes of the animal.

The horse nuzzled her and Rey gave a sad smile before turning to retreat into the hovel.

Feeling disconnected from reality, Rey moved slowly, lost in her thoughts about the arrival of the king. The way he looked at her when she’d turned to face him played over and over again in her mind. He seemed nearly as stunned to see her in the flesh again as she had been to see him.

Trying to decide between crying over tea or screaming into the void, Rey walked down the stone steps and inside, looking up with a sigh.

The choice was made for her. She screamed, stumbling back.

Bracing herself on the doorway, the young witch tried to make sense of what she saw.

The shimmering image of a man she did not know wavered like the bodies of her spirit guides, only this one was different somehow, something felt wrong about his appearance.

“Who are you?” She demanded, hand on the door post to steady herself.

His head was tilted up, as if looking to the sky, but at the sound of her voice, he lowered his gaze, and Rey thought for a moment she’d gone mad.

His eyes were void of color, blank. White as milk.

This was something she’d never before encountered, and though she felt the icy touch of fear, Rey remembered who she was and the power she held and quickly began a chant.

She would not allow such an invasion of her home.

Her voice was low and her words heavy with the power of the ancient spell used to ward off a foul spirit, but he only stood there watching her. She could feel his gaze through the opaque veils of his pupil-less eyes.

As she summoned the protection, she felt the ghost respond. He did not speak, but he seemed aware of her attempt to rid herself of his presence.

Shouting the words then, determined to win the bizarre battle, Rey finished the incantation that should have tossed the spirit from the room, but all that happened was a flickering through the pale form, as though he were a flame struggling to stay lit in the wind.

She gave an angry shout before trying once more.

“Your words can not touch me witch.” He said unfazed.

Rey inhaled the spell, stunned by his voice.

His deep vibrato resonated in her bones, and she felt for a moment like she knew this dark magic. It was something she’d never experienced before, but, she felt certain her shamed ancestry was rooted in the same dark arts as this.

��Who are you?” She asked again.

“I —am the gods’ all seeing eye. You attempt to hide yourself in this protected forest.” He spat the words at her “You can not hide from me witch.”

Rey stepped forward, her inherited temper raging. “Come to me in the flesh and say it again. Show yourself to me if you truly wish to see” She taunted.

“Oh, I am already here.” He sounded amused. “And I am coming for you.”

“You dare threaten me? You? A coward hiding behind magic? Bring your true form and I will end you!” She said through clenched teeth.

His laughter was an offensive cackle. She did step back then disturbed by it.

“Foolishly brave girl.” He said and she noted his twisted mouth, drawn in by what looked be be a horrid scar along his face … wait, she stood staring. I know this voice. Rey went stiff with with the realization.

Snoke.

She’d never seen his face in her visions, but there was no mistaking his menacing baritone.

“You play with dark magic priest, you should not toy with things you know nothing of.” She warned.

The priest smiled. “Ah, but you see I know so much more than you ever will.”

“What do you want with me? Why are you here?” She asked curious.

The projected image of Snoke flickered again and he leaned to the side as if trying to see around her. “Where is he?”

“Who?”

“Kylo Ren,” He said his name with a slow rolling timber as though satisfied.

Rey glanced over her shoulder thinking the priest saw him, but they were still alone.

“I have no idea where he is.” She said looking back “He’s your king, shouldn’t you?”

“Im here.”

Rey looked past the priest to find Kylo coming down around the hill to the back entrance of her hovel.

The priest gave another awful laugh and his image grew just a little stronger.

“Leave this place Snoke, you can not be here.” Kylo said stepping inside.

“No my young king, it is you who does not belong, and you who must leave.” Snoke’s ghost replied. “And you will see the error of your ways soon.”

“I see through your tricks, your attempts to frighten the witch and find me. But you’re not so smart as you think” Ren said sounding a little too calm and Rey stared at him, confused. Did he not see the same thing she did?

“Tricks or not, your time here will not last. You will see, and you will come to me and I will judge you according to the laws of the gods.”

“You have always judged me, nothing is different, except that now I see who you are, and I know exactly who I am.” Ren came forward walking into the little kitchen and crouched down, picking up something small and black from the ground.

“Kylo?” Rey rushed around the table to his side, watching as the image of Snoke moved with the object, as though they were connected somehow.

Standing, Kylo gripped and snapped the disk and the ghost of Snoke wavered before going dark.

They were alone.

“What is it?” She asked pulling at his arm to look into his closed fist.

“I’ve seen this before, at the temple but never knew what they were used for.” He opened his hand to present two halves of a black stone, cut and sanded down to a smooth thin circle.

Rey gasped. “A vision stone!” She reached out and touched one cautiously. “I’ve read about them in my book, but I’ve never seen one. They give the power of sight. How did Snoke manage to get one in here? Someone would have had to...” Her words were cut short by Kylo grabbing her arm and tossing her behind him.

Rey grabbed the table to brace herself, spinning to see what was happening.

He was gone, running out the door so fast she’d nearly missed him going.

“Kylo!”

With a grumble she stood and went to the door ready to follow. But she was distracted by the pale blue blanket lying just outside the doorway.

She picked it up, holding it close, inhaling the scent of wool deeply for a moment before looking out to the trees.

He’d found it, and brought it back to her. She hadn’t even realized it was gone...

Rey tossed the blanket onto the shelf and quickly went out to the garden, scanning the the forest she knew so well, looking for anything that might be amiss.

Back and forth she watched until the rustle of some leaves towards the river grabbed her attention and she was off.

Running over the bramble, the sound of his heart was the trail she followed.

But, there was another.

A quick, fluttering sort of beat which made her own race as she closed in on them.

Down the small incline she slid with ease, eyes fixed on Ren and a stranger engaged in the tense dance before a fight.

The smaller man was quick, like an insect buzzing around the king, his skinny sword slashing and dicing though he could not make contact.

Kylo had a dagger but nothing more and Rey felt the incredible need to protect him.

Without hesitating, she let the lighting fly from her hands and struck them both to part them.

The men fell away from one another and she quickly advanced.

Nearly blind with rage, Rey moved to strike again with the intent to kill this time, but the would be assassin flung his rapier across the clearing.

She was quick, but not quick enough and caught the edge of his blade along her shoulder.

With a cry she stumbled grabbing her arm, but she was too angry to stop and marched on closing in on the man who jumped, ready to lunge at her. Instead, his leap was stunted by the brutal punch of Ren’s dagger through his gut.

Kylo held the man there, the toes of the assassins shoes just barely touching ground as he balanced painfully on the blade.

Kylo held his body up by the shoulder as he spoke. “Why did Snoke send you?” He demanded through a sneer.

The man’s face contorted with agony, he shook his head slowly before turning to look at the king.

Blood spurted from his mouth, spraying over Kylo who turned his head but never let go. He gave the man a push with the knife making him groan horribly.

“This is not a kill.” Kylo said, dark eyes dancing over the smaller man’s face. “Answer me, and I’ll let you live.”

The man raised his head, slowly, unexpectedly smiling, his teeth red as he locked eyes with Rey. “You can not defy the gods” He said, his jaw clenched tight. “You will see”

“How did you get in?” Rey asked walking close.

“You can not defy the gods” He said again and tried to laugh only to moan loudly, tears streaming down his face.

“Kylo, finish it.” She said sickened.

The man was nearly panting from the pain, his hands shaking and his head turned with difficulty to see the king once more. “He knows, he knows all. And you…will…return…to him.”

Disturbed by the mans' warning, Kylo held him there as he tried to make sense of it. He searched the sweating, bloodied face until Rey’s hand slipped over his that held the blade and began to push.

Coming to his senses, Kylo glanced down at her, realizing what she was doing. Not wanting to burden her with it, he quickly twisted the blade and the man went limp.

He lowered down with the assassin, laying him on his back and pulled his dagger free, wiping the blood on the man’s clothes. Not just clothes, robes. This was a priest.

“He had some skill with magic, that’s why Snoke sent him.” Kylo said, studying the face that he did not recognize. “He knew there would be few capable of reaching a witch and he needed someone who could do not only that, but deliver the stone as well.”

Rey stood there listening, holding her arm. She felt violated by the intrusion. Disgusted that this man had been inside her home. He’d broken through her protection spell, Snoke had seen her and threatened her… it made her head spin.

“Is that why you came?” She asked, shaken by the endless barrage against her today.

Kylo pulled his gaze from the dead body and looked back to Rey. “I thought I sensed it. Though now, I’m not so certain. His magic isn’t strong enough to use the force in that way, not over the distance. Still, he has enough to make him aware of our connection, and I was afraid he would do —exactly this” He said nodding down.

“You left your throne to warn me? You could have sent a messenger.” She said.

“Would you have listened?”

Rey rolled her eyes and shook her head. “Of course not.”

“You’re bleeding.” He nodded towards her shoulder.

She shrugged it off. “I’m fine, just a scratch.”

“Let me see” He said and sheathed his dagger as he stood coming to her.

Reluctant at first, but moving slowly, Rey gave in when he pulled her hand away.

“I’m sure you’ve got something to bandage it. I’ll do it for you.” He said holding her arm lightly.

“I can manage” She insisted.

“But you don’t have too.”

She scoffed at this and rolled her eyes. The anger towards him was still there and she was struggling to contain it. Even when looking into his eyes she could feel it crackling at the surface.

Kylo wisely let her go and raised his hands in defeat. “Forgive me or not, I had to come Rey. I trust no one with the things I love” He looked at her just as he had before everything had gone to shit and Rey could not stand it.

“Kylo please….” She turned away, still gripping her arm, though it was her heart that bled and ached.

“Rey, I won't pretend the threat of Snoke was the only thing traveling with me on that long ride from Bespin.”

“It doesn’t matter.” She said and started to walk away.

“Rey.”

She kept going.

“Rey, turn around.” He said.

Her eyes went wide with the tone of his voice, but she kept going.

“Let me see.” He pleaded gently and she felt her legs betray her and slow.

Hanging her head, she knew it was done. At some point during all of this he’d seen past the cocoon of her cloak.

Turning slowly, she stood shaking a bit and looked up at him.

“Rey…"

The way he said her name.

She shut her eyes and let the sound of discovery and surprise touch her heart.

Kylo left the dead priest and walked up to her with the heavy steps of a man overcome — petrified by shock. His eyes were fixed intently on her. No, not on her, on her belly.

Though not fully expanded, she showed the curve of the six months spent growing his child.

His face was a blur of emotions so strong she didn’t dare speak. It seemed cruel to say anything to him after finding out so suddenly.

When he finally looked into her eyes, she just waited. What would he say to her now? Only the fates could know if he would choose anger, hate, or heartbreak…

“A baby...” His voice was so light.

She gave a nod. “Yes.”

He let out the breath he’d been holding and stepped back, his eyes going a bit red as they fought the immediate tears. He struggled to find the words, but when he did, they stung her deeply. “I sensed it, your fear. I thought you were afraid of Snoke discovering you, but —it was me. You were afraid of me knowing. You tried to hide it from me?”

“Yes.” She said swallowing the rock of emotion in her throat.

“Why?” He begged stepping close again. Rey felt trapped, stuck between Ren and tree at her back.

“Because a child should be raised with love, and not fear.” She said with conviction.

“You think I wouldn’t love my own child?”

“I think you might, but you also threatened me. You broke your oaths, your promises… you broke my heart.” She said bluntly, her voice cracking as she felt the pain of it all over again.

He stood a little straighter and looked down at her for a moment to take in her words. The silence stretched on until he spoke, “That was never my intent. I am sorry.”

Rey saw the way he needed her to believe him, how that passion for honesty simmered as hot as his temper. But it could not be enough, not yet…

And then Kylo did something she had not expected. Slowly, so nervous his hand trembled, he pulled off his glove and began to reach forward.

She flinched, wanting to slip away, but she was cemented in place, subconsciously arching her back ever so slightly, presenting her pregnancy to him with a strange anticipation for what it would feel like when he did finally touch her again.

The heat of his large hand was so intense Rey shut her eyes, letting the feel of him reach deeper than just her skin.

He palmed her stomach, his long fingers pressing into the surprisingly hard curve, then drew back, letting them brush over the peak of her belly before gliding under to cradle and hold the weight of the baby inside.

Rey felt the tugging at her heart and a fluttering in her occupied womb. She was nearly powerless when he touched her so gently, when he stood so close. She could feel the man’s energy radiating from him like a burning flame and she bit down on her lip, turning her head away as she held the tears inside.

Kylo’s bittersweet smile was enough to break her heart all over again. He lowered his forehead to hers and took her by the waist. “A baby” He whispered as though theirs were the first in the world and the very idea of it was impossible to believe, but here she stood, her stomach round and real between them.

She cursed him under her breath for existing at all… him and that gentle voice that was so dear to her, or had been… no she thought with a hesitant smile. It still was.

Standing in the quiet beauty of her forest, the danger that threatened them only moments ago seemingly forgotten, Rey let go of her anger and allowed the reunion be a happy one.

She gave a laugh, just a quick release of the months she’d spent grappling with feelings for him and the need to cut him from her heart completely. Nodding against the press of his head she silently acknowledged it, as if saying yes, ‘look at what we’ve made’.

Their smiles mirrored one another as expressions joy.

Struggling to remember why she’d ever left at all, Rey tilted her head up. Nervous and unsteady as a first kiss, she let her lips touch his for a fleeting moment.

Kylo went rigid, as though the gesture were more shocking than the pregnancy, but before she could pull away, he pressed his mouth to hers.

It was a strange meeting of lost love. One that felt familiar and welcome, but also frightened her.

She exhaled against him, her breath a rush from her nose with a moan and he pulled her close as though he might consume her. His hand pressed to the small of her back, the other cradling her face.

She could feel the way he was careful, how he controlled his size to be gentle with her body. To be so cared for, and so delicately handled made her feel all the things she’d forgotten about him.

This was good. Better than she’d imagined it might be, but no… no. Her swallowed moan became a word.

“No” She mouthed and pulled away, longing to kiss him again the moment they were parted in spite of her lingering anger. But she was stronger than this.

“No” She shook her head violently as she remembered herself and all the reasons why she’d promised to never give in to her ridiculous heart again.

Rey leaned back, grabbing at her mouth, dragging the kiss from her lips “This can not happen Kylo….it can not be!” She snapped, realizing what she’d just done and slipped away from his attempt to hold her.

“Rey!” He tried but she would not look at him, and each time he moved to touch her she jerked away, cradling her injured arm. “Rey! Will you just —fucking listen to me!” He shouted as she started for home.

“I will not!” She spun to face him again. “You, Snoke, that man… None of you are welcome here! My life was fine. It made sense, it was quiet. Until you came and tossed it into chaos. I won’t let it happen again!”

He hung his head.

“I thank you for coming to me, to warn me, I do, truly. But Kylo please, leave me to my woods, just as you said. You have the twelve kingdoms, why must you choose mine.”

He looked up, his hair falling over an eye as he glared at her. “You ask me that now? With my child inside of you?”

“You didn’t know before.”

“No, but I do now, and that changes everything”

“No, I’m sorry but it changes nothing. I want no part of this, and this time, I mean it. I will not be fooled by your sad eyes, or your kiss. Your heart can not be turned. You, King Kylo Ren, can not be turned and I will not subject myself or this baby to the heartbreak that is loving you.”

He stood, watching her go.

His natural inclination was to start destroying everything around him, but he had learned much from his years spent letting his anger rule him. And now, this was not so much anger as it was disappointment in his own actions that pushed the woman he still loved so deeply away, and deservedly so.

He found himself worrying over her arm though it was just a small cut, but the idea of her bleeding and alone made him anxious. It was that need to take care of her, after everything he’d done, all the king wanted was too keep her safe, to protect her. Her and his child.

Dear gods —a child, he thought roughly raking his hair from his eyes.

He’d been wrong in thinking the presence felt was Snoke. The old man was not strong enough to propel himself across the space between Alderaan and Niima, and most certainly not Bespin. The seeing stone was proof of that. No, what Kylo had sensed was simply the life of his own child, formed and growing inside of Rey…

The assassin could have killed them both.

With a shaking, sorrowful sigh, defeated for now, he turned and looked at the body of the dead man.

Snoke was growing reckless, bold in his attempts to keep the king under his control. Ren wondered what move he would make next and went to pick up the priest.

Dragging the man onto his shoulders, he went down to the rocky shore and crossed the shallow part of the stream taking the body much deeper into the forest. He would not bury him near her home.

By the time Kylo was done, his hands miserable from digging at the earth with no more than a thick branch to aid him, the sun had started to set. He crossed back over the river, and staggered through the trees.

Once he came near the hill that led to Rey, he spotted the little plume of smoke from her fire in the distance.

Resigned to letting her be, the king trudged past, keeping to the crest of the hill so as not to be seen by her and continued on to make his way back to the village.

“Kylo, wait.” Rey called out.

He stopped and found her standing near her garden.

She looked like a ghost, her hair wild about her face, her small belly round and beautiful, pressing against the fabric of her dress.

“Come,” She nodded, her once fiery voice calm. “You need food —and perhaps a bath.” She said, a little flicker of kindness in her eyes that pulled him in.

Refusing to hope for any more than what she offered, he came down and silently followed her inside.

*

Rey slid her hand over the curve of Kylo’s head, watching the water run over his shoulders, the soft trickling loud in the quiet evening.

She sat on a stool behind the wooden tub in the garden and found herself smiling at his back, beautifully muscled, as white as the cloth that lined the wood, his black hair, slick against his neck.

He was busy rubbing himself with the little cut of soap, working up a lather to rid his skin of the assassins blood spray.

“You’re always covered in blood, have you noticed?” She asked with a little grin.

He laughed and kept scrubbing.

Rey shook her head, amused in spite of not wanting to be and for a while she was content to just sit and watch.

Missing him had been an understatement. There were nights when she would sit under the stars certain the cleave through her heart would kill her. And perhaps it would have, if not for the strength of her own tenacious will to live, and the love of her child. There were times though, that the idea of laying down and simply letting the darkness take her was a comfort. Anything to ease the pain, anything to rid her mind and body of the loss that held her bound so tight, she could scarce breathe.

To have the cause of all that hurt here now felt surreal. She never thought their paths would cross again, visions be damned. Until today he’d been lost to her.

As Kylo reached over and sat the soap on the grass, Rey watched the droplets of water run down over his shoulder, dripping along the flexed curve of each muscle as he moved. He pulled his arm back in and calmly brought the water up with his hands to rinse the lather and Rey sighed, looking off to the trees as she spoke. “Kylo,” She said his name with all the weight that came with loving him. “I can not say that I trust you. You… broke… something deep inside of me and I can not trust it to mend, but in time, perhaps.” She peeked over at him, noting the way his broad shoulders had gone stiff, as though he were holding his breath. “I don’t know what I need from you to allow you back in, but I —want to— let, you in?" It was hard to speak her mind for the first time in her life. She did not appreciate the lack of vocabulary to sum up how she felt, but this would have to do for now, it was all she had. "You came back here to warn me. That means something. Not enough, but something. You must understand that I have spent every day hating you, while loving what you’ve given me.” She looked away, her hand resting over her stomach. “That learned hate can not be forgotten so quickly. But, if you can accept that I have nothing more for you now, then, I would like it if you stayed. Not here mind you, but, in Niima, until I have more to give.” She waited for his reply.

The king turned to see her, water sloshing out onto the grass. “I will do, whatever you ask of me.”

Rey quickly looked into his eyes. She saw his desperation, and his determination. A hesitant smile twitched over her lips and she reached out pressing her palm to his cheek for a few precious seconds.

He would, she knew without a doubt, do just that.

#kylo ren #rey of jakku #reylo au #reylo fanfic #reylo ao3 #medieval reylo #reylo #surprise baby #sad kylo ren #pregnant rey #reylo romance #reylo medieval action #the force is magic

[reyloyal]

Stronghold~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 9

warnings and summary - masterlist

Chapter warning - manipulation of young Ben, violent nightmares

A healthy fear of the unknown is a good thing for a child to have. Those who understand the dangers of barreling headfirst into uncertain situations tend to live long, fulfilling lives.

Ten year old Ben Solo cared little for the concerns of longevity and health, so long as the sweet taste of adventure could be had.

When his peers would cower or run back to their mothers in the face of danger, he would charge ahead with the sort of wide eyed enthusiasm that worried the adults around him.

Sprained, broken and bloodied parts never stopped him. The healers would set him right and the boy would be off, exploring and fighting until his next injury.

Grinning now as he ran, Ben felt that invincible delight as he went careening down the castle halls, the sounds of his playmates following close behind to spur him on.

He liked leading the charge. Even if they had to do as he said, being the sons of his family’s royal court and all, he liked to think they followed his commands because he was good at giving them.

Their wild shouts and hollers rang out behind him and filled the prince with a sense of reckless overconfidence that other children were drawn too.

He ran past his mother’s Ladies laughing at their scowling faces, happy to tease the women as he passed with his entourage cheering him on before Ben took the boys down a back stair and dark hallway that stretched for much longer than they'd been expecting. Finally, they came to a heavy set of double doors.

“Where are we going?” One of the boys asked as Ben slowed.

He glanced back with a grin and pushed through to reveal an open-air walkway that connected the many occupied wings of the castle to this one.

No one came here anymore. The stones were worn and uncared for, leaving gaps to see the ground so many feet below them. The ivy was growing up the walls and along the stone banister of the wide bridge.

Ben himself had only discovered this abandoned section of the castle in a dream. When he woke with the path etched in his mind, he knew it was real, though he decided to keep that fact to himself.

The prince walked out into the sun, followed by his hesitant companions.

He scanned the walls of the east wing, searching as he caught his breath.

At the other end of the bridge were double doors identical to the ones they’d just come through. These however were cracked and broken making them much more desirable than what he sought. But the dream had not taken him through that way. It had shown him something much more unassuming.

“There” Ben pointed across to a little door one would hardly notice if they weren’t looking for it.

The door was made of the same pale stone as the castle and though it was not meant to be completely hidden, he knew as soon as he spotted it, this was the sort of thing he’d be told not to go messing with if his mother or minders knew.

“Whats there? I don’t see anything.” The Duke’s son Wald was always good at complaining.

“Just follow me,” Ben said and led the way. The four boys did as told, not wanting to seem like cowards, though silently they wondered what degree of trouble they would get into for listening to the prince again.

At the wall, Ben reached out, sliding his hand along the gritty stone. This was it, he knew it. With an enthusiastic effort, he pushed the door, but the thing would not budge. “Come on, help me!” He ordered and soon lots of dirty hands joined his and began to push.

With a combined shout to build their strength, the boys gave it their all.

In reply an ancient rumbling vibrated up their arms as the stone door slowly swung open.

A cool, stale air rushed up like the breath of ghosts escaping towards the light of day, tussling the boys hair.

Wide eyed with wonder, Ben smiled. This was just as he’d dreamed.

A strange sensation, unlike anything he’d ever felt before sparked to life at the boys’ center, like a connection to something dark and wonderful. It was a call that felt as familiar as the voice of his mother, but cold and not all together safe. It was thrilling.

One of the boys named Aldous went running with a scream that made Ben chuckle.

“Anyone else too afraid to follow, go now.” He said and glanced over his shoulder looking smug in the way that only fearless ten year old boys can.

All but one went running off.

“I want to see!”

Of course Finn stayed. Ben smiled down on the face of his best friend, as eager and excited as his own.

“Come on.” Ben said with a renewed spirit, happy for the company.

The two of them crossed the threshold, stepping onto the small landing which lead to a rounding stairwell.

The descent into the dark seemed to go on for ages, until the effect of seeing nothing more than steps and narrow walls became dizzying.

At last the sunlight faded and they found themselves in near darkness.

When Ben began to the worry the dream had steered him wrong and he felt the heat of fear in his arms and legs, the steps came to an abrupt end and the boys stopped, standing very close to one another.

“It’s too dark, did you bring the torch?” Ben asked.

Finn nodded. “Just like you said to,” He replied and turned away, reaching into his pants happy to be rid of the awkward stick.

Finn’s father was a commander in the army, he taught his son many things. How to quickly start a fire had been one of them and Ben was happy for the brilliance of his friend.

Once Finn managed to light the torch, he held the fire high and the two boys stepped forward, letting the hidden chamber be revealed.

It was a strange open space, completely empty or so it seemed, with ceilings so high, they disappeared into darkness. The room also had a pale yellow glow about it from the fine settling of dust over the ground.

“Look” Finn whispered pointing with the torch.

Ben peered across the room until his eyes adjusted and he saw.

A statue nearly twenty feet high rose up. He felt his mouth go dry and his heart race as he stepped back, bumping into to Finn who was so stunned he didn’t notice.

The robed figured loomed over them, overwhelming the boys to the point of running away if they weren’t so curious.

The eyes of the unknown statue were cast downward, their hands strangely placed, hovering above one another, as if holding an invisible circle.

Ben did not recognize the person or the gesture at all. He had no notion of who they were meant to represent, but he had a strong sense that they were here for protection.

It was incredible, but what lay at the foot of the statue made him gasp in surprise. Again, the dream proved itself.

Ben motioned for Finn to follow with the torch and the boys went to the effigy.

There were two wide steps all the way around that Ben walked up, already knowing what he would find.

Looking down on the ornate covering, the carved face of the king greeted him, asleep in death, his marble broad sword held in his stone hands.

His face looked so familiar that Ben knew at once who it was.

“What is this place?” Finn asked from below.

“The true burial site of my Lord grandfather.” Ben whispered.

Finn gulped. “ Anakin?”

Ben nodded and reached out touching the false blade. “They said no one knows where he is laid, but I knew it was here.”

“How did you know?” Finn asked.

Ben looked at the likeness of the man he’d heard many stories about. “I sensed it. Like he wanted me to come.” He said, his voice light.

Finn stepped back and for the first time felt a shiver of fear. “Maybe we should go. We’re going to be in a lot of trouble if anyone finds us here.”

“I won’t, I’m the prince. My mother is too busy to care and I don’t know where my father is.”

“Your tutor will tell. You’re supposed to be learning history right now.” Finn scolded.

“I am” The prince said and smiled, running his hand over the face of his dead grandfather.

“History, has much to teach us. Just not in this way.”

Both boys gave a shout and jumped away from the tomb, turning to find of all people, high priest Snoke standing in the shadows.

Ben’s heart pounded in his ears, but when he saw the holy man he calmed. “What are you doing down here priest? You scared us both” He said catching his breath.

With a sly smile, the priest stepped out of the dark and approached the boys. “I think I should be asking that of you, your highness. This is not a place for a prince. Come, let me take you back.” He offered motioning towards the stairs.

“Will you tell my mother?” Ben asked looking up at the old face as he and Finn passed.

Snoke shook his head “I will not, but you must be more careful. People do not like snooping, nor do they appreciate the uncovering of old secrets.”

Ben smiled as they walked back up. “You knew him didn’t you?” He asked

“Yes”

“Was he really as terrible as they say?” Ben wondered with youthful enthusiasm.

Snoke laughed as he followed them around the curve. “It is not my place to say, that is for the gods to decide”

“The gods don't exactly give us answers priest” Ben said with a smirk.

Snoke slapped the boy in the back of his head, not to cause real harm but enough to embarrass him and cut his ego down a bit. “Mockery is a sin.”

“Forgive me” Ben mumbled rubbing his head, ignoring Finn’s snicker. “But, sometimes, I think —I’m a lot like him, if what they say is true.”

“In what way?” Snoke asked only mildly curious.

“Well,” Ben looked up at the winding steps and spoke freely “I can feel it. I don’t know exactly what it is, but when I’m angry I feel this sort of thing… inside. Like I can throw the person who makes me mad down to the ground without touching them. That’s how strong the feeling is. I heard my grandfather could raise a man up off his feet with one hand and choke him to death in that same hold. So, maybe I’m like him.”

Snoke stopped on the steps, the wheels of his mind turning quickly until the boys realized he was no longer following.

“Finn” The high priest called.

The boy turned, his smooth brown skin glowing in the sunlight that had managed to come down through the open doorway.

“Go on back to your studies. I’ll speak with the prince alone.”

Finn glanced at Ben as if worried but bowed and said goodbye.

Ben watched his friend trot up the last few steps and disappear. Turning back to the high priest, he felt a strange sort of warning come over him as Snoke came uncomfortably close.

Indignant frown furrowing his brow, Ben leaned away. “What is it?”

Snoke stopped as if realizing he put the boy on edge and smiled.

It was never easy to see the old man’s scarred face twist into a look of happiness. He was so much better at scowling but Ben was used to him. He’d known the man his entire life.

“I’m going to ask you something my prince, your honesty is required as lying to me is the same as lying to the gods.”

Ben nodded, swallowing hard.

“Have you ever reached out, and moved something with your mind?”

The boy looked away unable to conceal his unease.

“It’s alright” Snoke offered and stepped down a single stair so as to not crowd the child. “There is no right or wrong answer”

“Yes” Ben confessed. “I can and it’s very easy.” He answered choosing pride over shame.

Snoke nodded. “For some it is. Has no one spoken to you about the things you can do?”

Ben shook his head.

“Oh, my poor child. You must be very confused.”

Again Ben shook his head no. “I’m not, I know what I am, just not how it happened.”

Staring into the bright eyes of the prince, Snoke quietly let his mind reach, let his own inquiry prod the childs’ untrained mind.

For a split second he was one with Ben, and the power he felt coursing through the boy was as abundant as blood.

Shocked but skilled at keeping his emotions quiet, Snoke smiled… the chamber had tried to show him, but he wouldn’t listen. Now he could not look away. This boy truly could be the one.

“You mustn’t tell anyone,” Snoke whispered opening his eyes.

“What’s wrong with magic?” Ben asked as though the priest were wrong for suggesting it.

“Oh, nothing of course,” Snoke said casually “ As you know, the holy men of the temple wield it. And the kingdom has a rich history of king’s working with a mage at their side. But those were all people with —natural talent” Snoke decided to see how easy it would be to mold the boy.

“What do I have?”

“Well, my child, it’s not exactly the same for you. Yours is of an unnatural abnormality that occurs sometimes. None in your family have magic, but the darkness latches on to those with a similar spirit that it can work through. But do not fear, you’ll learn to understand it once you’ve come to the temple for training.”

Ben’s eyes were wide as he listened. It seemed to hurt the boy to hear that he was merely an instrument of things he could not control. “I want to come now!” He snapped. “I want to understand it! I want to know why it chose me!”

“You must stay with your parents until you’re thirteen.”

“My grandfather went when he was nine!”

“Your grandfather was an extraordinary man.”

The boys eyes narrowed on the priest “I can be like him.” He said with the deep resolve of a much older child.

“Calm yourself Solo, you must not forget who you are.” Snoke chided.

“I am like him! I’m just like him!” He shouted and Snoke felt the push, invisible but strong. The boy would throw him down the stairs if he was not careful.

“Ben!”

Both priest and prince looked up at the bright doorway to find Han standing there, looking about as angry as any parent would.

“Don’t say anything about this.” Snoke hissed as Ben started up the steps. “They won’t understand like I do.” He added and watched the prince glance back at him confused. The seed had been planted.

“You get enough of that at temple don’t you son?” Han asked once the prince was on level ground. He pulled Ben close, wrapping his arm around the boys shoulders. “Keep the righteous sermons to Sundays.” He tossed down to Snoke, who stood glaring up at the obnoxious knight.

“Sorry” Ben said as they went back across the bridge and laughed as his father gave his hair a hard tousling. “But, I hate studies with my tutor. Father, they are the most boring waste of time.”

“Oh?” Han laughed as they came to the doors of the west wing. He turned in the threshold to look down at the prince “You just haven’t gotten to the good parts yet.” He insisted with a stern finger in the boys face, his kind eyes betraying his attempt to scold his son.

Feeling the swell of love and relief that all children feel when realizing their parent is on their side, Ben grinned and stepped to follow Han, but the doors shut before he could go through.

“Father?”

He stopped and looked around, shocked to find himself standing alone. The feeling of emptiness took hold of him as though Han had never been there at all.

Turning back towards the east wing, Ben froze, so overcome with fear his mouth opened to scream but his voice was gone.

Han was there again, standing on the path, silent and unmoving. A bright red spot of blood bloomed as it spilled from his heart, expanding to soak the cream shirt he always wore. His face was ashen, dead already as he reached slowly for help.

Taking a step to go to him, Ben was stopped by the words that echoed in his mind.

“Control your fear. Control your heart. Turn your hurt to anger and strike down your enemies.” Snoke whispered his demands into the boys ear, the pain of his knife-like hold that griped Ben’s shoulders making the boy gasp in horror.

Kylo opened his eyes.

The sight of hay and the hint of sunlight between wooden boards disoriented him until he remembered where he’d slept last night.

Sitting up, the king rubbed at his temples with thumb and middle finger, sliding his hand over his face physically trying to wipe away the dream.

Memories of factual events had been mingling with nightmares while he slept, which wasn’t often. It made those rare moments of rest troubling, but he was thankful for the few hours he’d managed.

With a deep sigh, the king opened his eyes again, realizing he wasn’t alone.

Two little heads with two sets of large, curious eyes were watching him from the ladder propped against the ledge.

He stared at them for a moment, until one felt brave enough to come up the rest of the way.

It was the girl. She climbed onto the hay loft and stood out of harms way but near enough to speak. “I’ve never seen a king sleep in a barn before.” She said.

“Have you ever seen a king?” He asked mildly irritated.

She nodded. “Yes. I saw you once. You had a woman with you.”

Kylo showed no hint of the agony in his heart.

The boy joined her and smiled. “Papa says you’re going to leave today.”

“I am”

“Can I come with you?” The boy asked with the thrill of adventure sparkling in his eyes, much like a young Ben Solo might have.

“No,” Kylo answered.

The boy scowled and looked down, kicking at the hay.

“If you want to eat before you go, you should come now, mama doesn’t care who you are, if you’re late for breakfast you don’t get any.” The girl said and turned her back to leave him.

The boy lingered for another moment, but jumped when his sister called for him. Soon the king was alone again.

Kylo sat for a moment listening to them run off then reached and grabbed the small dagger he’d brought along instead of his sword and quickly sheathed it at his hip.

With a groan he went to the ladder and climbed down, stretching his sore body once he stood on the solid floor.

He might ache from the long night spent on hay and wooden boards, but he was still thankful for the farmers kindness.

After feeding his horse, he crossed the yard to the cabin and went inside.

He and the farmer gave one another a nod of mutual respect and the mans’ wife tossed another plate onto the table, her cold eyes and solemn expression making her views on his stay quite clear.

Nonetheless Kylo thanked her and took the empty seat next to their baby perched in its own high chair.

The room was quiet.

The children watched him and would silently giggle while eating their breakfast until even he could not keep a straight face.

“Forgive them. They’ve never eaten in the presence of royalty before.” The wife said with a tight smile over her shoulder. She was still mixing the oatmeal in the pot.

“I’ve never eaten in the presence of children.” He said glancing at their little faces.

“Never?” The boy asked.

“Not even when you were a little boy?” The girl added suspiciously.

Kylo took a bite of bread. “I was born like this.” He said with a mouthful.

The children snickered.

“Crown and all.” He added, raising his brows and smiling.

The farmer looked up at his wife who stood over the stove glaring down at the king.

“Where exactly did you say you’re going?” The farmer asked.

Kylo chewed quickly and looked down the table at him. The baby reached over and tapped the kings arm, hitting him as if he were a drum.

“I didn’t” He said, Unfazed by the baby’s treatment and the man understood his need for secrecy.

“Should we be expecting war?” The wife asked and finally sat down near her husband.

Kylo looked down at his food for a while and imaged this family dead, the bloody images horrific as he’d seen before in other kingdoms along the way.

He would not let it come to that. “No.” He said and sat up straight to look at her. “I must see to something —someone, very special to me. But I have not stopped being your king.”

“Never knew you were.” The farmer replied and Kylo’s eyes darted up, fixing on him.

He glared at the man until he could no longer pretend to be confident in his authority.

Kylo blinked, looking down with the sting of shame. “Calrissian was a good man, and a good king. I wish I’d been smart enough to learn from him. I will do what I can to fix my mistakes.” He said.

The farmer looked over at his wife, their silent exchange missed by Kylo. The room was quiet again until they’d all finished eating.

Helping clear the table was simple enough, though it was painfully obvious the king had never so much as considered assisting with chores a day in his life.

The children continued giggling and playing around him and the baby cried unless Kylo held it which pulled a genuine smile from the wife’s down turned mouth. She said to be trusted by a child or a dog was a sign of having a good soul. The children and animals can sense it, she insisted. Kylo was not inclined to dismiss her compliment, odd as it was.

As the morning wore on, the king worried he would never leave these people if he didn’t guard his heart and be on his way.

“Horse is ready.” The farmer said a while later as he led the stallion out to the yard.

Kylo sat on the step into the farm house, holding the baby, while the girl stood in the doorway, smiling at the king the way a girl her age might and the boy tried yet again to touch his dagger, but the king was too quick and tapped his hand in warning every time. Amused but ready, Kylo squinted against the sun knowing it was time to leave.

Rising up, the two children followed him, sad that he was leaving.

“My wife put in some bread and cheese and a little jam for you.” The farmer said tapping the heavy sack tied to the saddle. “She’s a harsh woman, but her heart is as soft as her oatmeal.” He said and smiled.

Kylo thanked him but felt a sense of loss as he handed the man his child and mounted his horse.

The two older children ran along side, waving until he set the animal to a steady gallop leaving them behind.

If he ever forgot to come back to rule, he would remind himself that people like this were his to protect, and he would do well to return the kindness.

#reylo au #reylo fanfic #reylo #medieval reylo #kylo ren #reylo ao3 #reylo romance #kylo ren is king #reylo angst

[reyloyal]

Stronghold ~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 8

warnings and summary- masterlist

Part II

Chinook: Capital City of the Southern Kingdom

**

Try as Kylo Ren might, after all the years away from his home, after all the blood spilled by his own hand and that of his army —at the cost of sanity and love — he found that there was no joy to be had in the conquering of Bespin.

Years, the man had spent sacking smaller kingdoms as he made the slow, crawling advance towards that distant southern prize. And yet, even after defeating the troops in the ambush and killing their king, Kylo saw the sparkling city as nothing more than a reminder of the regrets and painful truths he’d acquired in getting here.

The triumphant journey into the city had been a solemn one and he found himself reflecting on it often as he walked the halls of the palace alone.

He and his soldiers had been met by the people as they'd approached the outskirts of the city. It seemed all had come to see for themselves, the king who had taken their kingdom.

The crowd lined the roadway, covering the pale green hills that led to the city. He could still remember that grey morning, and how the only sound was that of the mountain wind— its moaning howl following the dark victory parade.

From his high mount, Kylo had looked from one bleak face to the next and saw young and old alike of every status standing side by side, united in their collective hate for this one man.

He could hear their vengeful thoughts as he’d focused on one dark silent gaze, and then another. The people were like a mirror reflecting his own nature and the memory of that ride would go on haunting him for days.

On entering the castle, Kylo and his men had been met by the the former king’s small council who went to their knees without hesitation. Not out of some instant devotion to the man, but in an attempt to keep their heads.

The advisors, aides and diplomats thought it best to welcome the new king with an array of festivities to appeal to any kindness the man might have. And as the days went on, each overdone gesture became more miserable than the last.

During an evening feast, a week to the day of the usurper's arrival,  the royal court filled Ren’s newly acquired halls as they’d been told to do, but they did not want to be there, they did not love him and they never would. He’d broken the law of the land, slain men on neutral ground, and the people would not soon forget such an act.

They mourned for their true king. They wept with his wife Tendra, the former queen who Ren had so far spared. Day and night the sound of grief filled the halls with the wailing sour note of death. It clashed painfully with the efforts of the court musicians during the ridiculous festivities as a dismal reminder of King Ren’s failure.

Unable to stand the sounds of their misery he’d stopped the charade, ordering the palace emptied.

Calrissian’s family was carted away the next morning to the small island just off the coast, where they would take their villa home as a permanent residence, far from Ren.

After such an abysmal start, he’d spent nearly three months working to establish a new political and religious system similar to that of Alderaan’s thriving one.

Hux and the Knights of Ren (as the people had taken to calling them) had been very busy weeding through the noble houses, rooting out those loyal to the Calrissian reign. These devotees were separated from the ones who would pledge fealty to whatever king kept them in wealth and titles while the loyalist were stripped of theirs.

No longer duke and duchess, nor lord and lady. They were told to earn such honors under their new ruler, though it was clear to him they never would. And his harsh tactics would win him no allegiance here among such proud people.

And so, Kylo would walk the halls, looking up at the banners that sported the sigil of his order, remembering how once —what felt like a lifetime ago— he’d actually enjoyed seeing the former house-colors fall to be replaced by the black star lined in red.

He used to revel in upending their institutions replacing them with his own, but now, it felt as though the shiny veneer of his rulership had been scrubbed away, revealing the ugly fact that he had gone through and taken and replaced, just as Rey had said he would.

She’d been right and he hated her for it, or so he insisted on telling himself.

Kylo would wake with a mantra of hate in his head, directing it towards the woman for not only revealing the truth to him, but for leaving him too, and yes, he’d told her to go, even threatened her, but the pain in that awful moment after killing Lando had scared him enough that he feared what he might do, simply because he had no idea how to control it. His magic was still so new to him, and after Calrissian’s confession, he felt it raging like a brilliant red flame at his core. He could not let her stand there and become another casualty of his lifelong war.

So, he hated her, and he would tell himself the lie until it became truth. Until he no longer saw her face in the crowd, or her eyes in the lingering glances of the young women at court —until the sound of her voice stopped echoing along the halls of his memory.

In his worst moments, not even the lie could stop him from wanting her and the king would lay in bed, hoping she would come to him when no one else was there to see how devastated he truly was. He so desperately wanted to confess his mistakes to her. To make sense of the years he’d spent believing a lie that changed everything.

He would rise, restless in the dark, and go to the window begging her ghost to haunt him, to torment his black heart… she never did.

Rey was all but lost to him now.

“My liege,” Hux began timidly, one grey morning. He eyed Ren’s untouched breakfast. The king is unwell, he thought with a sigh of disappointment if not a little irritation. “I believe it would be best if I continue on here instead of returning to Alderaan at the end of the year as we’ve discussed. I know you wish to keep me at your side but I fear that things here are still… unsettled.” Armitage stood, waiting for the expected outburst, as had been the way of their interactions since they arrived months ago.

But the king just sat, slouched at his table, dark circles under his eyes as he starred out the window. He seemed to be looking for something.

He always had the distracted look of a man searching these days. Hux found it to be insulting. They’d achieved everything! And wasn’t Bespin and rulership over all twelve kingdoms what he’d been looking for…

“Can you hear me? Majesty?” He leaned a little closer wondering for a moment if the man had finally given up and succumbed to the bad humors that tainted his blood.

Ren finally nodded and looked over at Hux —his only friend. “Do you think I failed?” He asked, his face blank.

The chancellor narrowed his eyes and glared at the king. “Failed at what, my liege?”

“This …all of it.”

“Well, if you consider taking the largest kingdom outside of Alderaan without loosing more than fifty men a failure, then… yes?” He said and snorted a laugh.

Ren grumbled, shaking his head. “Thank you Hux, you may go.”

The man bowed though he stood worrying in the doorway for another minute.

He never did reach out to Snoke about the witch, as he’d come very close to doing. In the end, he hadn’t need for the high priests help with the unexpected problem. It seemed she’d slipped away after that victorious day of negotiations —though she’d taken the kings spirit with her.

Hux was relieved to be free of the woman’s presence, especially now that she would have been walking the halls of the castle, well on her way to calling herself queen. Still though, she’d left them with a husk of a man, withdrawn and hallowed out.

Hux had instead decided to ask the holy man for his advice on the matter of what to do with a broken king.

The wise old priest had since advised the chancellor that, in Rens’ fractured state, Hux would need to make choices for the man. He was to watch over him as one would a child who is a danger to himself and others. If need be, Armitage should keep the king in line until they returned to Alderaan by whatever means necessary. Snoke insisted that their very lives depended on it.

Hux wasn’t sure how far he would have to go to save Ren from himself, but looking at the pale visage of the once bold king, he felt in his soul that it would take much more than he’d been willing to admit. I do care for him, Hux thought feeling a strange sort of concern for the king, and he would hate to play a role in his fall. But if it was for the good of the empire…

Hux squared his shoulders and pressed his mouth into a line of pity and concern, watching from the shadows.

It was sad really, for a man to be so sick over a woman. First love, now heartbreak —what was he to do with a king so consumed with petty emotions.

Without answers, Hux turned to leave Ren to his misery.

Some weeks later, the king, still in this strange state, informed the chancellor that he would be going off to ride for the day. He claimed he needed to be alone and that the fresh mountain air would do him some good.

Hux scoffed at the idea knowing the man was just looking for relief from his hurting heart and —oddly enough, remorse over taking the kingdom.

Of course Ren had not said as much, but Hux could tell. There had never been a time when king Kylo Ren wasn’t pleased with a good sack; the grand prize had been easiest of all. But something was amiss. At first the chancellor could not place the kings dark mood beyond the loss of the witch, but slowly he began to see that there was more than an aching heart nagging the king.

Ren insisted on going off to ride alone, but Hux would not chance anything during these unstable times. He would take the high priests words to heart and follow his guidance.

He’d recently uncovered a surprising discovery. Apparently there was a rat in their large, beautiful nest; a little spy, whispering secrets to Snoke. Now that he knew, Hux would not miss the opportunity to use the very same tactics. This was after all for Kylo's own well-being, he told himself again and again.

So Armitage bid the king farewell wishing him a peaceful ride and bowed deeply before rising to watch the ruined man sulk down the empty corridor.

As he turned to get back to his own ever increasing load of responsibility, Hux felt a strange sensation —like a sense of doom as he had yet to experience during his time as chancellor of the king.

He dismissed the chill as no more than a morning draft coming down from the east and tugged the collar of his tunic just a bit higher.

*

Rodrick sat in his room, enjoying the completion of yet another golden sunrise on this beautiful morning in Bespin.

The capital city of Chinook had lovingly been called Cloud City by its inhabitants for years. And as the young squire looked out beyond the open balcony to the glowing sky, the illusion of being swallowed whole by the vast size of it made his senses tingle.

Cloud city indeed, he thought and smiled up at the rows of fluffy white and that deep yellow sun.

What a glorious gift the gods had given them.

Rodrick sat back in his chair feeling content in a way that most squires were rarely afforded. But his diligence in serving the king had been rewarded thanks most in part to nothing escaping the chancellor. It was Hux who recommended Ren raise the boy up, give him something to be proud of. He’d seen Rodrick’s hard work and loyalty and felt it time to advance the young man’s rise to knighthood.

Sitting at his own desk in his own splendid room, the budding swordsman grinned. He’d never been more proud, or more certain of his own greatness.

The sleeping whore in his bed stirred for a moment grabbing his attention, and he watched her (her long brown hair spread on the pillow was not quite wild enough and her eyes were just a shade too dark to look exactly like her, but she’d been the closest so far) making sure she’d fall back asleep before casting his gaze down to the letter that lay on the table before him.

If the sunrise view from his own balcony had not made the young man happy, the words addressed to him certainly had.

After hearing nothing from the high priest since he’d sent that last bit of information about Ren’s ability to control minds, he worried he’d said too much.

But, as he finished scanning the letter over, he smiled knowing that Snoke had not abandoned him yet. Now, he had the instructions he’d been waiting all this time for.

You’ve done well in your service to the order. You understand now that the king is not safe. The kingdom is not safe. You must continue to keep a close watch on him. If he should falter at all, you have the authority of this holy order and the gods to protect the kingdoms from the downfall of the king.

Dark magic is a terrible thing, to be ruled by one who possesses it, even worse.

Take great care.

Rodrick had been blessed by Snoke himself when he was named squire of the king. He would not let the man down. He would do what he must as a faithful and loyal servant of the gods and blessed order of the Sith.

He picked up his quill to write.

The events of which I wrote were not the end of it. The witch is gone, as I wrote when we arrived here. But the king has not recovered from the loss. He seems unhappy in all things. I believe he needs to devote himself to our forgiving gods for he is not the man he should be. I think, he is still bewitched and needs a holy cleansing. I am nothing but a servant, but I will do what I must to ensure the survival of our great kingdom.

Rodrick gave a firm nod to himself. Yes. The king had strayed far from his righteous path these last few months. It would be his duty to help bring him back. Through Snoke’s guidance and the power of his own faith, the ambitious squire would no longer let the king be seduced.

The knock on the door made him jump, and the whore moaned in her sleep.

“Yes?”

The door opened to reveal none other than the chancellor himself.

“My lord!” Rodrick stood at attention, bowing to the man.

Hux walked in, stiff chin held high as always and glanced over, noting the sleeping woman and her slightly familiar look… “Young squire.” He said studying the woman a little longer before turning his attention to Rodrick “I have a task for you.”

“Yes, of course my lord. How may I be of service?”

Hux looked down at the boy still in his sleeping clothes and smiled the sort of knowing, devious look that Rodrick found himself drawn to.

“It has come to my attention that you’re very skilled in keeping secrets. Please!” Hux held up his hand when Rodrick opened his mouth to defend himself “Do not bother, I know everything and I am not here to do anything other than ask for your assistance.”

Rodricks mouth clamped shut, he stood up a bit straighter, he looked into the eyes of the kings most trusted man and saw the truth and possibility for furthering himself. With a smile he bowed his head once more, slowly this time to show that he understood and was more than willing to listen.

“It would seem our king is in need of looking after. You’re discreet yes?”

”Always my Lord”

Nodding with reserved approval the chancellor paused, realizing why he’d been looking at the woman in Rodrick’s bed. Peeking sidelong at the girl, he second guessed his trust in the squire, it would seem his infatuation with not only the king but the witch as well had begun to show in, interesting, ways. But then, who better to watch over the very man this boy so clearly wanted to be like “As I said, I have an important task for you” Hux said, his voice wary though his mind was made up.

Pleased to be chosen for anything, Rodrick was nearly glowing with pride.“I am as always, the humble servant of the crown. Please tell me what it is you wish me to do”

*

Deep into the forest Kylo dismounted and walked through the bright green overgrowth to the glass lake.

This was a place of natural beauty, its clear still waters reflected the sky and clouds with the precision of a mirror and the trees surrounding it were a deep green that rose up towards the distant mountain.

Stepping onto the shore, Kylo leaned forward and watched the many small fish, easily seen as they swam over the rocks below.

Feeling at ease enough to sit, he lowered to the ground and just listened, like he’d seen Rey do when she thought he wasn’t looking.

The king knew if he was quiet, and let the sounds come to him, he could tap into the unseen river that was the magical force flowing through their worlds, connecting them.

At least he hoped that’s how it worked, as his decision to swallow his foolish pride and reach out to her had been decided this morning the moment he opened his eyes.

While his first angry thoughts were always of her, they were closely followed by a drowning sense of guilt that had plagued him daily since arriving as he knew Bespin would never be his in anything other than name.

He needed her now, and not because the damn woman still owned his heart, but because nothing was as it should be.

Kylo sighed. He needed her wisdom and her advice. He needed to hear it said in that commanding voice which scolded him so beautifully —he smiled shaking his head— she would not let him sit around feeling sorry for himself. She would tell him to focus and reach within…

He shut his eyes and tried again, but found his thoughts drifting instantly.

He’d finally let Calrissian’s words settle as truth some time ago, though it was nearly impossible to accept. Kylo saw how it all made more sense than anything Snoke had ever told him, but believing Lando did little to ease the pain that his revelation caused.

It was like loosing his father all over again.

Han Solo had never been the best, but he was better than most. And though Kylo had spent his youth wishing the man would either stay and love him, or leave for good, he’d never imagined he wouldn’t have the options.

The assassin had taken that from him.

No. Snoke, had taken that from him and denied his magic, making Ren the perfect puppet for a most cruel master.

Unable to focus he looked out across the lake and wondered when and if he would ever find the courage to tell his mother.

Another thing to regret —his loss of a relationship with her.

He shook his head angry with himself. She was the best person he’d known until Rey, even with her faults, but the division between them went deep and he was unsure of how to mend it.

Lingering thoughts of Leia brought him near tears, and he was not here for that.

Shaking off the sadness, he exhaled deeply once more and shut his eyes a final time to find Rey.

Time passed slowly as he sank deeper into the earth. An awareness of the smallest forms of life crawling in the dirt below, to the massive working lungs and heart of his horse grazing in the pasture became as clear to him as his own physical form and deepest thoughts.

As his mind flowed through time and space, he let the current move him along until at last, he felt it —a nudge in the dark.

It was like swimming through air and hitting a rock, not so hard that it hurts, but lets you know you’ve reached the shore.

“Rey”

She gasped, and he knew she could hear him.

“Please, don’t be afraid.” He begged.

He could hear her breaths, quick and light in his ear. Why couldn’t he see her?

“It seems I haven’t mastered this as you have, but please, let me know that you are there.” He sat blind, listening, waiting until finally she replied.

“I see you, king.” She answered and his heart stopped at the sound of her voice. “It seems you’ve learned enough to attempt the bond." She was quiet for a moment and he worried she'd rejected him. "You're near water, someplace calm. And yet …you’re sad. Very sad." She said, her words slow and breathy with surprise.

Ren fought the urge to open his eyes, too scared to loose the weak connection and pressed on.

“Rey, would you allow me to see your face? Just once...”

There was a long pause that kept him waiting in the dark.

“I shut the door on my past as you instructed.” She said and he could hear the tears in her voice, her anger and hurt were still so strong. “My life is no longer on the same path as yours. No. I do not permit you to see me.”

“I can not do this without you. You know that, You said you saw it clearly. Us, together on the throne.”

“That was before.”

“Before what?” He asked already knowing.

“Before you proved to be the person I refused to see. I was so blinded by the love felt for a man who existed only in my mind.”

He felt the sting in that and clenched his fists though he stayed calm.

“I didn’t know then. I see truth of it now.”

“It should not have taken Lando Calrissian’s dying words to make you see that killing him was wrong. How going back on your word so completely, was wrong. That choice was yours to make and you chose poorly.”

He felt a tear stream down his cheek though he kept his eyes shut.

She still hated him, after all this time. But of course, the wounds he’d left her with would take so much time to heal.

Still, the king longed to see her face just once. He dug in and reached, tapping into the force within, traveling through the dark and for a fleeting moment, as though a door had been flung open, Kylo saw her turn and look him in the eyes.

She was as beautiful as ever. The sight of her face, haloed by her wild brown waves and her piercing eyes of brown and green and gold was enough to make him break.

She stood, glaring at him over her shoulder, her soft mouth set in stern disdain as she judged him harshly. Her anger was stunning to see, though the vision of her was not clear.

Her face was focused but the rest was a blur, and she turned away as if frightened and hiding something from him. He pushed forward trying to understand why she would turn from him in such a way. It was not a natural thing to do, even for a woman who hated him and it sent off signals of warning.

His face twitched as his senses tingled. There was more to the eerie feeling than just Rey’s anger… he could —when he focused— feel a strong energy interfering in the connection. He was seeing her through a filter. Like their once clear window into one another’s minds had been tarnished somehow.

“Enough!” Rey shouted, yanking him from his thoughts.

And then she was gone.

Kylo felt her shut him out, violently slamming the door he’d forced open.

He brushed the tear from his face, blinking back to consciousness and sat still for a while, focused on what it was that troubled him about the encounter.

Yes it was distressing to know that she still harbored such hate. He realized quickly that he should have let the woman be -left her alone as he’d shouted at her that night… What a fool I was, he thought with the pain of emotion sharp as a rock in his throat.

Swallowing tears he had no time for, Kylo tried desperately to understand what else was wrong, but he could not place the feeling.

He’d simply wanted to plead for a chance to make amends, but instead, he’d discovered a disturbance.

The fear that took hold was crippling as he realized the only reason to feel this way would be the presence of another. Someone else with the strength to infiltrate their communications. Someone who would know that such a thing could be done in the first place and someone that would want to.

There was only one who would try, he thought, his furrowed brow casting a shadow over his eyes as he reluctantly acknowledged him.

Of course. Snoke.

*

Like a loosed arrow, the king set his horse to a furious gallop, flying across the open land, spurred on by a sense of urgency and fear for Rey.

He rode past the watchful eye of the villagers along the outskirts and scared the inhabitants of the city as his black stallion went wildly through the streets of Chinook.  The moment the pair passed the castle gates, Kylo dismounted, letting the horse ride towards the waiting stable master.

The king ignored the fearful servants as he made his way up the steps and through the halls, hoping for nothing more than to reach his rooms without being disturbed.

What would he do? He wondered, his mind racing and panicked as he went. What could be done about Snoke watching her from this impossible distance? And what new power must he have uncovered to gain the strength to do so?

Kylo stormed down the hall sending the few nobles allowed back into their apartments shuffling from his path. They hid in the shadows or pretended to converse so as not to draw his attention, all of them ignorant to the kings complete lack of concern for them.

The guards stationed at his suite opened the double doors, and he burst through the second set only to reveal Harold waiting in his dressing room.

“My liege,” He squeaked with a bow. “Forgive me sire, Hux informed me that I am to dress you for the royal audience today.”

“What?” He stepped back, scowling at the nervous servant.

Harold swallowed hard, stepping forward and bowed again. “You’re to hold a royal audience with the common folk today my liege. I am to dress you.”

Kylo blinked down at the boy, confused for a moment until the sound of Huxs’ monotone reading of his weekly schedule played in his mind and the king rolled his eyes.

Knowing it wasn’t Harold’s fault, he held in the urge to throw the page boy to the ground and instead exhaled and relaxed his shoulders.

When there was no reply, Harold dared to look up and found the king waiting, his arms out, the look on his face expressly informing the boy to get on with it.

Harold hopped to attention and quickly set about disrobing him.

With his riding clothes gone, Ren was dressed in the purposefully humble garb that would show the people he cared, or at least create the illusion.

Once finished, Harold stepped back to admire his quick work. Black layered over black as always, from the finely stitched trousers to his shirt and vest and jacket. Most shied from the lack of color, but when the king wore it he wore it with confidence.

Pleased, the page took the crown from the small silk pillow where it sat and placed it on the kings head.

The gold metal picked up the subtle thread work throughout his jacket and made the lightest flecks of color in his eyes shine. He was ready to greet the people.

“Thank you Harold.” Kylo said and the boy bowed, watching as the king who seemed a little more calm now turned and left the room.

Kylo kept his swear laden grumbling to a level only he could hear as he nodded greetings to his small council who fell into step behind him.

It seemed the threat of a mad warlock would not stop the pressing duties of the day, nor would the concerns of the people wait. They came as they always did to beg an audience before the king with their usual procession of grievances that would last hours.

Kylo entered the grand throne room, his arrival announced and a hush fell over the people.

Irritated at the disruption caused by the inescapable, the king stalked through the parted crowd.

As whispers rose to the eaves, all eyes focused on the arresting sight of the man who brought a strange sense of melancholy with him. Rumors had begun to circle that all northern men were miserable and brooding. Though the most ambitious women rose up on their toes to catch a glimpse of him as he passed, pretending to hate the man as much as the Lords and Dukes, but the flush in their cheeks and hidden smiles gave away the secret that the king was a dangerously handsome man without a wife.

As blind to the women as he was the rest of his new court, the king went through in callous silence, his mind scarce holding onto the current reality he found himself in and he quickly took his place on the throne. With a single nod he instructed Hux to begin.

Kylo sank down in the seat, it’s width and height well suited for a man his size, but it never felt quite right. He imagined it was simply the guilt that made it impossible to settle.

Resting his elbow on the wide armrest, leaning his temple to his finger tips, he forced himself to focus on the proceedings, but it was no use. As quickly as he sat, his mind was drifting off. It did not help that the grand throne room was so light and calming, it felt like sitting in a dream. The pillars and archways were carved white marble and the windows were better fit for a cathedral. They kept the space feeling open to the skies above and the paintings that hung along the walls were of Bespin’s own pastoral beauty. But on this day, there was no amount of idealized scenery that could take his mind from the events of the morning.

A farmer approached to ask the king for a release from his taxes this year due to a bad crop and Kylo waved him off, agreeing to it though he hadn’t really listened.

He could not stop worrying for her.

Since that incredible night that saw them defeat the mage together and Ren realize the truth of his power, he’d been struggling with how to deal with Snoke. Now that the man was spying on him —on her —Kylo knew something had to be done.

He still lacked proof that Snoke had been the one to take Han Solo from him, but what he did know was that years of Snoke’s deception and manipulation had left him feeling only half the man he should be and Rey had been the one to make him whole.

He would not abandon the witch now. She could continue hating him later, after he’d saved her life.

The plan for these early stages of his empire, was to stay here for a year before returning to Alderaan. But now, given this turn, he would need to leave much sooner. The only difficulty was not alerting Snoke to his departure.

Kylo sat contemplating all the ways he could go to her without simultaneously putting the woman in more danger, but it seemed there was no other way than to keep it secret.

“My liege, are you sure that’s wise?” Hux asked from below the dais. Alarmed by what sounded like a reply to his thoughts, Ren sat up, glaring down at the chancellor until he heard the farmer clear his throat.

Realizing his own paranoia -warranted or not- was making him restless. The king nodded in response to both the farmer and his own plans.

Hux gave Kylo a particularly disagreeable look from his little table where he kept a record of all the goings on. “The man has not paid for two cycles now, it seems he’s known for trying to evade the taxes.” Armitage said, reading over an old note next to the man’s name.

Ren glanced across the busy throne room and nodded. “Second chances should be afforded everyone, not just kings” He mumbled and Hux sighed but moved on, calling the next person forward.

This one wanted his title of Lord reinstated and was wiling to work with Ren to ensure it would happen. As the man droned on about his former accomplishments, Kylo began to devise a different sort of plan. Not one for his kingdom, but for her.

Never mind how reckless it all was. He knew. He was fully aware of the personal consequences he’d possibly face for going through with what he had in mind, but what choice did he have.

Send soldiers to protect her? Men she would kill before she could hear their reason for being there? Send Rodrick? The boy might have a small wealth of useless information, but he was a bit strange if not somewhat suspicious in his behavior as of late. Yes, he would be a knight and was a good swordsman, but he had a certain zealousness that Kylo could not stand and he guessed Rey would fair better on her own than with the squire fussing over her.

The king went though a quick and upsetting list of men who would only fail the woman he loved and loves still. There was no way around it, he said to himself again. To keep her safe he must go to her. She was strong, capable, even dangerous to her enemy, but she had never faced one like Snoke before and Kylo knew the priests’ capacity for evil as well as his own. Both far outweighed Rey’s connection to the dark magic she’d inherited. He must go to her and bring her back to Bespin where he could keep her safe.

The king stared into a painting of a lightning struck tree hung near the west enclave and remembered the feel of Snoke’s intrusion. Like a knife, slowly burrowing into his skull. And what else did the warlock have in mind, he wondered ignoring the eerie feeling creeping its way up his spine.

His correspondence with Snoke had been direct with little to no affection as of late and Kylo suspected the priest was aware that something had changed. He must be growing desperate to gain the upper hand— to find out exactly how much his former protege knows.

Afraid your secrets have been exposed? Kylo thought and imagined Snokes’ face during their inevitable confrontation.

“Shall we have him attend this evening highness?” Hux asked.

Kylo looked down at the men awaiting an answer and nodded with little to no idea what he’d just agreed to, but by the look of joy on the soft face of the former Lord, he’d just reinstated the mans title. With a heavy exhale, the king sat up straighter realizing he needed to put on an act. He could not make them suspicious as he’d easily decided there was nothing else to do but leave in the night, dressed as a common man.

He would ride without stopping if he could, though it would not be easy. Jakku was close to a week away, but he would take his own horse to ensure speed.

Glancing down, he watched Hux writing in his ledger.

Armitage will rule in my stead, he thought, already forming the letter he would write to the chancellor in his head. Hux was full of lofty aspirations, surely he would jump at the chance to parade around as king for a few weeks. Kylo held in a small laugh. The chancellor was a fucking nuisance but he might be of more use than the king gave him credit for.

Feeling his worry for Rey ease a bit with the prospect of seeing her soon, Ren let the anxiety filled worry give way to excitement for seeing her again. However the sense of shame for leaving took hold just as quickly. He did after all care for those he would leave behind, even if they cared nothing for him. The kingdom included. But to be a good king, he had to fix this. Hux and all the others would understand —in time.

*

In a rather surprising display, the king allowed those in attendance enjoy their dinner that night.

The musicians played. The wine and ale flowed, and the people laughed around him for the first time since they arrived.

Standing in the middle of the dining hall, watching the guests he did not know and the ones he did make drunken fools of themselves, he smiled and thought that perhaps, if she might forgive him, they could stand here together.

As Kylo put on the act of a man recovered, he heard the hushed approval for the return of the king they knew, and for a moment he was sorry to leave them.

But, when a southern priest passed by the open dinning hall and his eyes met those of the king, Kylo was reminded of why he must go. Chinook was a melting pot of religion and knowledge, so naturally the Sith held a small temple here and on hearing one of their own had taken the throne, they'd begun to make themselves known to the king. This man had been lurking about since Kylo's arrival, but he felt no kinship with the stranger, he'd not even learned the priests name.

They stood glaring at one another, and the king realized what it was about the man that set him on edge. He had the same cold stare as Snoke. That sort of animalistic detachment one might see in the eyes of a predator. Eyes just as dark and cruel had been been watching him his entire life.

“I do not like that priest.” Kylo told Hux as the chancellor approached. The two men stood in the middle of the raucous feast staring right back at the quiet man.

Hux, completely drunk on the delicious regional red laughed and shrugged. “One priest is like the next.” He said turning his back on the holy man and patting Ren’s chest “We aren’t meant to like them Ren. Just obey them. Or risk the wrath of the gods” He teased with a smile and turned to resume the night.

Distracted by his chancellors humor, Kylo eased a bit and watched Hux go off to flirt with the stunning daughter of a Duke. When the king did look back to where the priest had been, he was gone, but the feeling of always being watched and always controlled, lingered, spurring the king towards a choice that would change all their lives forever.

*

That night, dressed in his most simple shirt and pants, Kylo pulled the hood of his heavy cloak up, concealing his striking face and hair.

Mounting his horse under the cover of night, careful not to wake the stablemen, the king snuck quickly away from his own kingdom.

The feeling was surprisingly exhilarating. In leaving the city behind, he felt the spark of life returning to his cold heart. It was unexpected, but the rush of night air across his face made the man smile.

Yet as he neared the edge of Bespin’s territory, Kylo slowed his stallion, feeling a nagging sense of worry for leaving.

With a quick glance over his shoulder he took in the distant silhouette of the castle on its hill, knowing he would come back. But when, he could not say for certain. Three weeks? Maybe more. Hux would read the letter and continue leading the people as he had been for some time now, and he would do it well.

Reminded that he’d done the right thing given the unusual circumstances, Ren turned away and set his sights on the road ahead, clicking his tongue to start his horse and the journey.

“My Liege. Where are you going?”

The familiar voice echoed across the dark hills halting Ren so abruptly, he could only growl with disdain as he turned the horse to face Rodrick.

Focusing on the fully armored squire, mounted on his own horse, Ren raised his chin with curious authority “Rodrick. What are you doing here? Have you followed me?” He asked almost amused. The boy was most serious about his duties.

“It’s for your own safety my lord. Please, return to the castle with me.”

He let out a blunt laugh and cocked a brow “You should turn back.” The king kindly advised. “And I, will do as I please.” He was surprised by this strange confrontation, but perhaps he was being too hasty. He knew his squire was worried for him, as was the entire court. Still he did not take kindly to any sort of suspicion being directed towards himself and he eyed the young man curiously… “How long have you been following me?”

Rodrick looked around, clearly uncomfortable with the truth, but he cleared his throat and met Ren’s gaze.

“Long enough to know that you’re in great danger if you do not return.”

“What danger Rodrick? Tell me.”

The boys eyes narrowed as he led the horse closer. “My king, I would not speak to you this way without the blessing of a higher authority first. But in this situation, I think it best that I speak freely.”

“By all means.”

Rodrick pulled the reigns and sighed. “You’ve been tricked my king. The witch has used her power to fool you into thinking she can be trusted. I saw you… talking, to her at the water this morning.” He paused to summon his courage and began to confess. “I’ve seen it all, my liege. Everything that you can do, and every time your magic grew more powerful, it was her at your side. She can not be allowed to corrupt you any longer.”

“Corrupt me?” He wanted the squire to say aloud what Ren now understood. “And why would you think she’d done that? Who put the idea in your head Rodrick?” He asked already knowing. “You’re just a squire, you did not come to this conclusion on your own…”

The boy winced at Rens insult but cleared his throat. “I can not let you go.” He insisted.

“You have no command over me.” The king replied in his calm way that set people on edge, even those that had been on the road with him since the very beginning. Rodrick’s nervous energy could be felt from where Ren sat. “There have never been orders like that given to a squire. And there never will be.”

“But you see, there were.” He answered, his eyes flitting up to meet Ren’s.

“And who gave you such an order?”

“The high priest, and the lord chancellor my liege.”

Ren rolled his eyes shut with the irritation. Snoke would be dealt with accordingly and in due time. But he felt sure that Hux was simply being Hux. So the king dismissed the aspiring knight.

“Go back.” He said wishing to put this behind them “There is no need for you here.”

“I can not do that my liege.” Rodrick insisted, and his tone held an edge of warning that Ren had never heard from him before. A spark of anger made the hairs on the back of his neck rise.

“You dare defy me? Go back,”

“I can not. I must protect you my king, it is my duty. The gods have entrusted me with a most holy mission.”

“Fuck the gods and fuck your holy mission. Do as I say and go back. Do not let them command you to your death.” Ren was appalled, he could not begin to understand how he’d missed this. His squire was clearly delusional.

“Where are you going?” Rodrick asked, his voice high with suspicion.

“What?” Ren laughed in disbelief. “Do not push me squire! You have served at my side since we left Alderaan…it would pain me to loose you now.” He warned.

However, instead of hanging his head and returning home as the king had expected, the boy reached his shaking hand and slowly drew his sword.

A wave of shock and betrayal rushed over the king.

“I act on the authority of the chancellor and his holiness the high priest Snoke.” Rodrick declared and began an approach.

Snoke, you fucking snake, Kylo sighed slowly. You'd take us all down just to rule over the ashes... With a deep groan, his eyes fixed on Rodrick, Kylo forced himself to speak. “Turn back!” He ordered not wanting to draw his own weapon, but the boy would not listen. He was blind to reason, having been fooled by the priest just as Kylo had been.

Is this what his devotion looked like? The King pulled a face as he wondered, somewhat disturbed to see Rodrick coming for him with wild eyes and the delusion of holy power behind his advance.

“Rodrick. Please.” He tried once, truly not wanting this to be his last moment in Bespin. But the boy was closing in and he could not let his own squire kill him out of a sense of pity. The damned fool was beyond pleading, so, it was with great disappointment and anger that Ren raised his hand.

It was odd for him not to reach for his sword, he noted, but something spoke to him —just as it had before.

The force told him what to do, and he simply listened.

The king focused and propelled his magic forward and grabbed.

Immediately, Rodrick dropped his own sword and clutched at his throat, his horse continuing to carrying him towards Ren with his eyes bulging and mouth open, desperate for air.

The king jerked his hand forward squeezing the neck of Snoke’s spy. He would silence the boy and send a message to the priest in the form of his death.

“Please!” Rodrick croaked as his horse came nose to nose with Ren’s. The king ignored him, holding him tight with that glorious, unseen power. His gloved hand curved with the imagined feel of Rodricks neck in his grasp, his anger raging.

It was insulting that these would be allies could conspire behind his back and think he would never find out. And for what? He wondered as he felt the boys strength giving out. To subdue him? Keep him from Rey? Take his own kingdom out from under him? Snoke and Hux might continue to work together, but they would do so with the fear of Rens’ retribution keeping them awake at night.

When the bones of Rodrick’s neck snapped under the pressure, the king let go, and the squire’s body fell from the saddle with a heavy thud.

He sat starring at the body of the boy who had fought along side him just as well as he’d helped Kylo with the trivial tasks that a squire must.

The mundane chores of life had been Rodricks crowning glory and Ren realized he’d taken The boy for granted. Had he been aware of his own squires true nature, the king could have placed Rodrick in a position more in line with his abilities. Unfortunately Snoke had seen his potential first and capitalized on it.

Kylo wondered what exactly the boy had told the priest and rightfully assumed the answer was everything.

With that he grunted resignation and dismounted.

Crouching down, Ren looked on the face of horror made by the boy he thought he knew. Poor, stupid Rodrick.

Quickly lifting the squire and with some effort, Kylo pulled him over his shoulders and started for the woods.

In time, he found a place to toss the body that would give him that precious head start needed to stay away from his own men.

This was still his kingdom, but it was clear that they did not trust him to lead it without the use of spies and secrets.

Fuck them all, the king said to himself and looked to the castle one last time as he came out of the woods to mount up again.

This day would mark the end of the young king as a war hammer, swung by the long arm of a false holy man.

He once said that his enemy was his enemy, he’d been wrong about who it was that night, but he would not make the same mistake twice.

He would go now, he would ride to Rey, reaching her before Snoke did. He must —for the first time— leave his life behind for the sake of another.

#kylo ren #reylo au #medieval reylo #reylo angst #reylo fanfic #kylo ren is king #will he ever learn #true love waits

[reyloyal]

Stronghold ~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 7

warnings and summary- masterlist

CW- violence, minor violence against female characters, death, heartbreak

authors notes: just wanted to say thank you to anyone one still here. The end of the year wasn’t easy for me and I had a very ambitious fic in another fandom to finish. Now I’m able to post the rest of this one in it’s entirety which I promise to do as quickly as I can!

“What is this place?” Rey asked, astonished by the sight as the party approached their destination.

Like a dream dropped from the sky, landing in the middle of nowhere, a structure of stone and ivy greeted the royal procession.

Squat in build, much wider than it was high, the unusual building looked very much like a single story castle. It’s identical east and west wings were split down the center by a single grand stair of the same stone and a large dome capped the open walled rotunda below.

From the western tower hung the banner of Bespin, rolling gently in the breeze. The east was bare.

“The neutral ground agreed on.” Kylo said looking at the building.

Rey could hear that even he was awed by this place and she wondered what the rest of Bespin must look like.

“Someone approaches. “ Hux said from his horse.

The group of nobles and soldiers watched in silence as the lone rider came up, a perfect line of dust left in his wake.

“Careful of their tricks my liege,” Agnon warned from behind them. “They are known for being a most untrustworthy people.” He grumbled.

Kylo heard his words but kept his eyes on the person nearing as they came into view.

She, surprised them all.

A stunning creature with brown skin and thick curls that crowned her head like a black sun, she wore a cream cape and dress, her white stallion as ethereal as she.

With a word she stopped the animal and looked directly at the king. “Welcome, King Kylo Ren.” She said lowering her head. Raising it again she smiled at the men of note he’d brought along “Chancellor Hux. Generals Agnon and Pryde.” She would look to each man as she said their name. “Welcome, young Rodrick.” She said with a softer tone, and then her sparkling, dark eyes looked to Rey and a little frown pressed her brow. “Forgive me, I don’t know your name, but you are welcome here.” She said and let her smile grow again, bowing once more for Rey.

The witch returned the gesture, entranced by the regal woman.

“I am Jannah, emissary to the king Landonis Balthazar Calrissian. I welcome you all in his great name.”

Kylo eyed the woman before glancing past her. “We requested a meeting face to face. Has the king forgotten to attend?”

Jannah smiled and shook her head, her poise so controlled it demanded respect.

“No, your highness, he has not forgotten but wishes you all to find accommodations here and rest before the negotiations begin.”

All heads turned to the king.

He stared at the woman until finally giving a nod. “Lead the way.” He said and she gave yet another bow before turning her horse to take them.

“Remind me, what do you know of this man?” Rey asked hardly moving her lips. She was feeling a twinge of nervousness and kept her keen eyes on the woman in white escorting them.

“Our kingdoms were friendly once,” Ren answered “But it seems the king is a devious bastard and the affection was lost years ago.” He said this with a small smirk that Rey noticed. It confused her to see him amused by his enemy, but perhaps he respected a king able to win the hearts and loyalty of his people while keeping would be usurpers at bay “I’ve heard my mother speak of him, but only to curse his name.”

Rey nodded, and her curiosity settled as they made their slow approach.

“Your father fought bravely on these grounds my liege.” General Agnon called from behind “They were made neutral after that very battle.” He said sounding very proud, and Rey glanced up at the king, surprised to find him so stoic at the first mention of his father she was aware of.

The party grew quiet when he did not answer.

“Please,” Jannah said stopping her horse before the steps. “Will you all dismount and let our stablemen care for your horses and take the soldiers to their lodging. I will show you to the rooms.”

They all dropped to solid ground, Rey accepting Kylo’s assistance with a smile.

“Forgive me, Jannah —I’ve never seen anything like this before.” She said stepping next to the emissary as they all walked. “Is this common? To meet in such a place?”

Jannah smiled sweetly and shrugged. “I would not say common, most kings would have you meet in a tent under the heat of the summer sun… Lando is a wise, considerate man.” She said and Rey gave an unsure nod, falling back to walk with Kylo.

“Rooms?” She whispered. “I have a bad feeling about this. Are you sure?”

“You have nothing to fear.” He answered quietly, eyes ahead as they climbed the wide stairs. “There are enough skilled swords here to see you safely away if it comes to that”

She gave a little smile, glancing up at him. “It’s you I worry about, and —maybe Rodrick”

He snickered and the generals raised their heads in surprise.

The king cleared his throat and shot her a quick look that made Rey laugh as they stepped onto the open landing under the dome.

“What a pleasant coupling” Jannah said with a soft smile as she turned them.

Rey and the king glanced at one another but said nothing.

“The rooms. Where are they?” Kylo asked dismissing her assessment and she extended her hand for them to continue on.

The long hall to the east was made of open air arches, just as the west, and Rey found the call of the birds and the trickling of the large fountain in the back courtyard to be pleasant beyond measure. “It’s like walking through a dream” She said to no one in particular, with the wide eyes of a woman who had never seen a building bigger than the inn of her village.

Kylo watched her adoringly but held back his smile as Rey practically spun down the hall.

“I will accept the complement on behalf of the king” The emissary said glancing back, her eyes bright with pride.

They came to the end of the walkway, stopping in the circular enclave of ornate doors.

“If you wish to stay together, might I suggest this room.” She said and opened the double oak in front of them all, revealing a light filled room with a large table full of food and drink. The open balcony at the far end led down to the gardens just outside; the scent of flowers, fragrant on the morning breeze.

“And for privacy, should you need it, there are three others rooms. If I might do anything to make your stay more pleasant, please do not hesitate to ring.” She motioned towards the chords hanging in the corners of the doorways that must have been rigged to sound a bell. “I will leave you now, but on my return, be ready to meet with his highness, King Landonis.” She said, her voice just a fraction deeper than it had been.

Kylo thanked her before the woman turned and made her slow retreat to the side inhabited by her own people.

“What a captivating woman.” General Pryde said just above a hush.

“My liege” Hux turned to the king, his face a bit more pinched than usual. “Might I suggest we stay together, we might stand on neutral ground, but it is theirs, on their land.”

“Not exactly. “ Rodrick interjected and they all turned to him. “This is an unclaimed stretch of land. Well, it is now. After the battle of which you spoke earlier” He nodded to Agnon. “The two armies agreed to keep it as a place without banners which is why the king built it this way. The flagged side sits on Bespinian land, we however, are technically nowhere.”

They all stared at Rodrick surprised but impressed.

“Thank you Rodrick.” Kylo said, frowning with pleasant disbelief at the boys knowledge. “Then it would seem we are safe for now. We all know the rule of the land, no matter which land it is we stand on. No blood shall be spilt here. I believe that would apply to this situation.”

Hux had that look on his face, the one of thinly veiled irritation. “Yes, but what happens when we meet on their land.”

“I don’t think we will.” Rey answered, her attentions on the people down the long hall.

It looked at though servants were busy brining out chairs and things to that large center space at the top of the steps. “No one shall have the upper hand.” She said and smiled at the king who nodded in agreement.

“Right. To our rooms.” Agnon said, eager to enjoy the large spread of food and wine in the common space.

The men followed him in leaving Rey and Kylo.

“Will you not join them?” She asked slipping her hand over his crossed arms. She looked up into his face, but it seemed his mood had darkened in the time it took to walk the length of the hall and now he would not look at her.

“Im…restless.” Kylo said, eyes fixed on the stone floor.

“I thought you felt it was safe here?”

“I didn’t say I felt unsafe, I just… I’m restless.” He mumbled and walked back into the hall, looking out to the fountain.

Rey joined him and slid her hand over his back. “What is it?” She asked “You should always trust your instincts.”

She waited patiently, taking a moment to admire the crown pressed onto his thick hair and the signet ring which highlighted his large hand and long fingers. Both bands of gold caught the light and shone like the sun.

He was looking out to the courtyard, so pensive in his thoughts; his profile reminding Rey of a painting she’d seen in the village church once when she’d snuck in.

It was of a man —some saint glowing with false power— whose face shared the same elegant lines and bold masculinity as Kylo’s. The king seemed to so easily take her breath away with his ancient, ethereal beauty, it was a wonder she ever did anything but look at him.

Rey smiled and looked away feeling a little twinge of shame for the way she stared, but with all of the traveling and fighting, she’d nearly forgotten he was more than a solider until this morning. When his page placed cloak and crown on him, the sight of Kylo like this reminded Rey of who it was she’d pledged herself to. And, sadly, of the difficulty that came with such a commitment.

Unaware of her innocent thoughts, Kylo dropped his gaze and looked down at his hands resting on the ledge.

His silent confession to her question was clear, but only to him.

This place —it reminded him of home. The stone was lighter in color, but the structure looked very much like the designs found in Alderaan, and hearing the generals comment about his father… “I need to be alone.” He said.

“Kylo wait, tell me what it is. Please.”

“I can’t.”

“Kylo.” She glanced back at the men who were eating and drinking now. “What’s happening? You seemed happy to be here. Now you look as though you want to turn back.”

He felt such a surge of emotion it was hard to stand next to her. “Stay with the men. I’ll be back”

“Promise you won’t do anything rash?”

“Go!”

“Kylo promise me!” She demanded and he snapped his head up to look down at her.

She was obviously terrified of what he might say or do which stung his heart and he reached over, laying his hand over hers.

“Stay with them Rey, I just need a moment, that’s all. I will not do anything to compromise the plan.”

“Swear it.”

“I swear” He said and she sighed.

“Alright, but, please. Don’t let your anger take control. You are bigger than your feelings. You’re in control of this —of all of it.” She said.

Kylo stared down at her, his face too pale, his eyes a bit wide. He looked as though he were trying desperately to keep something contained.

Turning as she reached for him, he stalked away, quickly heading down the hall.

Rey stood alone, watching him go, her concern for the man growing. She sensed it coursing through him. Some great conflict that seemed to slowly pull him in opposite directions.

“You shouldn’t worry for him.”

Rey spun to look up at Hux. She glared at the man before looking back down the hall. Kylo was gone.

“It would go against my nature not to”

He stood beside her, and the look on his face told her that he was not exactly certain of what to feel for the king either. She knew he cared. Under his stiff reserve the man was so similar to Ren, she almost found it amusing. They were like two sides of the same coin.

“This place has a history you simply can’t understand.” Hux said.

“With his father?”

“It was the last place he fought.”

“Was he killed here?” Rey asked.

Hux shook his head. “No, no he wasn’t….”

There was something in that statement but Rey chose not to push and turned to look up the chancellor. “Armitage.” She said realizing now would be her only chance to say this “I know you don’t want me here. I understand that I’ve posed a problem for you and your need to keep things in order, as I’m certain I bring nothing but the opposite. However I hope we can come to some sort of a tolerant understanding of one another.”

He raised his brows and looked down at her. “If you find yourself by his side when this is all over, you will have won my respect and my allegiance, my queen.” He replied with a stiff bow.

Rey felt a chill but managed a little smile. She bowed her head in return and watched as he left to rejoin the men.

Something was not right. She felt the dark forces rushing in from every corner and all she could do was steady herself for whatever may come.

*

“What does the young king have to say for himself?” Lando asked, standing at the head of his table.

The servants were busy setting up and he took the time to speak with his emissary in relative privacy. Lobot was sitting at the table as well, ever Calrissian’s loyal shadow, but he did nothing without the man close by, Jannah knew and respected this.

“Not much majesty. He is a quiet man with a —strong presence.”

Lando looked up at Jannah. “Easy” He said with a little grin “I’ve heard he’s set to wed the Hutt’s oldest girl.”

Jannah poured herself a cup of wine, waving away a servant. “I don’t think that will be happening” She said and took a drink.

Calrissian watched her. “What do you mean?” He asked adjusting the cuff of his sleeve out of habit.

“He indeed travels with the witch, it’s plain to see they are together”

“Ahh…” Lando stroked his salt and pepper mustache. “Well, I don’t pity the messenger.” He said shaking his head. “The Hutts are a ruthless family who care little for rules when it comes to crossing their family. What else? Did he mention him at all?”

Jannah looked up at the older man and smiled with a sad sort of regret for what she would say “No. My king he did not. But I heard one of his men make mention. I believe it’s too hard for Ren to talk about it.”

Lando understood and left the table to walk the length of the room as he thought.

Stopping before the open wall that led to the balcony, he drew back when the young king came into view.

He watched Ren go to the fountain and stand with his hands clasped behind his back. That was the stance of a man with the weight of an empire on his shoulders.

“I didn’t know what to expect when I learned of his advance. But it was not this.” Lando said softly and Jannah was there at his side.

“What do you mean?”

“Han and Leia’s boy is not known for his negotiation skills. I wonder, how much of this is him? A man can change, but it seems sudden.”

“Does it matter? If we come out on top…”

Lando gave a bitter sweet sigh. “We lost damn near half our army in that debacle. Bespin and its smaller villages must join or be destroyed, and I must give up everything to keep it all… I’m afraid no one wins in the end.” He shook his head, clearly sorry for the way things had turned out. “There is so much you don’t know, so much that hardly anyone knows.”

He watched Kylo, his back to them, never moving. “Only a few of us left alive know that boys truth.”

“Enemies or friends?” She asked looking up at the man who had taken her from her a humble life as a lady-in-waiting, to her position as emissary in just a few short years.

Lando laughed a little and looked down at her. “Sweet Jannah… who can say. Who can ever really say.”

*

“If you can hear me, you lying shit. I hope I make you proud”

He was trying. Just as Rey had done for him when they first met. He had no idea how to use the force in this way, but his hurt fueled him to try.

Kylo stared into the fountain water, ignoring the peaceful scene around him as he channeled his thoughts, propelled by his energy.

“I may sit on the throne of our empire when this is done. But at what cost. If I loose her….”

He was breathing too hard, his gloved fists clenched so tight the leather creaked.

Snoke would never hear. He was as far from this conflict as a selfish man could safely be, and good for him. If he were to walk up to the king, Kylo would kill him, no sword or power needed. Just the heartbreak and anger of a man still held by the words of a master manipulator who never cared and never would.

But I do… Kylo thought, the anguish ripping him apart. I care for them all, and for the future. I care for her and what happens when this is done.

Shutting his eyes again, he listened to the water pouring from the vase of the stone woman in the fountain.

I care too much and it will cost me, but I will do what I must to see this finished.

He opened his eyes and looked up at the stone face. The woman gazed down on her never ending stream, content and at peace with who and what she was.

It was a feeling he would never know, though he’d come close. Kylo Ren knew in his heart that he was not a man worthy of such an ending.

*

“It’s quiet here.” Janna said joining Rey in the gardens just outside of the common room.

Rey turned on the long stone bench and watched as the woman approached. She more floated than walked, and when she sat beside her, Rey inhaled her scent of fading juniper and honey.

“It is.” Rey said and turned back to the flowers “It reminds me of home.” She could picture the garden full of wildflowers and herbs that she kept just outside her back door.

“And where is that?” Jannah asked.

Rey stared into her black eyes for a moment. The emissary was sitting very close to her and Rey was drawn to the woman and her calming way. “Jakku. A little village called Niima.”

“And it’s like this?”

“No” Rey shook her head with a laugh. “No nothing at all like this, but the woods where I live most certainly are. I miss them, I miss that quiet life.”

“You never meant to travel with a king,” Jannah surmised. She knew how it was without needing to be told.

“No. Of course not.”

“What was it about him? Aside from the obvious, that made you want to join him on the road?”

Rey glanced at the young woman, not faulting her in the least for being attracted to him. “Well. I suppose it’s safe to say I felt a kinship with him, once we got past the worst of it. He’s a good man. Just… misguided.”

“The worst of it?” She asked.

Rey folded her hands in her lap and looked out at the endless fields and the trees beyond. “Many things about my life were not my choice. Kylo most of all. But, only at first. In the end I chose to stay with him, Not because I couldn’t walk away, but because I could not imagine going back to my forest when it will go on without me as it always has. Kylo however would not. And I think I’m not to proud to say, neither would I, not after knowing him.”

“Why does he need you?” She asked genuinely curious. “He is a king. The most successful in an age. His grandfather was the last to hold such a grip on the isle, and even he could not finish it.”

Rey looked at Jannah “His grandfather?”

Jannah nodded, her dark eyes fixing on Reys “You don’t know who his grandfather is?”

“No… is it some secret?”

“No. But the man was —notorious.”

“For what?”

“Lets just say, they share more than a hunger for power.” Jannah said leaning close.

“Rey.”

Both women looked back to find Kylo standing at the steps.

Rey stared at him wondering for a moment what sort of history his family had passed down to him. Perhaps his grandfather was the one with the magic. She would ask him later when they were alone.

“Excuse me, I think I should go.” Rey said and smiled at Jannah.

“I must be leaving too.” The woman said and stood eye to eye with Rey “It’s almost time.” She gave a graceful bow, turned, walked to the steps and paused to bow to Ren before ascending.

“Are you alright?” Rey asked going to him, her tone still thick with worry after his earlier behavior.

“I am.” He quickly got to the point “What were you talking about with her?”

Rey sensed his discomfort over her moment alone with the emissary, but she would not be muzzled. “Your grandfather actually.” She said in a clear voice. She was not the one with secrets to hide. “Why? You wouldn’t try to control me would you?” She asked with a tone of warning.

Kylo’s stern face slowly faded and he came close, sliding his hand around the back of her neck. “Of course not.” He said with a little smile.

Rey’s eyes closed at his touch, her soft moan in response to the kiss he pressed to her lips.

“Are you alright?” She asked when he pulled away.

His jaw clenched and he looked over her head, pulling her close.

Rey rested her cheek against the leather of his vest and shut her eyes.

“I am and I’m sorry about earlier. I am trying Rey.”

“I know” She said and reached up to put her arms around him. She leaned back to see his eyes. “You’re so close to everything you’ve ever wanted, just maybe not in the way you ever imagined. So, it’s alright to feel some conflict. But remember, I’m here. And, I’m here not just as your future queen, but as your friend.”

He smiled and held her face in his hands. “My friend?” He asked sounding doubtful if not amused.

“Yes” She grinned.

“I don’t think kings and queens are allowed to be friends.” He joked looking off to the trees. “Ruins the dynamic.”

Rey laughed and stroked his hair. “Then we shall be the first.”

He slowly looked down, his smiled easing as he lowered to kiss her one last time.

“Excuse me, my liege.” General Pryde cleared his throat at the top of the steps.

Kylo sighed with the call and pulled away, turning to see the man.

“It’s time.” He said and the king gave a nod.

Quickly he looked back down at Rey, and she grabbed his hand.

“This is the right thing to do.” She insisted once more and Kylo tried to look happy, but his failure to do so left a spike of suspicion in her mind that would not quiet.

*

When everyone had gathered, one of Calrissians’ guards led them down the hallway to the large marble rotunda were a table had been placed with more wine and food running down its' length.

Jannah sat beside Calrissian on his right, and Lobot to his left. The kings' dozen or so guards were positioned behind them, though none had their swords in a show of trust and hospitality.

Surprisingly it was not the beautiful location or the opulence displayed in the middle of nowhere, but the sight of the king of Bespin surrounded by his people that captured Rey’s attention.

He was older, still perfectly handsome, with soft brown skin, salt and pepper hair and eyes that dazzled with a knowledge of many things.

She found him to be charming before he could even speak, but certainly untrustworthy.

“King Kylo Ren.” He said with a slick smile for the younger man.

“Lando Calrissian.” Ren replied, his greeting tense.

The king of Bespin chuckled to himself before letting his eyes drift down to Rey. “And who have you brought with you to this, important meeting, young king?”

Kylo settled back, resting his hand on the hilt of his sword sensing he was being set up for a jape.

“Don’t tell me you’ve brought your woman to a meeting between men?” Calrissian laughed.

Rey glanced at Jannah who rolled her eyes and hid her smile. “You don’t bring a concubine to a negotiation!” He tossed his head back laughing louder. “Unless of course she’s a brilliant one! Now that is something.”

Hux cleared his throat “This, is Rey from the kingdom of Jakku, hailing from the village of Niima. Your highness” He delivered the introduction with a bow, surprising them all.

Calrissian began to quiet his laughter and looked her up and down. “Should that mean something?” He asked, mouth calming to a smile.

“Not to you.” Kylo answered. “Not all women are concubines, or even queens. Some are much more than that.” He said and glanced at Calrissian’s emissary to make a point, then back to the king.

Rey raised her chin proudly.

“But who she is is not why we’ve come” Ren said and Calrissian nodded with his palm up in offering.

“Please, sit.” He said, allowing the younger man to take his place first.

This was a good sign Rey thought, though she did not know the secret language of kings and their many nuanced ways.

Following his lead, the others took their seats, Hux at his left, Rey at his right, the generals flanking the three.

“So, why are you here?” Lando asked, and the two focused on one another. “I’m surprised you haven’t come in and finished the job after you made such a show of my army’s mistake.” He said with the irritated look of a man bested.

“I am curious” Ren replied. “Who thought it was a wise choice, to attack in the night? Isn’t that a cowards move?”

Calrissian was clearly bothered by the jab but ignored his need to react. “I heard you took his head with a single blow, seems a just end for a man who could so gravely miscalculate the enemy.”

“Your mage chose to attack at night?” Rey asked baffled. Apparently even a man of magic could be as foolish as an ordinary one.

Lando looked down at her, almost as though he was stunned she had a voice. “He did. Bakka was an incredibly wise man, but, it would seem that’s not all it takes to defeat an army with their own source of magic” His focus turned to her completely and she felt the heat of his observation “Tell me, Rey of Jakku. Where did you train?” It seemed his initial assessment of her had only been a ruse, a way to throw them off as he clearly knew who and what she was. “Not the temple of the sith, they only take men. Not the Jedi, they are long since dead in these parts.” He sat back and studied her face for a moment with a knowing gleam in his eye. “You see, I’ve heard there were marks left in the ground. Like that of white fire —lightning. Bakka was gifted, but not like that. His magic came from a pure place. It seems yours has come from —somewhere else?” His brow raised with the question, giving her a chance to explain.

Rey’s racing heart pounded in her ears, as she was put on the spot. But she would not cower. She calmed herself and settled in her seat. “I trained among the trees. Among the wild flowers, and the gentle river that flows through my woods. I am fortunate to know the ways of the ones like me who have come before, they have helped guide my —dark magic, towards the light. You’re right. Bakka did not possess my power, and you would be wise not to test it.”

The men were silent, staring down at her with looks expressive of their inner thoughts. Intrigue, fear, love. She was a reflection of their own silent feelings towards her.

Calrissian glanced at Ren then back to Rey.

Something passed between the older man and the woman —an understanding exchanged through a look. It became clear to Rey that Lando was a good king and he seemed to fully accept Rey’s formidable understanding of the force.

“You’ve got quite a mage at your side young king. Wise choice.” He told Ren. His eyes were still fixed on her as he gave Rey a bow of respect. “I only tease because I am in awe of you my lady.” He said in all sincerity. “You walk beside a well known king as though you should be the one conducting the negotiations. That’s not often seen in a woman, or man.”

Rey felt herself flush and lowered her head a bit to hide her smile.

Chancing a look at Kylo, she saw him trying his best not to beam too brightly, though the tiny smile in the corner of his mouth gave him away.

“Thank you majesty.” She said turning to Lando. “I merely sit in support of the alliance my king offers.” She said and found herself charmed by Calrissian’s endearing nature and truly looked forward to a kingdom united with his.

Was this what being a royal felt like? She thought it over, sliding her hands down the arm rests of her seat, sitting up a little straighter. Suddenly the title of queen seemed to matter. The might of her words, not magic flowed as it never had before and she reckoned with the possibilities of a conversation backed by authority. And this was only a small taste.

“I admit,” Kylo said looking at Rey. “I went about our union selfishly,” His gaze softened. “But when you see power like that, you do what you must.”

Turning towards Calrissian, his eyes went cold again.

“In spite of my ways, she has chosen to be here of her own accord. As have you.” His voice lowered as he addressed the king, setting aside the topic of Rey for the time being. “So, I ask you now, King Landonis. Will you give up your kingdom and keep your life, or will you try one last time to best an army you can not beat, backed by an unimaginable force.”

Calrissian rolled his eyes. His deep breaths gave away his intolerance for the cocksure young man not yet in his prime. Having been at this for much longer, he managed to keep his contempt in check. “You speak like a true Solo.” He said, and through his distaste he chuckled.

Rey glanced up at Kylo, curious about this name. Was it was his fathers? She was almost certain. So many references to him today… She hadn’t looked into Kylo’s lineage but it was known the kings of Alderaan chose their adult names, and she knew from word of mouth that his mother was of the Ogana line. There was no one else but his father left.

Ren sat like a stone in his seat, glaring at the king. “Don’t play sentimental games with me Calrissian, you’ll find I’ve little taste for it.”

The older man gave a slow shrug and Rey found herself liking him all the more for his refusal to placate Ren. Though she loved the man, it was refreshing to see someone so unfazed by him.

“You’re right, King Kylo. I am bested.” He said, arms out. “What am I to do?”

“Accept the offer quietly.” Rey suggested.

“Surender to me now and I will let you save your family.” Kylo said sitting up straight, ignoring Rey completely.

“A kind and just lord” The king replied with heavy sarcasm.

“Save his family? What harm should come to the family of an ally?” Rey asked, that sense of foreboding back. “If he is to stay on as warden of the southern kingdom, would it not stand to reason that his family will remain loyal to the crown that let their king live?”

Hux leaned forward to look past Ren and see the girl. “Allies? Do you mean those who would conspire against us?”

Her jaw dropped as she looked down at him, her face full of dread as she did not possess the subtle grace of war like Calrissian or Ren.

“No. I mean the people who we would save by establishing this peaceful union.” She replied, wondering with increasing fear was happening to the idea of a fiefdom.

“They will see no harm come to them, one king is as good as any other.” Ren said and smiled horribly at Calrissian.

The older man sighed and laced his fingers in front of him. “One last proposal.” He said with high hopes.

Ren gave a nod letting him speak.

“Allow me stay on —just as I was so sure you’d come here to offer. I will live as no more than an emissary to you, the king. Not a warden or lord, not even as vassal. Just a keeper of peace among the people who know me, and I will bend the knee to you. And they will know you as king, and call themselves subjects to their northern empire and know that the south is united with Alderaan.”

Rey smiled. He would give up everything to save his people. This was a man Kylo could learn so much from.

But her smile faded as she studied Kylo’s face while he sat thinking beside her.

His hesitation was a show, she could see that easily now. He had no intentions of listening to this man, nor had he ever. What hope and love had blinded her too this morning and even seconds ago could no longer stay hidden.

Something had gone wrong. But what? He’d been so certain this would work, he’d promised to try. To be the sort of man who finds a way outside of killing. To be a good king knowing she would be queen. For a moment Rey was tempted to pry into his mind for understanding, but she could not do that without everyone knowing.

The only thing she could recall from last night, was Ren walking back into the tent long after she’d fallen asleep. His unease today had been a warning that she failed to acknowledge. She’d told him to trust his instincts but forgot her own and she would pay dearly for such a lapse.

Rey glanced down at Hux. He was calm, but he was always that way.

Perhaps new information had been uncovered, she wondered. Something that would make an alliance impossible but, why hadn’t he told her?

“You?” Ren finally said. “You wouldn’t know how to bend your knees if I broke your legs, old man. You would slander my name the moment we left, making sure the people hated the sound of it. They would never be loyal to their true king.”

“No.” Calrissian insisted. “I would sit as mouth of the king —the distant hand, acting out the kings orders. Nothing more”

Jannah leaned forward to plead their cause. “Please my king, if you will just…”

“Quiet.” Ren’s clipped tone made the woman shrink back. “You’ll still hold your power.” He said to Lando. “In secret you will be their king and continue your rule. To what end? To form a better army that can defeat mine? Perhaps bide your time to seek a more powerful mage.”

“No, to do just as I’ve said,” Calrissian insisted. “Think of the possibilities of our alliance Ren. Think of what we could be!” He tried, though he had the look of one who had lost all hope. He looked at Kylo like he was no more than an angry young man, to weighed down by his own burdens to see reason.

Rey’s deep frown of confusion got Lando’s attention, and she would not hide it. This was not the king she would train, or guide or love. He spoke like someone else, like the words were not his own…Rey held in her fear, but the echo of one name haunted her thoughts.

Kylo pressed his finger to his lips as he considered Lando’s offer. He smiled, sliding his finger to his temple, resting his head as though he were relaxed. Slowly he looked to the king “It is a thought,” He said feigning agreement “But I’m afraid a thought is all it will ever be. You see…” Kylo dropped his hand and leaned forward in his chair, his positioning and energy tight as a wound coil. “There is reason to believe you’ve already begun an uprising. You would not stay on as some loyal servant to me Calrissian. Did you actually think me so gullible that I would accept those terms?” His face twitched with the angry dark elements of the force.

“Your own terms!” Lando snapped, a hint of his own temper and an awful sense of frustration seeping into his words.

Kylo looked away as if for a second he knew that what he was doing was wrong. As if causing the older man to fear for his life and kingdom shamed the young king, but the moment was short lived. “In a kingdom once divided, there can only be one king.” Kylo said looking off into the distance for a moment before turning back to Lando. “One king.” He shouted, his finger raised.

Rey jumped in her seat. His raw anger felt like a whip, lashing out against her heart.

“When the high priest Snoke pulled my head from the holy water of the temple, he said the clouds parted and the gods smiled down on his work that day, because that was the day he crowned the true king. I will not fail him, I will not fail my people. Yes —it was a thought” He repeated and glanced around the table at the frightened faces of the Bespinians. “But one that will not come to fruition.”

He stood quickly, his heavy chair scrapping across the floor. Ren called for the soldiers who had been waiting at the bottom of the stairs out of sight.

“Kill them,” He said passing the men as they came rattling up the steps. “Take the king, do not harm him yet.”

“No!” Rey screamed in horror jumping up from her seat. She glanced at Calrissian who had a sad look of regret in his eyes and it broke her heart. “Please! My king!” She stumbled away from the table to go running after him. “Kylo please!”

He stopped mid decent and looked up at her. “It must be done.” He said and turned away again.

“No! It doesn’t have to be like this!” She shouted grabbing his arm.

He stopped, his head down against the sound of Calrissian’s unarmed soldiers being slaughtered by his own unstoppable men.

“Kylo,” Rey went on “Why would you do this!” Tears streamed down her face as she pleaded “His offer was a good one! One that I thought you wanted! Was it Snoke? In the night, did he send word? Or were you lying all along?”

It seemed nearly impossible for Kylo to look at her, but he did, dragging his head and his gaze to see the woman who was nearly queen. “You know nothing of this life Rey.” He sounded alarmingly tired. “But you will learn, just as I have, just as we all must.”

Ren started down the stairs again leaving her to stand there, watching him go until the sound of a woman screaming got her attention.

Hand covering her mouth, Rey turned to see two of the knights bind the fallen kings wrists and shove Jannah to the ground while the other men were finished off.

“Stop!” Rey cried and ran back up the steps.

“Rey…” Kylo looked over his shoulder, watching as she disappeared over the crest of the landing.

“Leave her!” She demanded. Jannah —formerly resplendent with poise— was half way under the table, kicking and fighting for her life.

The soldiers treated Rey’s words as a joke and laughed in her face.

With a growl of anger the witch tossed an invisible blow, knocking the men away.

She ran around the table, helping the emissary to her feet.

“Run!” Rey shouted in a horse whisper.

Jannah’s head was bleeding and the sight made Rey’s skin crawl.

She managed to get the woman to the back steps while Ren’s generals and soldiers dealt with the rest of Calrissian’s men.

“I’m so sorry. I was so wrong.” Rey told the girl gripping her arms as Jannah staggered from the blow to her head. Through the haze she locked eyes with Rey, her devastation strong enough that Rey could physically feel it radiating from her.

“You were never wrong.” Jannah said, blood streaming down along the bridge of her nose. “You were mislead.” She had more to say, but could only scream when Pryde attempted to run her through.

Rey was too quick and flung her power into the man, her lighting gripping him like knives. “Run!” She commanded, and Jannah fled. Lobot had managed to escape and was there at the bottom of the back stair with his arm out for her as they began to run together.

Pryde fell and Rey turned to Calrissian, still bound and on the floor.

“You must save yourself!” She said, quickly reaching for the ropes. He looked at the young witch, smiling and impressed by her gift as the fighting continued around them.

She began to untie him, when the sudden and confusing feeling of being held firm kept her from moving at all.

Try as she might, she could not move her arms or legs, only her eyes. And she saw Kylo come into view, leaning into her peripheral like a dark spirit.

“Do not betray me this way.” He said softly to her before turning to Calrissian who was now truly afraid.

Ren —of course, Calrissian thought with wide eyes. The boy is strong in the force like his grandfather. His magic is finally awakened.

Calrissian shrank back.

“I will not kill you here unless you give me reason.” Ren said to him. “Running, is reason enough. If you run now, you will die.” He waited until it seemed the old king understood and looked back down at Rey.

He stared into her unmoving face amazed. Only her eyes moved, frantically searching until they settled on him.

He never knew such a thing was possible, and yet, it felt so natural. His deepest desire had been to make her stop. When he propelled the urge forward and from his core, his power turned her to living stone.

If only she would stay this way, stay still and silent and manageable…

The moment he let go this spell, she would unleash her anger on him and he was not in the mood to fight the woman he loved. The fact that she could possibly kill him in her anger was not something he wished to test either.

Kylo held up his hand, as it seemed the only thing left to do, and willed her to sleep, just as he’d told the bear to go in the forest.

Rey’s eyes shut and she sank, nearly hitting the ground before he caught her.

“Bring him.” Ren ordered his men and started down the steps for the horses, his queen unconscious in his arms.

As he left the grounds that had until today, been neutral, the blood of unsuspecting soldiers and servants staining the pale stones. He —the king over this grand empire— feared that his promise to never hurt her again had been broken. Though not physical, the damage done gripped him like a vice from which there was no escape.

*

With a gasp, Rey sat up to find herself back in the tent.

Breathing hard, her mouth dry and head swimming, she looked around trying to get her bearings.

The events of the day rushed back, flashing fragments of happiness and violence through her mind until she pressed her hand to her head forcing it to stop and she wished she could have forgotten but it was too late.

Calrissian.

Rey was certain he was being held in the camp somewhere as it seemed Kylo didn’t want to kill him just yet. She needed to get to him, to save him before he lost his head.

With a groan she rubbed her temples wishing for coriander or peppermint to dull the throbbing Kylo’s power had caused.

Shaking her head she dropped her hands defeated. The day that started out with such promise had failed so spectacularly, she could not make sense of it.

Damn him! She’d been so sure, so certain that he would not go this way.

One word from Snoke and the man crumbled.

“Fucking bastard” She spat and tried to stop herself from crying, but it hurt so much. He’d proven to be no more than the creature riding into the valley all those weeks ago.

Feeling sick with betrayal, she got up, lurching to the side as she tried to understand what it was he’d done to her when he’d frozen her in place. It was something she’d never experienced, or heard of anyone else doing, but it seemed Kylo held the power to do it.

What a fool I’ve been, she thought and stumbled out of the tent.

A little less disoriented in the cool night air, she was quiet and quick and avoided being seen.

Without a clue as to where Calrissian might be, she started for the back of the camp with the intention of working her way forward, but with some luck her search ended before it could begin.

She found the former king, bound and tossed against a tree near the latrines.

Gagging at the smell, Rey covered her mouth and nose, going to him quickly, lifting his battered face.

“King Landonis?” She whispered not wanting to frighten him, but as he opened his eyes and smiled at her, she realized how silly that had been.

He was not a man who scared easily. She didn’t need to know him well to know that much about him.

“Ahhh. Rey from Jakku.” He said, his swollen eye trying to open as his functioning one sparkled in the dark through the pain. “You’ve gotten yourself into some mess.” He teased.

Rey laughed nervously through her sadness. “Please, tell me before they come for you.” She implored “What happened? You and I assumed he would allow you to stay on. This was meant to be a peaceful negotiation and he betrayed us both. But I feel there must be a reason for it. I must know the true cause behind his complete change of heart. I have a strong suspicion…” She eyed him again “And something tells me that you do too. I’m thinking, you know more than you let on.” She raised her brow high as she asked him clearly “What business is there between yourself and his family?”

Rey had not been able to forget the way Lando said that name, Solo.

Calrissian smiled. “You’re smarter than he knows.”

“Yes.” She said definitively.

The old man laughed and winced at the pain it caused, but sat up with her help. The soldiers had really worked him over after Kylo carried her way, but it seemed to be no more than he could stand.

Lando gave a huff with a look resigned to this moment, and spoke. “Well my dear girl, there is a history here. One that spans generations, but I’ve only been around long enough to know the cause for his actions today. You see I know the truth about Ren’s father.”

“His father? Yes, you said his name earlier, but I still don’t understand.” She could not fathom how Kylo’s father might have anything to do with battles over kingdoms and titles. “What truth?”

“There is more to the king’s story than building an empire. And I know because we were good friends. Han and I. The truth of why Kylo Ren is who he is today has a lot to do with his father’s death. And, given my current situation, I think it best I finally tell the truth. It won’t do any good buried with me.”

She gulped at the blunt delivery of this news. The visions... yes, that was the sadness that consumed the young prince. He’d lost his father.

“You’ll be alright,” She said blinking back to the present. “I think I might still be able to reach him” She tried to look encouraging.

Calrissian however dashed those hopes with a single look. “Just as you did today? Was that before or after he took control of you?”

Rey looked down, embarrassed and angry.

“Don’t feel sorry for yourself witch. You just underestimated the man. We all did. But it’s not the first time in history, and if anything, it only speaks to your kind heart.” He said patting the back of her hand.

Rey felt as though she could cry, but she refused. Calrissian spoke the truth, there was no denying it, no matter how much it stung.

“You see they all think Han was killed by an assassin. But I know the truth, and it seems someone else is aware of my knowledge. That is the only thing that would make sense of this mess. I did not guard my secret as well as I thought and the possibility of exposing the truth has put a target on my head. Your king may have wanted a peaceful negotiation, but he was never really in control of it. So long as he wants me dead, and my secret dead with me.”

“He? Ren?” She was confused.

The king shook his head. “Snoke,”

Rey sat back, her shoulders slumping. “I knew it. That man has been living in Kylo’s head for years.”

Calrissian nodded. “And what do you think he’s been doing in that boys mind all this time?”

She shook her head. “I don’t know.” Her thoughtful eyes narrowed in the night as the wheels turned quickly while the king spoke.

“Deceiving, manipulating, and changing the facts of the past to cover his own dark acts.” Lando said. “Hiding his crimes against king’s family— against Ren’s father.”

Rey’s head snapped up as she realized.

“He did it? Snoke killed Kylo’s father?” She held in a gasp “Why would he?”

Lando looked sad now at the memories. “To get the boy of course.”

Rey’s world was spinning too fast and too far off it’s axis. She felt stunned, she could not imagine how shocked Kylo would be.

“But why kill his father?” She asked. “Wasn’t Ren to be taken to the temple either way? At least I’ve read the kings of Alderaan train there before they take the throne.”

“Yes, but, Snoke saw the potential in the boy, just as Han and Leia did. Even from a young age, though they never discussed it with him they saw his penchant for magic… I think they were afraid. You must understand how badly Snoke wanted that power for himself, it was disturbing to see him lust after it.” He said pulling a face “But he knew he would never be able to control Ren so long as the love of his family stood strong. Snoke brought up every fault, every misstep —Ren’s as well as Han and Leia’s— in an attempt to tear them apart. The relationship between master and apprentice is sacred you see, and your king was under Snokes spell from the age of twelve. Now, Han may not have been the best father, but he would never have let the priest take his boy without a fight. But by the time he wanted to step up and reclaim his son, it was too late. I saw it, I heard the confrontation. Han knew Snoke aimed to steal the boy completely, and what do you do to gain such access to a mind? You break the spirit, wound it so deeply that the only thing left to do is mend it with love,”“Snoke does not love Kylo.” She said appalled.

He nodded. “Exactly.”

“I don’t know this priest, but I have no doubt he loves only himself.” She said looking down at the mud.

“I do know him, and I tell you now my lady, the man is evil and has been using the king to get what he wants.”

“Which is?”

“The empire.”

She understood.

“When I offered myself as ward of Bespin, I had hoped to slowly help the king see the truth and reveal what I know to him. Then, with our armies united, we could stop Snoke and free the boy from his spell before its too late.”

“You speak of him as though you care.” She said looking back up at Lando with a wavering smile.

“I don’t know him.” Calrissian said plainly. “My time in Alderaan was short, and I only ever saw the prince from afar. But, I knew his father. Han was a good man, and I loved him, and his mother Leia.”

“He doesn’t speak of her often…”

“I can not say I know much of it, but I’m certain Snoke has driven a wedge between them too, and of course there are the stories of Ren’s violent ways that puts a strain on any love, even the love of a mother.”

She nodded. “Why wouldn’t Snoke just train him to use his powers, his magic is strong. He could use it to make quick work of every battle, they would be unstoppable.”

“Ahh, but you see the only thing more frightening to a man like Snoke than power like Ren’s —is not being able to control it. Snoke has talent to be sure, not exactly remarkable. With practice he’s become a strong warlock, however, he knew that training Ren could backfire easily the moment the boy became stronger than him, which would have been quickly, if Han’s telling was accurate. Snoke would not be outdone by a boy king. Keep your friends close…”

“Enemies closer” She said softly.

“And preferably under your thumb. Complete control can be even more powerful than training.” Calrissian added shaking his head.

“I don’t know what to do. I feel —lost, I misjudged him so terribly.” Rey said feeling weak.

Calrissian reached out and held her hand. “No, my girl, you saw who he once was, who he had the potential to be. It’s not on you to save him, but you tried. Now, stop blaming yourself for the deeds of a man you’ve no control over.”

“Rey”

She jumped looking over her shoulder to find Kylo standing with his sword in hand.

She gasped and stood rushing to him, gripping his jacket.

“You must spare him my king, you must listen to what he has to say!” She pleaded clinging to him.

“Why?” He asked simply, his eyes dark and fixed on the older man.

“He knows things Kylo, information that will change everything” She said. She struggled to find the words without blurting out the shocking truth Calrissian had shared, and could only watch as Kylo pushed her aside to confront him.

Ren walked up and crouched before the defeated king.

“I remember you,” He said softly.

Lando met the kings glare, he bowed his head and smiled. “That was a long time ago.”

“You and my father would drink in the garden. I watched from behind the doorway and listened to your stories. I can’t remember them now, but I always hated that when you showed up, he would leave not long after.” He said seething through the calm cadence of his voice.

Calrissian looked away.

“Something about your visits always made him miss the man he was before us, myself and my mother. I hated you as a boy.”

“I can’t say that I blame you.” Lando replied and looked at him again. “The mind of a child can not begin to understand the weight on a man’s shoulders. I’m certain you understand that now.”

Kylo just stared at him.

“I’m sorry, for what it’s worth. I shouldn’t have filled Han’s head with tales of the road and sea… we couldn’t seem to grow up.” He laughed a little with some particular memory and Ren sighed, dropping his head.

“None of it matters now.” he said to himself and Lando. “The past will die tonight. We move forward, but first. What do you know that makes her plead for you?”

Calrissian’s face went stiff, as though all the talk of Han Solo had made him forget that there were more pressing matters. He took a reluctant breath letting it out in a huff. “The simple, but horrible truth that I have carried with me all these long years.” He said finally, sounding tired.

“And that is?”

Lando took a moment to look on the face of his murdered friend’s son, and he could indeed see the similarities between them. It went much deeper than having the same eyes and nose, they were very much hot headed bastards, but one was dead, and the other was an angry king. Yes, the time had finally come for him to share the secret that could have started a war years ago, but might end one now. “Listen to me, Ben.”

Kylo flinched at the name he’d nearly forgotten was ever his.

“Your father, was not slain by an enemy kingdom’s assassin —he was murdered, by your own high priest Snoke.”

The king was quiet, he stared into Calrissian’s eyes for a long while, then looked down. “How do you know this?” He asked his energy unstable in spite of his reserve.

“Because I was there. I saw it.”

“And you’ve told no one. Why?”

“I had a lot of people to protect, And —I was to be named king."

“And you didn’t want Snoke to take your crown,” Kylo surmised looking back up at him “So instead you hid the truth.”

“To my every lasting shame —yes.” He said looking away.

Ren nodded. “I understand.”

“You do?” Rey asked approaching them. “Please say that you do. Kylo he wants to unite the armies! Take out Snoke and keep you as king!”

“He does?” Ren asked and stood.

Rey smiled and nodded. “I don’t know what happened back there, but I hope you can see reason now. He is not your enemy! Snoke is. And it was him behind your change of plan, not you! Just as he has always been behind everything.” Her thinly veiled anger towards the priest grabbed the king’s attention.

Kylo turned to her and reached out to stroke her cheek once. “No” He said looking her over as if trying to remember all the details of her face. “My enemy, is my enemy. And I see now very clearly, who that really is.” He spoke with a conviction that shattered her heart.

Rey stepped back, remembering what it was to fear him.

However, instead of lashing out at her, the king looked over to Calrissian. “You weak minded fool.” His voice was tight with the anger simmering just below the surface. “You dare try to save your life with lies?”

“I swear it to you young king, I have no reason to lie,”

“It seems you had every reason when you stood by and watched us grieve for the loss of my father while the one who murdered him stood at our side. If what you say is true.”

“It was a mistake, my biggest regret.”

“No.Your biggest regret, Lando Calrissian, was not being wise enough to take your secret to the grave. You might have lived a little longer if you had.”

His voice was the culmination of a lifetime of hurt and a torment, few could understand. Ren’s eyes burned with the hate and anger for the lies and loss and all of it focused on the man who had gravely miscalculated his capacity for vengeance and violence.

Rey could feel it as easily as she did the night air on her skin. His rage was like an open wound, raw and volatile. She’d never felt such pain from one man before, but her attention was pulled to the one who sat in the piss soaked dirt with grace.

She Looked into Calrissian’s eyes, and they shone like the stars as Ren’s blade came down and ran him through, dimming the light for good.

Rey’s scream was as angry as Ren’s strike as she stumbled away shaking.“Why?”

“He was a liar!” Ren shouted down at the dead king. He paced breathing like a bull, fighting against the tears, holding on to what was left of his control. “He tried to fool me into believing he was on my side, and you tried to help him!” He spun on her.

“I tried to help you Kylo, Not him!” She tossed back as she cried, the events of the day consuming her.

“You’re a liar too, just as Snoke said.”

He’d told the priest about her? Why this felt like such a betrayal she wasn’t sure, but perhaps it was the knowledge of the holy man’s nature that made her fearful. He did not strike her as the type to let a woman like Rey live in peace. He certainly did not leave a threat unchecked.

“Kylo. He killed your father.” She spoke in the whispered toned of disbelief. “He is evil. And you trust him over me? A person who has never lied to you?”

“A woman I do not know.” He said towering over her, his eyes cold and distant. “Magic in a woman can be a terrible thing. They wiped your kind out for a reason, and Snoke was right to warn me.”

“Or perhaps he fears me, because he knew that with me at your side, your own connection to the magic of the force would be awakened. His own apprentice would be a danger to him. He knew that together we would learn of his true nature, and what he did!” She said clearly, her words ringing in the air. “Calrissian was an unforeseen accelerant, that’s for certain, but I for one am relieved to know what really happened —why aren’t you?”

“Because it’s not true!” He shouted lashing out through his pain and she wanted to comfort him, his heart was so clearly broken. But he had betrayed her trust, lied and murdered all for the sake of his own pride and glory, and the approval of a wicked man.

“I can not continue with you.” She said with a gasp, realizing how true this was as she said it.

Kylo leaned away, the impact of her choice more profound that he realized in the moment. “Go.” He said quickly, his own eyes glassy and shimmering “Go before you know what it is to have me as your enemy. Never show your face to me again.” He said ignoring the dry sob that shook from her body. “You may have your woods, but the twelve kingdoms are mine.” His deep voice shook as he gave the command and turned his head to shut her out.

Rey ran her palms over her face, wiping tears that burned as she took one last look at the man that fate had linked her to without asking.

He was still the most impossibly beautiful thing she’d ever seen, his power and energy intoxicating, his very presence woke her sleeping spirit.

He was the man she loved and he was her greatest disappointment.

Rey turned, running from him as she should have from the start.

*

A thin shroud covered the dead king but did little to hide the proud profile of Lando Calrissian.

Kylo Ren stood among the trees circling the encampment, looking down on the distorted form.

His men had lain Lando out in a cart to be pulled into Bespin, a grim offering to his people. Ren may now be their king but he was not so cruel as to keep the man from his burial rights. He would give them the body to do with as they saw fit.

For a while he just stood, the sounds of nocturnal creatures alive around him, oblivious to the tragedy of this night. Unable to stand the thoughts that churned in his mind, he let it all go blank, and as a cool wind rustled though the dark trees, Kylo’s heart shattered.

Realizing he kept up the facade for no one but the stars, the king finally let go, sobbing into his aching hands.

The same hands that had killed and broken and taken everything good from the world.

He cried for the high possibility of truth in the dead kings words that he could not accept. And he cried for the loss of her.

Dragging his hands down his face, Kylo took a breath. He looked up at the mountain, the moon sitting just at its peak and he wondered what it would take to feel content. He realized quite suddenly that had he never met the witch, he would never have tried to find peace with the south. He would not have opened his mind to the idea of diplomacy.

He would have sent Calrissians ambassador back to him in pieces to make his answer clear.

She’d done this, she’d turned his stone heart soft, and she was gone…

Had he never fallen in love with Rey he would currently have everything that he’d ever wanted, and yet what he wanted most was the witch.

The sound of his men approaching startled Ren from his sorrow and he quickly swallowed the tears walking off before they could bother him and went back down into the camp and into his tent.

On entering, he found it as empty as he had before sharing it with Rey.

Slowly, he scanned the room, eyeing the red dress crumpled on the floor, the shoes kicked off in haste had landed at opposite sides of the room.

She’d left it all behind and taken nothing but the clothes she’d arrived in, when he’d stolen her from home…

She was gone, and with her went all hope for the king.

*

The brown mare carried Rey across the foreign fields to the trails, leaving the life she’d nearly led behind.

As the rhythm of the horses hooves became familiar, Rey shut her eyes, letting herself cry with the agony of heartbreak.

She would leave her tears to the wind and her love for him to the skies. There was no need for it now.

Shouting to the stars above she cursed his name, just as she promised she would before loosing her way.

And though the young witch did not see, a small white owl flew high, watching over her, its silent wings a protection from the dangers in the dark.

#reylo au #medieval reylo #reylo #reylo fanfic #kylo ren #reylo angst #reylo romance #reylo forever #Reylo heartbreak #kylo ren/ rey #rey/kylo ren #the force awakens #the force unleashed #th force is magic #kylo ren is king #don’t do it kylo

[reyloyal]

Stronghold ~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 6

warnings and summary - m/f explicit chapter- 18+ only, absolutely not for anyone under 18 - masterlist

Camp was raised at the foot of the mountain that marked the border of Bespin.

Once things were settled, Hux was able to get the king alone.

Ren had taken his broadsword to the makeshift armory to be cared for by his trusted smithy, and it was there that Hux took a chance and spoke candidly, the sound of sharpening swords ringing out to cover his words.

“I worry over this woman’s influence my liege, that is all” Hux said, his voice a harsh whisper “And does it not strike you as odd that she, a stranger to us, a woman of no wealth or name or title would align herself so closely to a king? Seem’s a wise step towards a comfortable life for a woman used to sleeping in trees.”

Kylo sighed, hanging his head. “She does not sleep in trees Armitage.” He groaned and massaged the bridge of his nose. With his head still down, the king snickered, amused and annoyed by the chancellor, then glanced up. “Yes, I’ve thought of it, I understand how it may seem, and were she any other poor woman from a shit village like Niima I would agree with you, but there are things at play here that you simply can not understand. And I tell you now, you have nothing to worry about.”

“That was not the case just a few days ago.”

“She is no threat to us.”

“You thought so, back in Jakku, do you remember? You thought she’d poisoned the men.”

“And I was wrong.”

“But still, the fact remains that it was a possibility. We don’t know anything about this woman. And when high priest Snoke advised you to keep her close, I don’t think this is what he meant.”

Ren squared his shoulders, narrowing his eyes. “You read my letter?” He asked, his voice deep and cold.

Hux stiffened, aware that he’d given himself away. But he would not back down. “I must keep your safety as a top priority. And the safety of the kingdom. Apologies for over stepping, but I must do what I can. The entire kingdom of Alderaan depends on you my liege. I can not have this… woman, making you forget that.”

Ren was seething but he pushed it down, pacing for a moment before stopping to look Hux in the eye. “I thank you for your concern, but, Armitage, if you ever cross that line again, I will take your head.”

He bowed deeply knowing it was true “Yes, my king. Understood.”

“I don’t expect you to understand yet, but in time you will. All I ask is that you trust me. We’ve been at this a long time, you and I.” His voice softened as he spoke of their friendship “Have I ever given you reason to doubt my ability as king?”

“No” Hux slowly admitted through clenched teeth and looked at the king once more.

“No, and I never will. But you must trust me now, until it becomes clear”

Hux studied the face and eyes of the man. He and the king were similar in age and background, but the stark contrast went beyond their appearance. He’d heard stories about the prince growing up. He was a reckless, wild, boy. Young Armitage thought it a weakness to be so carefree. His opinion had never changed, only his positioning to the king. “Yes, your highness.” He bowed again.

“You should rest. We leave before dawn to meet this king Calrissian of Bespin.” Ren said, gripping Hux’s shoulder in a show of friendship, and warning. “She will be at my side, but as always I want you at the other.”

Hux was stunned at this news of her placement, but gave yet another awkward bow. “Yes my liege.” He said knowing he could not argue or fight the wishes of his king, no matter how foolish they may be.

*

Kylo entered the tent with the heavy steps of a man exhausted, tugging at his layers as if wanting to free himself from the daily confines of his title.

Startled, Rey looked up from her secret work on the floor of the tent and watched as he shed his cloak and gloves tossing them aside before sitting in his large chair with a deep sigh, resting his head on his hand.

“Are you alright?” She asked gently, leaving the collection of items she’d gathered to walk over, fully aware that he was not.

Kylo started to speak but paused when she stopped in front of him and lowered very deliberately to her knees.

His face twisted with curiosity as she knelt at his feet.

“I’m not sure.” He said suspiciously. “But I am tired. That I know for certain.”

She nodded already aware. “You must sleep. You’ll need a clear head for the negotiations.”

Kylo gazed at her suspiciously, but not so much so that the sight of her in this position could not rouse him.

Rey went up to her knees, resting her elbows on his lap.

“I know you’re struggling with everything that’s happened” She said, her hand resting on his stomach. “You’ve hardly had time to accept that you have this power, much less learn how to use it. But remember, you silenced a bear today without a blade, without any solid weapon. Just what’s inside of you, harnessed and focused.”

His face softened as he realized she was just excited by what he’d done and not conspiring against him as Hux was so inclined to think. After all, if she was to teach him, this was a significant step towards understanding his full potential.

Kylo’s large hand came down to lie on the side of her head, his thumb stroking rhythmically at the middle part in her hair. Are you the only one I can trust, he wondered. “Can you do it too?" He asked ignoring his thoughts "Trick a mind like that?"

Rey nodded. “It’s very easy when the one you trick is fairly single minded. Animals are easiest, some humans too, for the most part. Though, not all are so easily manipulated.”

“Why hunt then? Cant you just, tell the animal to lie down so that you can kill it?”

Rey laughed and shook her head “Seems rather unfair for the animal, no? And it would be very tiring to do it for so long. Don’t you feel the exhaustion in your bones?” She asked reaching up to take his hand from her head.

She held it close to her heart and massaged the meat of his palm, making tiny circles up towards the base of each finger until his eyes closed and relaxed just a bit.

His hands were so large, she observed with a smile. Hers hardly looked familiar against them. Gazing at him, she let her eyes drift up his arm with the intention of looking at his face, but stopped unexpectedly at his thighs. She sat his hand down to run her own palm along the black fabric stretched over the solid leg beneath.

He’d held her up and fucked her using each muscle without a single misstep, she remembered with a little shiver in her belly.

He made her weak in such an exquisite way; that was a magic she’d not encountered before, she thought and grinned.

“You have a look in your eyes that I can not ignore.” He warned gently, his smirk hidden behind the curtain of his hair.

Rey pressed her lips tight to keep from laughing and looked away. “Forgive me, I was —distracted.”

With a small laugh he leaned forward to pull her up, scanning her body as she crawled over him, drawing her legs in to straddle the king in the chair.

Rey exhaled slowly through her nose as she settled over him, taking a moment to just look.

She ran her thumb over his dark brow and traced her finger along the straight edge of his regal nose, stopping to touch his full, soft lips.

He gave a deep moan that rumbled under her hand laid flat on his chest, the sound making the muscle between her legs contract. Rey leaned down, eager to kiss him.

She curled over the king, pressing her mouth against his, excited by the feel of his hands on her body and the way her dress bunched against her skin.

“Come, I have plans for you,” She said, eyes closed as she spoke, “Before you meet their king, you must prepare.” She whispered, pulling away to look him in the eyes, and he nodded, though she was certain he’d agree to anything in the moment.

Slipping from his lap, Rey grabbed his hand and led the man to the bath sat on the opposite side of the large tent.

A deep hole had been dug in the ground and warm coals dropped inside before the tub was brought in and placed over it.

Nervous servants who didn’t dare ignore her command for fear of Ren’s anger had filled it with large buckets from the spring while she stood by watching.

Now the steam rose in little wisps from the clear mountain water, heated by the coals to create a most inviting scene.

Rey peeked up at him feeling proud of the gesture “I had them bring it in here for you. For us.” She said twisting her hair into a bun high on her head.

“I see that.” He glanced down at her impressed, if not a little surprised.

She smiled, tucking the last strands of her hair and shrugged. “I suppose authority can be useful sometimes.” She said and he laughed.

Turning to face him -that suggestive look sparkling in her eyes once more- she eased her hands up his torso and began unbuttoning his vest, slipping it down over his shoulders. Next, the armored doublet. She pulled it from each of his long limbs, stumbling back from the unexpected weight of it, which made her laugh as she dropped it over the vest.

More than ready to see what lay beneath all the layers of protection, Rey stepped back and watched as Kylo reached over his head, shedding his shirt in a single fluid motion. His hair fell free of the linen in thick inky layers, resting on his shoulders in stunning contrast to his skin.

With the heavy clothing gone, he revealed a broad chest and shoulders as white as the moon and a body carved to perfection by the cruel blade of battle and the endless years of training.

For a moment, she tried to count the scars decorating his alabaster skin, but there were too many. A knife in the side left a silver wound, a cut along his shoulder healed in a thin angry red slash, and there, a small knick in the ribs… she stopped trying to find them all. How closely physical pain can resemble the mental, she thought and sighed.

And then she felt her mood lighten in response to finding him so hairless. Just a small patch in the middle of his chest, and a dark line below his navel. She thought it sweet. Unexpectedly innocent on a man anything but.

Rey stood there smiling, wonderstruck that any one person could be so perfectly formed.

It occurred to her now as she reached out —gently running her fingers over the soft skin of his torso— that their first time in the woods had been the result of many things, not the least of which was a fierce attraction that had been established the day they met.

There were moments while up against that tree today that would make her blush for years to come, but tonight would be something else entirely.

She watched his ribs contract and expand with excited breath as she tugged at the waist of his pants, eager but fumbling with the closure. Kylo gave her a sympathetic smile and took over.

He gently pushed her hand away and pressed the toe of his boot to the heel, sliding each one off, then opened his pants, gazing at her with the confidence of a man fully aware of his own beauty.  Tucking his thumbs into the waist, he slid them down and off.

When he stood again, Rey found it difficult to look. Her cheeks flushed and her eyes darted around the room until at last she glanced at the naked body of the king.

Letting her eyes drift down and pause, her breath hitched in her chest.

“Oh” She sighed.

Yes, she’d already had him, but to see what had, somehow, been inside of her was very different from just having it done.

She’d never seen a man completely before. The few experiences of her past were either rushed, or done in the dark —the traveling seller hadn’t even bothered pulling his pants down at all— now she thought she was glad for it. Those poor souls could not have prepared her for this.

The thick, solid length of his arousal raised in a subtle arc, which was both intimidating and absolutely thrilling. With a very tiny smile, she admired his patch of black hair, as soft and lovely as silk.

Kylo stood, breathing heavy under her very direct gaze for as long as he could stand it. When it seemed she might stare at him all night, he smiled and reached out, crooking a finger under her chin to lift her head. “Rey…” He said, amused by her apparent innocence.

Blushing, Rey rolled her eyes and pulled her face away.

“Your turn.” He ordered.

Fair enough, she thought with a raised brow. Gathering her kirtle in hand, Rey slowly pulled the dress up and off, tossing it down over his fallen clothes.

Next she pulled the thin shift from her shoulders, one short sleeve at a time to free her breasts, feeling elated by the soft rumble of approval coming from him. With a small rotation of her hips she pulled the fabric down, letting it pool at her ankles before stepping out of the white circle.

There they stood. As free and natural as the stars that formed them.

Slowly Rey looked up, pleased to see him equally captivated.

Kylo stepped forward and cupped her left breast, the signet ring on his little finger cool against her warm skin. His brow furrowed as he tilted his head to take in every inch of her body.

Daily hard work kept Rey from acquiring the curves other women seemed to have, but she was strong and exquisite in her own way. Her soft skin and the gentle rounding of her hips were intoxicating and he reached out grabbing her, but Rey pushed him back, her hand hot on his chest.

“Not yet.” She smiled and he grunted wondering if she understood how badly he needed her.

Before he could verbally protest, she turned and stepped up and into the bath, motioning with her head for him to join her.

Kylo grabbed the soap from the stool beside the wooden tub and stepped inside. He bent to wet the bar and lathered it quickly as Rey took a deep breath. She anticipated the slippery touch of his hand on her body with a soft moan, only to laugh when he started washing himself instead.

Grinning, he happily covered the parts that were in desperate need of cleaning until he was well lathered.

With a splash, Ren sat in the round tub, his long legs on either side of hers, and tossed the water up to wash the soap from his body.

“Well.” She clamped her mouth shut to keep from laughing. “I guess that’s one way of doing it.” She scolded, as the laugh escaped.

Smiling like the innocent boy he was not, Kylo held the bar up for her to use.

Her bright grin replaced her laughter as she gently pushed his hand down.“I had hoped you might help me…” She pressed her lips and blinked down at him, suddenly shy and a little ignorant to seduction. It was not needed, but she wanted to try.

Kylo found her attempts to be painfully endearing and took her hand, pulling the woman down to her knees.

Spinning the bar in his hands, he worked another good lather and reached, sliding the white bubbles down the center of her chest before spreading them across and under each breast in turn.

He switched hands and smoothed a path of soap down her stomach, over to her ribs and up. “Raise your arm” He said nodding with his chin and she did.

Her explosive laughter rang out in the tent when he curved his hand along her underarm and Rey curled away from him, trying to protect herself from the awful tickle. “Stop! I’ll do it!” She squealed, and for the first time since they met, she heard the king’s true laugh. He let go his inhibitions, tussling with her until he’d forced her other arm up and soaped that side as well.

Catching her breath, ripples of lingering laughter bounced in her chest as she calmed. And then his touch changed.

His hand left the sensitive skin and quickly ran down the previous path, but didn’t stop. He slipped his fingers below the water and caught her between the legs with his palm.

The transition was so quick she gasped and grabbed his shoulders.

They locked eyes as he ran his hand back and forth, the tip of his middle finger dangerously close to entering her as he’d done earlier. But he didn’t. Instead he just washed. Scrubbing her more thoroughly than she would have on her own.

It felt terribly intimate. To be touched in a way that was utilitarian by someone who could have her pulsing through a climax so easily… his ability to render her as liquid as the water they bathed in consumed her as much as she found it frightening to be so helplessly in want of the man.

Finished, Kylo stopped, making her moan reflexively.

He raised his cupped hand to wash away the rest of the soap, and watched as it slid down her body, melting into the water.

“Better?” He asked, his voice deep now.

Rey opened her mouth to answer him but could only let out the breath she’d been holding and nodded, feeling very small and a little naive to the man she was so certain she loved. Sometimes she forgot how powerful he was without engaging a drop of magic.

Quietly, the young witch stood and stepped out of the tub, grabbing the robe draped over a chair. She dried herself with it and held it out for him instead of tying it on.

Kylo rose from the water, taking the damp robe and joined her, drying off absently as his mind was clearly on the woman standing before him.

He tossed the robe aside and came up behind her, taking her shoulders in hand, kissing her neck, letting the tips of his fingers graze along the backs of her arms. He curved his hand around her waist, laying it flat on her stomach and pulled her back, pressing his erection against the small of her back.

Rey could feel his natural dominance taking hold, but she would not give in just yet. “Go and lie down” She said softly.

He moaned in her ear protesting, but she held up her finger. “Go.” She said over her shoulder.

He grumbled but obeyed with a smile for his queen.

Going to the furs, Kylo spread out with a sigh.

Rey followed and sat next to him with her legs bent and tucked beside her.

Her heart was racing with the thrill of this night. And to be looked at this way... she could nearly see the love he held for her in his eyes and it was something so real, so pure, she imaged that living a single day without it would be the end of her.

Rey took Kylo’s hand and pulled it up to kiss the finger that had been inside of her in the woods. Just the lightest touch of her lips to his skin before parting them and letting the tip of his index touch her tongue.  Kylo inhaled sharply making her smile. He brushed her bottom lip with his thumb before pulling his hand away and down her neck to her breast, enjoying the feel of her soft skin along the outer curve, and the nearly weightless pressure in his hand as he cupped her right side. He pinched at her nipple and her head lolled to her shoulder, her eyes shutting as she moaned softly, feeling the wetness begin to gather again between her legs. Curious to see how much she could take he tugged at the pink flesh making her hiss though she did not stop him, only watched him play, her body eagerly responding to every touch.

When she looked down at him again, his clean skin was glowing warm from the light of the brazier, and Rey felt the time had come to let him claim her, but she would lay the same hold.

With a smile she spoke “It seems you’re mine in body,” She said softly, gazing at the sight of him, hard as a stone and heavy against his stomach. She was proud to cause such a physical response in the king.

Slowly she pulled his hand away from her chest and placed his arm back at his side.

Rising up to her knees, with her eyes never leaving his, Rey swung her leg over to straddle him again.

Reaching down, she took him in hand, surprised by the soft touch of his skin. His thick erection more than filled her grip as she began to stroke him slowly until she elicited that first rumbling moan from him.

Enjoying the slow build, Rey held a breath as she worked her hips back and forth letting him feel how ready she was.

“Now you will be mine in heart as well my king. I can not continue without knowing that we belong to one another.” She tightened her hold around him “No man has ruled me,” She stopped moving, letting him throb at her entrance. “And no man ever will.” She lowered her hips an inch or so, gasping with the feel of being spread. “But I will call you king forever if you say to me that you are mine and I am yours.” Rey paused, her chest rising and falling with shallow breaths.

He wished to answer, but the feel of her left him unable to speak. So she braced and shut her eyes, dropping her hips to consume him completely. Every muscle in her body tensed with the exquisite threat of being split in two.  "Say it." She whispered.

Kylo grabbed her thighs with bruising force.

“Promise me Kylo.” She demanded, her voice clear but tight.

He stared into her eyes, holding her in place. Reaching up, the king laid his hand against her cheek, slipping it up into her hair, gripping tightly enough that she winced and bit her lip, his own face stern with focus.

Raising his hips just a few inches, he pressed deeply into the woman, watching as her mouth opened with a silent cry.

Rey grabbed his torso, bracing on the muscle of his stomach, fighting against the ache. A sound like shocked laughter shuddered from her body though she did not smile. With her eyes shut tight and her back naturally arched, she let her hips lean into the deep push.

When he seemed satisfied that she would never forget the feel of him or his unforgiving size, very softly he answered. “I swear it.”

She relaxed her back just a bit and looked down on him, licking her lips before she spoke “I hold your heart in my hands, and you are the owner of mine, and no other.” Her words rode the back of a long sigh.

“There will be no one else.” He agreed, understanding the importance of such a declaration. “Only you.”

Rey smiled with a fire in her eyes. “Then I am yours completely.” She whispered and let out a small shout as he quickly sat up and flipped her over so that she was on her back against the soft furs and he covered her.

Her back arched and she pressed her head into the bedding, moaning under him as Kylo made slow, aggressive thrust to claim what was now his. She drew her knees in, locking a leg around the small of his back as she gladly devoured what was now hers, and both felt the rush of emotion that came with giving so feely and so completely.

He slid his arm under her shoulders and held her tight, taking her hand to raise and pin it over her head.

Quickly trailing his fingers down her arm, he covered her breast, with first his hand and then his mouth, the warmth of his lips and wet tongue on her nipple made her whimper and tighten around him. Sucking, biting just a bit, he hummed a moan against her skin, leaving her breasts with a crude sound to hold her tightly again.

Rey felt the crushing weight of him, but could not bear to push him away. Instead she ran her fingers through his hair, raking it back and raised her chin, as she rocked under him. Her lips brushing his ear so that Kylo could feel each breath and hear every gasp in answer to his increasing rhythm.

The man was so aware of his strength —having used it for such brutality over the years—that she knew he feared hurting her. She sensed him holding back, but in the moment she wanted more and the look in her eyes told him so.

Kylo’s gaze went dark as he let go of all restraint and showed her what it was to be his.

Pulling his arm free, he braced against the furs with his hand flat beside her and closed the other around her throat.

He bent to kiss her hard, only letting go to cup and watch her breast bounce in his hand as he slammed into her, pinching hard to make her yelp.

Smiling, he pushed up onto his knees and hinged his hands in the bend of hers, yanking her forward.

He sheathed his shining length like a sword inside her, making Rey gasp. Each long muscle of his arms flexed with the tension of a body before the release as he thrust until there was nothing but the unrelenting, pounding force of him, and he drank in the woman’s cries that threatened to wake the camp.

She turned her head away as she said his name into the furs with a pleasure so strong, a tear streaked down the side of her face tickling her ear.

Reaching for him, Rey slid her hands up his thick forearms as he grabbed her around the biceps and lifted her up until she sat on top of him.

Thighs apart, knees bent, impaled and moaning from the change in positioning, Rey clung to the king, breathless as her eyes searched his.

He held his hand at the small of her back, keeping her in place as he moved beneath her, almost as if to show her what to do.

Rey’s fingers curled to fists in his hair. Every nerve ending tingled, every inch of her skin buzzed and hummed as she started to rock, slowly at first, testing her limits. She hissed from a twinge of pain only to sigh heavy as her hips found the perfect configuration. Even the smallest circling would cause an exquisite sensation of being stroked from the inside.

With a breathless smile, she wrapped her arms around his neck and held him close, pressing his cheek to her breast. Her sound of surprise became a small laugh as the swell began to build.

Kylo held her so tight, that he feared he would crush her, but the feel of each small thrust from her determined hips would drag her tight walls up, exposing his skin to the air, only to grind back down. Her quick, bouncing movements were different from his own powerful thrusts, and yet she fucked him into a state of numbness so divine, the man forgot his own name.

Rey’s efforts quickened as did her breathing. Her cries reached a higher octave, signaling her climax and Kylo held back his own completion to watch.

Her entire body flexed with the first strong contraction that squeezed him. She shuddered as the waves rippled down his length in little bursts, until she gave one last gasp and tossed her head back with a deep moan, her grip on his hair painful and perfect.

Holding her still, Kylo listed to her heart race, felt her thighs trembling against his own. He’d felt her come for the first time and reveled in the orgasm that left Rey dripping around him.

When she took a breath and lowered her chin, he pushed the back of her head until their foreheads touched.

Still riding her high, Rey shut her eyes to listen to the way his breath caught in his throat, her own reply a smile and sigh as solid turned to stone inside of her. Opening her legs just a little more, she happily accepted his single thrust that shot rushes of warmth deep into her belly.

Kylo opened his eyes, panting as he searched her beautiful face. He was shaking just a little and Rey gave a very soft smile of approval. She brushed his hair back and kissed his lips, then pulled him close, wanting nothing more than to just stay this way for a while.

Her fingers stroked along his shoulder again and again in a soothing rhythm until their breathing began to calm.

She closed her eyes, committing to memory the way she involuntarily pulsed around him, like tiny quakes of residual pleasure. She marveled at the way he still filled her completely, and imagined what she must look like spread wide, exposed to the air… grinning, she slipped her arms around him, holding him tight once more, overcome by the unexpected feeling that pulled the emotion from her chest.

It hit her then that she was holding the man she loved in her arms and that they were, in this moment, as connected as two people could be.

She would never forget it.

Finding the will to move, he took her by the waist and slowly lifted as she raised up, both of them falling to the furs, spent.

There was a fine sheen of sweat across his brow and down her breast, and the room was buzzing with an energy created by their coupling that felt real enough to be bottled.

Rey stretched her long limbs, relishing in the afterglow, with the ache of his efforts still inside her. It felt like she’d sunk deep into the earth. It’s quiet hold on them safe and dark and still.

She would sleep there happily if this were the end to the night, but it was not.

After letting her heart slow, and their bodies recover, she smiled and sat up, looking down on the king and brushed his thick hair from his eyes.

Sometimes, she felt her heart would burst when she looked at him…

“Where are you going?” He asked with a croaky voice as she got up and went back to her collection of things in the middle of the tent.

She ignored his question and sat on her knees, resting her bare backside on her heels. “Come here.” She finally said.

He groaned. “I can not move.”

Rey laughed and glanced over her shoulder. “That’s not true at all.”

The king nearly blushed with his smile and got up, going for his clothes but she stopped him.

“No, you must be as you are.”

He eyed her for a moment but accepted this and came to sit beside her.

“What is this?” He asked trying to make sense of what he saw.

She was focused on arraigning things, and he could see now that she was working some sort of spell.

Rey took a deep breath, cleared her throat and spoke.

“You, are strong,’ She started and eyed him sidelong. “Undefeated and feared.” She looked back down. “But there is never any harm in taking precautions.” She said, remembering the way his chancellor had looked at him this afternoon.

“What will you do?” He asked, genuinely curious now.

She reached into the circle she’d made from small stones and soil and picked up a knife set between two bowls, one empty one half full of water. “Quiet, let me focus.” She said and tossed her hair from her eyes as she began to whisper.

He watched her lips moving though there was no hope of understanding what she said.

She swayed, just the slightest bit, as though she were moving to a song too old to be heard by someone who did not know how to listen.

“Be with me,” She finished and opened her eyes.

She had a distant look, as though she could see things just over his shoulder that he was not aware of and the man felt a chill down his back.

Without warning, Rey reached out and grabbed his arm pulling his hand into her lap. She grabbed the knife and felt him tense.

“With the bond of blood, we offer life.” She said, her voice soft as she spoke and pricked first his finger, and then her own.

She held her hand over the empty bowl, and Kylo, assuming he was meant to do the same, followed her lead.

“Watch over this man, protect him, and be with him also.” She said and rose to her knees. Before he could stop her, she cut a tiny lock of his hair and tossed it on top of the blood.

From the circle she took a bit of dirt and sprinkled that in, mixing it with her finger.

The quiet incantation was said again and he waited, watching in awe until she stopped, leaned over the bowl and spit into it, just a tiny amount very quickly. She picked it up circling a vertical halo in the air.

Turning to face him, Rey motioned for him lean forward, and she dipped her thumb into the mix, then pressed it to the center of his forehead, the base of his throat, and the middle of his chest. The placement was symbolic and he felt he understood why she’d chosen them.

Clear mind, clear voice, strong heart.

With that done, Rey took the bowl of water and poured just enough so that the mixture became more liquid and stood with it in her hands.

Kylo watched her naked form rise and walk to the fire, his sharp eye catching the thin line of semen trickling down her thigh, bright as a diamond in the fire light, and he had to stop the blood rush that would see him harden again by focusing on her magic instead.

She raised the cup to the flame as if in offering, then tossed the contents onto the fire.

The crackle and hiss did not put it out as expected. Instead it roared mighty before her, alarming him.

Kylo got up to pull her out of harms way, but when he did, she just laid her hand over his, not frightened in the least.

The flame nearly reached the thick ceiling above before it seemed to fold in on itself and returned to its natural dance.

“The protection was granted.” She said with a smile and looked up at him.

Ren was starring wide eyed at the orange flames, clearly too shocked by his first sign of elemental magic to reply.

Smiling at his sweet ignorance, she touched his faced gently and pulled his attention back down to her.

“You see, I could not let my own heart go into battle without armor.” She said and raised up to kiss him.

*

Hux could feel his rage growing.

Carefully and without a sound, he stepped away from the narrow slit in the tent’s opening.

He was stunned by the sight of the king and the witch standing naked before the flames as her spell blazed hot in the tent, stoked by the fire.

The heady scent of sex that escaped into the night was thick enough to arouse something deep in the man that he despised.

Hux was not known for giving into such, messy desires, and preferred to keep away from it all together if it could not be done in a controlled, and preferably pristine surrounding.

This, was a step above two animals in the forest.

The forest…he rolled his eyes shut, shaking his head with realization.

That, had been look on their faces.

Her with flushed cheeks, and him, as pleased as a rutting dog.

Hux grumbled as he turned towards the current scene once more.

Ren was stroking the girls nest of hair back from her face, and they looked at one another in a way that Hux had, until this moment, been certain was reserved for vapid play acting by street performers.

Love. Just as he’d suspected.

It was the one thing that could ruin their plans and halt their advance. This witch cared nothing for the war. She was happier running amongst flowers in her bare feet than seeing their empire expand.

Dread filled him as he imagined all the ways it could go wrong for them with her in the way.

He’d seen entire kingdoms fall in the name of the ridiculous emotion, and knowing Ren for as long as he had, Hux had no doubt, that the king who could throw himself into rage and brutality so completely was surely capable of doing the same for love.

Ren turned the girl around, embracing her from behind, his large hand gliding up the side of her body, closing over her breast as he leaned down to kiss her neck and their silhouettes moved on to something more crude before the golden flame.

The chancellor spun away and started the walk back to his own empty quarters.

Giving in to such carnal desires… how could Ren be so easily distracted from the grand task at hand.

Hux was fuming as he marched past the sleeping men. It seems his talk with the king had been for nothing. His words were as useless as a gust of hot wind. And the witch dared to perform her dark arts on him! On the king! High priest Snoke would not stand for it, Armitage thought, his brows nearly touching with the deep frown.

It was beyond insult now. The king was toying with their very foundations. The northern witches had been purged for a reason. They were a danger to men, and a danger to the kingdom. She may have saved Ren and given the army the chance to defeat Bespin, but to bed a witch was a slap in the face to the gods who had seen them all destroyed. If this didn’t stop, Hux would be forced to report back to the only authority on the matter, and he knew — Snoke would have her in chains.

She’d be tossed into a black cell and forgotten for such a display of false prophecy, and Hux would hold the key.

For a moment he felt some guilt for his plotting as he hated to betray Ren. He did so want the king to succeed, but this woman would be his majesty’s downfall if he weren’t diligent in seeing her gone.

He would do his best to help the king see her for what she was. A charlatan, a practicer of dark, wicked arts, a female mage of a most dangerous sort.

If his friend could not be swayed with kind and thoughtful insight, Hux would do what he must to stop this woman and save the king.

*

The feeling of his mouth woke her.

A tingling sensation spread up from her lower half rousing her body to respond and Rey opened her eyes -quite confused- looking down past her bare skin to find the shining black head of the king between her legs.

“What are you doing?” She sighed sleepily.

He ran his tongue up, tickling her skin to press against the sensitive spot that made her muscles contract before raising his head.

There was a look of a lust in him that made Rey shiver.

“I wanted to know what you taste like” He answered, his soft voice clear in the quiet night. “I want to know, and remember your scent”

She moaned approval with a tired smiled as he spoke.

“When we ride to face the king tomorrow, I want to look into the eyes of all those men who will try to best me, and remember that I have the taste of a queen on my tongue, a queen who could take their lives so easily, if she wished.” There was a thrill in his voice at the idea of it. “But never would. For she is a just and kind woman” He said with a smile and stroked her thigh so lightly it made her flesh prickle in response. “You will be the queen of the people. You’ve the heart for it where as I do not. They will worship you,” He slid his hand from her thigh to her wet divide and ran two fingers up to spread her, sighing as she did. “But first, you will be mine.” He circled his long finger teasing her “And I wish to worship you now.”

Rey felt a burst of physical joy mix with the exquisite force of love, and she reached out to lay a hand on his head gladly accepting his offering.

She pushed him back down to the divine altar he’d made, holding her breath the moment his mouth found her again.

Kylo did something wild with his tongue, swirling and pressing until she cried out in deep stunted breaths.

When he used his fingers to spread her even wider, she gasped, her hands covering her face as he dipped his tongue into the pulsing circle before going back to the small, swollen peak, as pink and erect as her nipples, so sensitive she could not tell if this was unbearable or incredible.

He gave her no time to think. The slow heavy flick of his tongue over her clitoris matched with the gentle sucking quickly resulted in a triumphant cry of release from Rey as the mastery of his skill brought her to climax.

It rippled through her entire body, buzzing and warm —the king taking it in like a man starving.

Worship indeed.

Gasping through her smile, she watched, unable to speak as he sat up and wiped his mouth with his palm and fingers.

He gazed down at her for a while, enjoying the sight of his queen so satisfied, and her eyes thanked him, though she did not try to speak.

Kylo lay down beside her and Rey turned, letting him pull her close until she curled up in his arms, willing her heart to slow and her breath to calm, letting the soft way he stoked her hair lull her back towards sleep.

“Kylo?” She whispered just before she went under.

“Hm?”

“When you are able to say the words, of which I think we both know to be true, know that I will be ready to say them back.”

She heard his heartbeat quicken as he held her tighter, and she fell asleep smiling, content to lie beside the king of the twelve kingdoms.

*

“My liege, I’m sorry for waking you.” Rodrick said timidly from the entry of the tent.

“I am awake.” Ren replied, quietly sitting up next to Rey. She was breathing softly, her eyes fluttering but not opening. He still could not sleep in spite of her best efforts to exhaust him. Not on the eave of his greatest day.

The young squire walked in with his head down though he could not help himself and stole a glance at the bare hip of the girl, his wide eyes gliding over the gentle slope of her thigh, all the way along its smooth edge. As he dared to glance higher, Ren reached back and pulled the blanket up to cover her.

“What is it?” He asked irritated.

“Forgive me my liege” Rodrick looked to the ground “But a raven came in the night. The letter has high priest Snoke’s seal,” He said, handing Ren the scroll and stepping back.

Rodrick gave in to adolescent curiosity once more and looked down. Though the witch was blocked by the kings body and covered, he still could not resit. She remained a frightening mystery to him, but she was so beautiful. He could nearly understand why the king had been so easily influenced—nearly.

“Is everything alright my king? Might I get you something to help you sleep?” He asked after Ren finished and crumpled the letter in his palm.

The king shook his head looking vexed and stood without shame. Rodrick quickly averted his eyes, though he saw why the witch slept so soundly after a night with him.

Ren quickly pulled on his pants and shirt, and shoved into his boots.

Once dressed, he motioned for the boy to follow him.

Standing just outside the warmth of the tent, Ren leaned a little closer. “Were you ever given any other letters to send to Alderaan, or received any besides this one? Anything addressed to high priest Snoke?”

“No my king, nothing at all.” The young man lied.

Ren studied his face for a moment, hoping to see through to the truth of it.

Rodrick was a decent squire, he’d never given the king any real reason to doubt him. But still— there was this letter.

Something was wrong and he sensed it.

He’d kept up correspondence with the priest throughout his years long crusade. And so, in spite of his personal grievances with the man, he hadn’t thought it unwise to continue writing to him if not to simply keep up the appearance of his former friendship. But as Kylo went over what he’d read, he could not make sense of it.

All he’d written to Snoke was a simple explanation of his plan for negotiations; and that had only been done in inquiry.

Kylo had wondered if Snoke might know of Lobot, though the man was not a priest, there was always the chance Snoke might have heard about him, they might even know of each other, and if not, the king thought it smart to unite the two. It could possibly make the transition from kingdom to fief a little easier for Bespin. That was all, nothing more nothing less. No need for such a reply.

Something was amiss, and the king wondered if Snoke was aware of more than he let on, which, given his ability to lie to Kylo for years, was not beyond reason. Should it surprise him that Snoke was capable of keeping valuable information hidden from his own king, a king who was set to ride out and complete his sole mission the next morning.

He must have known how devastating this letter would be to the plan for a peaceful takeover. To be told so directly that he must continue on with his original pursuit and take the kingdom with the force of his full army... it shook him to his core. And though it shamed Kylo to admit it, he feared going against the high priest even now after realizing he’d been played for so long and so completely.

Snoke had done well with his indoctrination and Kylo Ren—the man he’d made— could not bring himself to go against the wishes of the priest or the gods.

“Is there anything else my liege?” Rodrick asked bowing.

He’d forgotten the boy was there at all.

With a sigh, Ren laid a hand on his squires shoulder. “No, thank you Rodrick. Sleep now… this peace will not last.” He said with a strain of unease in his voice.

“Yes, my king.” Rodrick said and backed away into the dark.

Kylo turned to go into the tent but stopped himself.

He couldn’t go and lay next to her, not yet. Not with the weight of this on his shoulders. He took to the center isle of the encampment, passing the sounds of sleeping men.

The camp fire was dim, but warm in the shadow of the mountain.

Sitting heavy on the ground, careful not to disturb one of the soldiers passed out nearby, he stared into the flames and asked himself a question.

Would he be the king she thought him capable of becoming, or would he be the king Snoke had spent years creating.

He curled his arms around his knees holding the crumpled paper in his hand and settled back to watch the dancing flames.

Rey had used fire to grant him some form of protection, and though he knew she’d done it in preparation for tomorrow, he had to wonder if her spell might work in other ways. After all, he had a priest who lied and a chancellor who did not trust him. These were strange, uncertain times making protection against the ones he called friends seem pertinent.

Kylo thanked Rey for her care when nothing else felt right.

Like unease brought on when he read Snoke’s take on king Calrissian. His letter said that the southern king was a known swindler; a man of little honor whose words could not be trusted. To allow him to stay on as warden of the south would ensure an uprising no sooner than Ren could turn his horse towards the north winds…

It made sense, Kylo confessed to himself. He knew exactly who the southern king was, though he did not dare say as much out loud. And even still he doubted this plan. But, he did so want to try. It worked for other men throughout history. Why not him? Why shouldn’t he be afforded a chance at peace?

As he let his thoughts drift to ideas of a quiet rule, the darkness broke through, reminding him that he’d only gotten this far by being the sort of king who crushed entire kingdoms before claiming them.

Light and dark fought tirelessly. Both demanding he give himself completely, neither caring that he was unsure and afraid.

Perhaps in the end he would simply walk away.

He sighed and rubbed his eye with the palm of his hand. Looking up at the dark sky spattered with stars, he found himself thinking of Rey, naked and asleep in his bed, and yes, the taste of her still on his tongue.

His jaw flexed with tension as he lowered his gaze. The king let the two sides that made him whole fight internally until he felt a small sense of resolve.

There really was only one choice to be made. And it would see him sit on the throne no matter what, and her beside him.

There really was only one choice to be made. And it would see him sit on the throne no matter what, and her beside him.

**

The new morning brought bold sunlight to the mountainside encampment.

Golden rays shone through the walls, lighting the tent, and the king stood with his arms out, letting his page finish with dressing him as he watched Rey trying her best to ready in a place never meant for a queen.

For a moment he wondered if they should have been more discreet— given her a small tent of her own perhaps? But he cared little for the lie of morality, especially when out in the fields of battle.

“I promise you an army of ladies in waiting when we return to Alderaan” Kylo said, sorry for denying her the things she deserved. Still, she seemed to be making quick work of her hair on her own and he gave a little smirk at her endless capabilities.

Rey’d split the top half of her hair into two braids on either side of her head, twisting first the left braid into a low bun and was now attempting to replicate it on the right.Concentrating, she shrugged as she successfully secured the tail of her plait neatly. “I’m certain I can manage on my own. I always have.” She said and took one last look at herself, hoping the foggy, distorted image reflected off the back of a dinner plate was somewhat accurate.

When she turned to face him, Ren smiled approval at her efforts.

She was the stunning sight of nobility, even in the simple dress he’d had brought along with the shoes. It was a beautiful burgundy red, cut low, with delicate golden embroidery down the center and long open sleeves that nearly touched the ground. The dress clung to her hips as he had last night, and he found himself foolishly jealous of the bodice that cradled her breasts.

As she clasped her cape shut around her shoulders and looked up at him, Kylo felt his heart swell. She may not sport a crown yet, but she looked every bit the woman of authority she would be.

More than satisfied, the king looked away, closing his eyes in thought as the weight of his own cloak was lowered onto his shoulders.

Harold clasped the long chain across Ren’s chest with a brooch in the shape of the Sith’s emblem.

The king had chosen it specifically for this day.

Harold looked up just before stepping back, meeting the king’s gaze directly. Strange, Ren thought, he never looks at me —the signet pin had done its trick. Harold knew it’s meaning, as did Ren’s small council.

The page lowered his eyes, seemingly resigned to whatever horrors might come and went to take the crown from general Agnon who had been standing quietly at his morning station in the corner.

It must have been the generals turn (the king never kept up with the rotation) Kylo just accepted that there would always be a member of the council there to assist. It was an honor to carry the crown and Agnon seemed pleased to be here this morning. After all, the day they had been marching towards for so very long had finally arrived. To stand in the midst of the man who led them here must have felt special.

The king studied his general, giving him a small nod of approval which made the man’s chest rise with a proud breath.

“My liege” Harold said softly,

Kylo bent and let the boy place the golden circle on his head before rising up again.

Now he was complete. Armor or not, he knew that the sight of him in all the trappings made people bend to his will. He hoped for the king of Bespin’s sake that the effect would see the man humbled and the events of this day could be finished with quickly.

Rey sat and picked at the remains of her breakfast, sipping the tea Harold brought in earlier.

Setting her cup back down, she watched the strange morning rituals, amused that she could get ready in minutes on her own while this procession of generals and scared boys needed to dress a king, seemed to take hours.

The resulting effect was however worth every minute. He really was a most glorious thing.

A wide knowing smile spread across her face, her belly tingling as she remembered the king’s veneration at her holy alter last night and she had to hold in her girlish giggling. A shudder made her eyes close as the ghost of his tongue teased her and Rey opened them to admire the sight of Kylo in all that black. The color of death some might say, only on him she saw the spark of new life and a new beginning.

He would never be the king Hux and Snoke meant him to be to Rey. But he was hers, and she knew that so long as he continued to be fair and just in thinking, the people would love him easily.

Just as she did.

“My leige, we are ready to begin.” General Pryde said, stepping into the tent with a hearts salute and deep bow.

Kylo nodded and turned to her. “My lady.” He said and gave a small bow before following the men out.

Rey stood and fell into step next to his squire, as was her place for now.

She walked behind, looking wistfully at the king who led the way, marching down the center isle, the sun in his crown, his heavy black cape billowing around him.

Goodness be damned, she thought biting her lip, she would follow this man into the slaughter if he asked… no. No.

She looked away with an embarrassed smile, though none knew her thoughts but her. The pull towards darkness did seem to come so easily at times, especially when it looked like this, she thought and watched how the soldiers went to their knees as he passed, his magnificent profile catching her eye as he acknowledged his men.

“What is you name squire?” Rey asked, distracting herself as they walked. She didn’t bother to look at the boy just yet, but he turned his head to her with pure fear in his eyes.

“Rodrick.” He managed.

“Rodrick, it’s nice to meet you.” She glanced over and gave him a sweet smile, and the boy nearly fainted.

With a laugh, Rey turned the corner following the trail of king and kings-men to the horses.

They mounted up, ready to head further south than any northern king had gone, when Kylo held up his hand to make them wait.

“Rey.” He called and she gave her mare a gentle kick to pull up beside him.

He wanted them to ride together, to make a show of who she was which broke tradition. They were both certain Hux would faint at the sight, but the king had spoken, and with a quick nod of approval and a glint of excited pride for her— he gave the call to proceed.

They set out riding two by two, all of them silently moving with the confidence of conquerors.

As the procession went along through the peaceful rolling land, they were spotted by a farmer and his two small children, who were going about their daily chores.

“Is that the king papa?” The boy asked jumping up onto a half empty cart for a better look.

They all stood near the barn, eyes squinting to see the travelers on the road, the childrens' jaws dropped in wonder.

“Don’t be silly.” His sister replied, staring at the beautiful woman who rode beside the man in question. “That’s not the king, he’s someone else.”

“Thats a king” Their father said and spit “Looks like war might be starting or …” His eyes narrowed once more on the small group. “Travelin’ with his queen and no armor —funny? Looks peaceful enough.” The man shook his head as he turned away knowing he and his family would have no say in the matters of royals and war.

“If she’s a queen where’s her crown?” The boy questioned.

The father shrugged. “Probably to heavy.” He said going back to the hay that needed to be loaded.

“She looks prettier than a queen.” The girl said with a deep sigh, smiling as Rey noticed them.

The little girl waved with enthusiasm, her smile bright, her eyes sparkling with the delusions of a life at court.

Before they started down the hill, Rey raised her hand and returned the gesture with more reserve.

The girl lowered her hand and in a voice more grown up than her father had heard from her before, she spoke “She looks like the sun itself papa… pray they don’t take her light.”

#reylo au #reylo romance #medieval reylo #reylo ao3 #reylo fanfic #reylo #reylo fandom #reylo fanfiction #kylo ren is king #rey of jakku #Reylo royalty #hot and bothered #hot and heavy #just hot #probably from the fire #or all of the above

[reyloyal]

Stronghold ~ a Medieval Reylo story - chapter 5

chapter warnings 18+ only- m/f first time together, explicit detail of outdoor sex, fingering, vaginal sex, quickie so make it count!

masterlist

“What is this?” The king asked as he approached his tent. Some of the generals and Hux had gathered outside looking concerned to say the least.

The unexpected assembly yanked him from the sweet, lingering effects of his moment with Rey. He’d found it nearly impossible to leave her at the water, but responsibilities could not be ignored, so he’d pressed a kiss to her forehead and left, still feeling the warmth of her body alive in his hands as he got on with the duties of war.

“A messenger my liege” Hux answered with a bow before stepping aside.

Eyes narrowed on his chancellor, Ren glanced at the men and could see that they feared his response to whomever, or whatever lay inside.

Not one for guessing games, the king went past the men and stepped in to find a man in what looked to be holy robes, though Ren could not say. He was sitting and smiling up at him from the now empty strategy table.

“Who are you?” Ren eyed the man from the entrance, thrown by the surprise of a stranger in his camp.

He bowed before blinking up with a slice of feigned pleasantry. “I am Lobot. I come on behalf of the southern king Lando Calrissian.”

He should have guessed as much. It seems the one he left alive served is purpose. “And what brings you to my camp? Has your king given up?” He asked coming to stand across from him at the table.

Lobot shrugged just a bit, and Ren felt a strange sort of detachment about the man, as though he weren’t quite human. He was too perfect, too —efficient. The king’s suspicions rarely let him down, and so he kept his guard up, but he would let the man speak.

“Not given up. But, after our dismal showing last night, the wise king has sent me with an alternative to war.”

This day continually became more and more interesting, Kylo thought still staring at the bald man in his cream colored robes.

“In an effort to save lives, Northern and southern, we seek not just an alliance, but a truce. End the war, and my king bows to you. Let him stay on and he is yours. Simply the warden of the southern kingdom, but no longer a king.”

Ren’s dark eyes searched the smooth face. “You're not a priest are you?”

“I am not.”

“What gods do you pray to?”

“You would not know them young king”

"You pray to no one?"

"I find my solace in knowledge and in books." He said with a twitch of a smile that spiked Ren’s curiosity. “I am a learned man, but that is not why I’m here. I come on behalf of our great kingdom, which, should we all agree, can be yours without bloodshed.”

“Why?” Ren asked, nothing was ever this easy.

“Oh. I’m sorry, I have heard rumors, would you prefer to go on killing?” Lobot asked with a swipe at the kings reputation.

Ren’s lips twitched with a snarl. This strange man would loose his bald head for such blatant… the king looked away calming himself. He would not give in to that anger. “I wish to claim it. Not kill.”

Lobot smiled again. “Then it seems we have an understanding"

Understanding? Kylo scoffed at the word, but, before he could turn his nose up at the learned man, he heard Rey’s voice, and her cutting accusations of “taking it all, until there’s nothing left”

Though she seemed to feel differently now, he could not ignore the fact that Rey saw the brutality in him just as this man, Lobot did. He teased the king but there was no humor in his words. He saw a dangerous creature before him. Proud of his accomplishments as he was, Ren could not deny wanting to change this perception, if for no one else, then at least for her.

Blinking up to look at Lobot, he gave in with a sigh and a nod. “It seems you’ve talked yourself out of immediate death. I will allow you an hour to plead your cause.” He said and Lobot bowed with thanks.

“Hux!” Ren called, watching as the red hair and sharp green eyes appeared within seconds. “Bring in Pryde and Agnon. It seems we much to discuss.”

*

When the plans had been laid, the king left the tent and his men behind, feeling for the first time as though he might have made them happy without lifting his sword. It was strange, but he found it to be somewhat pleasant.

Hux was busy drafting a reply to Calrissian for Lobot to take back with him, while Ren moved through the camp, making sure that all was as it should be and ready to advance south. When the last of their things were packed and loaded, he finally had time to return his attentions to her, in one last act of preparation.

Kylo went looking until he found Rey, sitting on a stump amongst the supply wagons. She was hunched over, face serious with concentration as her deft fingers worked quickly to mend a small tear in the hem of her dress. Smiling at the common sight of a very uncommon woman, he cleared his throat, approaching Rey as though he were a nervous pupil back in the temple.

“What is it?” She asked glancing up from the needle work.

“I, assume you’d like to continue on with us? On to Bespin?” He was worried for her answer though their moment by the river should have been confirmation enough, he still needed to hear it from her.

Rey looked up, squinting against the sun. “Only so long as I am free to go whenever I wish”

He nodded. “Yes, I was right in thinking you might say that.”

“So I’m not your prisoner?” She asked cocking her brow.

Ren shook his head, that word making him shrink back. “You never were.” He said still sorry for what he’d done. “No, Rey, you may do whatever you must. But, before you decide, will you do one small thing for me?”

“I already told you I’ll help you.” She said resting her hands in her lap.

Ren shook his head again. “No, will you, accept that my first gift to you is a lowly one, but one I think you’ll appreciate nonetheless.”

Rey smiled through her suspicion “A gift?”

“A necessity.” He said and brought his hand out from behind his back. “I had hoped to give them to you sooner, but war does seem to get in the way.”

He was holding a pair of shoes. Simple but made of good leather. Perfect for travel.

“Where did you get those?” She asked standing “None of the men in your army have feet so small, none that would be willing to give me a new pair.” She said taking them, her eyes wide with the surprise, only to have another thought. Rey’s face dropped as she looked up. “Did you steal these from someone?”

His eyes went heavy at the offensive suggestion, “No. I did not steal them. I am a king not a thief.” He said with a frown, the smallest hint of amusement in his eyes. “I had some things brought along with us before we left Jakku. And I’m certain that cobbler has never seen so much gold in his life.” He grumbled.

She grinned and sat down to put them on. “I’ve not bothered in so long, I might have forgotten how to walk in them!”

She slipped her feet into the smooth leather boots that stoped just at her ankles and stood again twisting and marching in place.

The king laughed and she raised her dress to admire the dark brown leather. “Thank you.” She said and bowed her head to him. “I knew you were capable of kindness” She teased.

Ren smiled, overlooking the jape and stepped closer. “You, sweet witch, are in danger of turning me into one of these good men everyone is always talking about.” He said as if the idea were deeply upsetting.

Rey shook her head playfully, and grinned “You don’t have a chance.” She said softly not meaning a word of it as he reached over and took her hand.

They stood alone in a camp of many, connected beyond the physical. For a few seconds, nothing else existed outside of the world they shared, and it was perhaps the first time either had known the feeling of unburdened happiness since loosing the innocence of youth.

“My liege.” Hux came walking up to the pair.

Rey looked away and Kylo found the chancellor over his shoulder.

“We’re prepared to depart.” He announced.

Ren gave a single nod, waiting until Hux was gone.

Turning back to Rey, he reached up, gently cradling the back of her head as though she were precious, and she looked up, resting comfortably in his hold as he spoke.

“Are you sure you want to come?” He implored, his eyes searching. He felt such hope when he looked at her, but with a single word she could silence him and he would let her go without harm.

“Now you ask?” She chided, but her hand slipped up to grip the collar of his jacket as she had when they kissed.

“Yes, I… I don’t want you there if you don’t want to be. If you want to go home, I understand. Because Rey —once you start down this road, it will be nearly impossible for you to turn back. When the people of Bespin see you at my side…”

“At your side?” She asked letting go of his collar to curve her hand around the outside of his wrist, holding tight to his arm.

“You said the visions don’t lie?” He asked and stroked her soft hair with his thumb.

“No. They are more than visions, they are glimpses into the past and future. What was and what will be, they can not lie.”

He nodded, understanding. “Then I would have you ride along side me. You are to be my queen, and they will know it.”

*

“Will we ride until night?” Rey asked sleepily from her horse.

She’d requested the brown mare as no man was brave enough to claim it now that the witch had ridden her, which suited them both just fine.

The king, mounted on his own stallion turned his attentions to her. “We will. I want us closer.” He answered simply.

Rey nodded with a yawn and tilted her head to the left and right, stretching her sore neck and shoulders. Looking past the king’s scouts and banner men she saw the endless stretch ahead, seemingly unending.

They’d been moving further south all morning and on into the afternoon. She wasn’t sure how much ground had been covered, but Jakku was beginning to feel further from her than the sun in the sky.

She’d whispered her goodbyes into the wind before leaving the shore this morning, certain that those who could understand her words would hear the message. Yet the sense of loss for the only true home she’d ever known tugged at her heart.

“We have no intentions of stopping just yet.” Hux said from behind them on his own horse. “I suggest you get used to it, and quickly.”

Rey glanced back, having nearly forgotten he was there at all.

She looked to Kylo, who wore a tolerant smile, knowing that Hux was still very uncomfortable with her being here, even if she had helped save them all last night. Surprising to Rey, the chancellors unease with her company seemed to amuse the king who was smiling back at the man over his shoulder and she wondered how many times the king teased the stuffy lord over the years. They were so very different.

Turning back towards the road, he eased his smile, attempting to appease them both. “Hux is right.” Kylo said “After our unplanned victory —and a rather interesting turn of events— we will continue on, but not to fight. Their king played his hand poorly, still all is not lost for them” He said glancing back and Hux gave a smug, knowing smile.

“I don’t understand?” Rey said a little quieter wishing to speak only to Ren.

He looked at her, seemingly aware of her worry for more war, but there was something else bright in his eyes. He was keeping something from her, something he seemed proud of, whatever it may be.

“If I am to make a good king to you,” He said with confidence, “I will not pretend that I don’t see the wisdom in your way of doing things. I won’t —take it— per se.”

“What do you mean?” She asked, wondering instantly if she should.

“A man, came to the camp today,” He announced. “Some sort of ambassador for the palace. I’ve not given my final word on it, but a message was sent back with him asking their king to meet on neutral ground to finish talks of peace. I will offer a title to the king that will allow him to remain in power over the people, but, in subjugation to me.”

Rey was stunned into silence for a moment. Hadn’t his years at war all been with the goal to take Bespin? To become the sole king and emperor of the island —vast as it was— she had been fairly certain this was his reason for everything he’d done up until this point, and killing his enemy had been his way for so long.

Rey’s stomach fluttered with excitement, and she looked away to hide it. Perhaps she really did have an effect on the man. Was it so unbelievable that he might be changing already?

Careful to speak calmly so as not to alert Hux to her joy, she smiled at him. “You speak of a fiefdom?” She asked.

“Yes, something like that.” The king returned the smile. “I was not aware you knew of such things.”

Rey quickly looked away. Did she like this? Did this make all of Ren’s past doings a little less awful? He seemed unexpectedly intent on letting the king of Bespin live, but to take away another man’s entitlements seemed an awful thing to do. Though she was opposed to the entire structure of hierarchal rule no matter what, she had to wonder if this was his first step towards being a better king.

Rey watched the way he rode his horse, with the ease and high carriage of a man undefeated. He was so striking in his black finery and very different to her now- in such contrast to the arrogant man who first walked into her forest … but was he? Really?

Still feeling their kiss from this morning on her lips, she knew for her own sake that she very much needed it to be true.

Hux was grumbling that the king should be a little more careful with their plans, as if Rey might still pose a threat —even after saving his skinny hide. Annoyed, she turned her eyes back to the road, still uneasy with the weight of politicking on her shoulders after living a life free of mens battles for land and titles. It was a harsh reminder of the path she’d chosen and in her silence she tried to find peace with it.

Rey blocked all of them out for a while, just letting her senses get lost in this beautiful country and the nature she found herself immersed in.

The trees here looked different from the ones in her woods and she found it odd to be in a place no longer familiar. The sensation of traveling into such foreign worlds was fascinating.

Even the grass was different. Long, thin, pale blades of blue-green bent in the wind, waving like the sea. There was something very calming about it, and sad. The sway somehow reminded her of loss and of regret. But the way the sun warmed the plains gave her a sense of hope too.

She thought back to home and how everything in the village was either dust before the rains, or mud after. Her woods were the only source of beauty before, but now, out in the wide world, it seemed to be all around her, and she found herself thinking of Ren’s initial command for her to come with him.

She’d been so afraid of leaving what she knew, for fear that nothing would compare to what she’d imagined lay beyond the borders of the village, but this was stunning.

As they went along side a high hill to the west, and the open ocean of grass to the east, she inhaled the scent of nature, longing to be free to explore it. Kylo would not stop her, but there was danger out there too.

Her heightened senses could always feel the humming of life, a vibration of the undercurrents. Things that other people could not feel or hear, she could often sense it all.

Looking over at the king, Rey could see that he was aware of it too by the tension in his shoulders. There was a look about it —the look of one sensitive to the unknown— and she decided to test him a bit for a better understanding of how deep his magic went.

“What do you think is out there?” She asked, both of them looking to the vast fields and forests on the horizon as they moved along.

Kylo thought about this for a while. “Things you and I have never seen. Things that would kill us if given the chance.”

Her voice took on the tone of teacher as she added, “Animals, creatures wild and beautiful. Protecting their home, their young. Just as we do.”

He snickered.

Rey bristled at the sound and looked at him, angry. “Oh, yes, that’s right, you don’t do it to protect, you do it for sport, to claim what others have."

The king settled back in the saddle. “That’s not a fair accusation” He said with an irritating smile.

“No, but an honest one.” She snapped.

“My lady, please, remember that you are in the presence of his majesty our king” Hux interrupted, glaring at Rey from behind them. He was scolding her but was clearly unsure of the relationship between them and how much he could say without spiking Ren’s temper.

She realized then that the way she spoke to the king was perhaps a bit informal and gave Hux a nod of acknowledgement to pacify the chancellor.

“You should not laugh at things you do not understand… your majesty” She over enunciated and Ren’s shoulders shook with a silent laugh.

“Forgive me Rey, I am still your diligent student.” He said, waiting for a smile. When she gave him nothing more than silence, she felt the king reach out from his mount beside hers and stroke her face with the back of his gloved hand. The open display of affection made her go stiff for a moment, out of fear or surprise, she could not say, but it worked and she looked over at him, the angry shell cracking.

Her heart soared rebelliously, though she had given up trying to tame it. He had a softer smile now, one that held the secret of their kiss, and she gazed at his lips, then up into his eyes. By the stars, she swore she’d never seen another man so beautiful in her life.

Funny, she thought looking ahead again, Hux so wanted her to fall in line, to see the order of things as she should, but Rey, having never been in the company of lords and ladies, or chancellors and kings, did not think to treat them with the reverence they were so used to.

It was not for lack of understanding what was expected from a commoner, she’d simply never believed in the system. She did try for a moment to look at Kylo as she should, according to Hux. To see him as a powerful, frightening lord, like he was too so many. A feared king anointed by the gods of the Sith…

Rolling her eyes at the instantly failed attempt she held back a snicker.

Kylo Ren would will bleed if cut. He laughs and cries like all the rest and he will one day die. Yes, he is beautifully made, but still flesh and blood like every solider marching behind him.

He is also the man she kissed by the river. She would kiss him again and more as soon as they were alone.

Keeping her smile to herself, Rey pushed her more, lascivious thoughts aside and settled back. Hux had been right about one thing. If she were going to make this journey she’d better get used to life on the road.

When the caravan did eventually stop it was only so the men could repair a broken cart wheel and water the horses. Rey was relieved for the small break from traveling no matter what it was for.

She was offered something to eat by Harold, who after last night, seemed to have shed all fear and prejudice of the woman. He was beaming as she took the bread and meat, bowing to her before turning to join his fellow soldiers who laughed at the poor boy.

Rey smiled at his youthful enthusiasm and found a log to —gently— sit and enjoy the food. They would be on the road again soon, and the thought made her cringe. She adored her sweet horse, but riding in a saddle for so long was having a horrible effect on her thighs and backside.

Stretching her legs out long from her seat, Rey let a small moan of relief rumble in her throat.

It felt glorious to flex her muscles and rotate her ankles, moving against the fixed position of riding. She was lost in the stretch when she realized that Ren was and had been watching her.

Looking up from under her brow, they locked eyes and she repressed a smile.

He was sitting across from her with a few of the soldiers on a workers bench someone had tossed down and Rey felt her natural want for him stir uncontrollably, even more so than it had by the river.

Especially when he looked at her like this.

Kylo had the habit of eyeing her like a predator stalking prey and she wondered if he was aware….but of course he is, she thought narrowing her gaze, he knows exactly what he’s doing, and what will eventually come of it.

The joy in that first kiss had been overwhelming and the resulting daydreams of the king would not be kept at bay. Even with him riding next to her all day, she found herself drifting off to think of the way he used his mouth to kiss her, how he held her tightly enough to keep her standing before him, but was gentle enough to show he cared. She imagined what it would feel like to kiss him without so many layers of clothing between them, and what he might look like once they were completely shed.

Rey felt her ears burn hot with a hint of embarrassment as she feared her increasingly wanton imagination would show on her face and betray her thoughts to him.

She would not fault herself for it though, the mutual energy between them could not be ignored now that the idea of more had been left dangling like low fruit, taunting them both.

Rey sat her plate down and took a drink of water, letting it trickle down her throat as she watched the king over the rim of her cup.

The visual stimulation brought back the taste of him, vibrant on her tongue, but the memory was refreshed by more than just sight… she shut her eyes for a second taking a deep breath.

Opening them, Rey lowered the cup and scanned his massive form with a sly smile realizing it was her keen sense of smell. She could easily pick up the king’s specific scent, most notably musk —distinctly male—which mixed with the fading copper of blood, and —she closed her eyes and inhaled once more— well worn leather.

When the trio blended with his striking looks, she could feel that primal urge stirring deep in her belly.

Kylo chewed slowly, drawn in by her quiet gaze. Resting his arms on his thighs he sat his plate down in the grass between them, his food forgotten. Chewing still, he sat up straight and continued looking at the woman.

The thrill of being observed like this made her blush, it was enjoyably amusing, but, what could be done in a camp full of soldiers.

She pressed her lips in a tight smile, rolled her eyes and sat her plate down before standing to leave them, deciding it best to get away from the king before they forgot themselves and the very present company.

Fresh herbs to assist with the men still recovering from last nights battle would be a perfect distraction, after all, a hunt for medicinal plants always cleared her head.

She quickly found a basket in one of the carts and walked off into the nearby forest.

Her departure grabbed the attention of more men than just her intended, and they all turned their heads to watch her go.

The king took her leaving as an invitation, and not long after she’d gone, he followed Rey into the dense forest, ignoring the wide eyed and curious stares of his soldiers.

Fairly certain he’d understood what was happening between them, and quite desperate to be right, Kylo searched for a few minutes, relieved that she’d not gone too far, as the wheel would be fixed soon, and his army would be waiting, but this, he thought coming up on the witch, would not.

Rey was picking at some weeds he knew nothing of, but was sure she’d tell him they could work wonders on the worst of ailments.

“Are you trying to follow me?” She asked looking up at him from her crouched position amongst the leaves and moss and black soil.

He smiled, not at her words but at the sight of this wild thing who would be queen, her beauty effortless and as natural as this forest.

Her hands and nails were dirty from digging in the damp earth, and she’d tried to pull her hair back out of necessity with a thin strip of cloth, but long strands hung rebelliously in her face. She was clean after the river this morning, but her dress was not and Kylo thought of the women at court, everything always in perfect condition, not a hair out of place. There were good women among them to be sure, but none could compare to this one, with her new shoes already muddy and a streak of dirt along her cheek.

He found himself remembering the feel of clean linen and cool silk against his own skin at home in Alderaan. When not living in camps or knee deep in battle he walked the halls of his castle as pristine as those women. He felt silly thinking of himself that way after seeing Rey so unburdened by the weight of such unimportant frills. It was like taking a breath of this clear country air; she was so connected to the world, though she’d lived her entire life apart from it. He envied her as much as he was fascinated by her.

She stood and brushed the dirt from her hands, still looking at him the way she had in camp. There was something irresistible in knowing that they would claim one another some day. That, if her visions were true, as he hoped them to be, he would see her rule along side him. This fact alone had him ready to strip her of her dress and toss her down into the dirt, where he would beg her for no more than a glimpse of his future hidden between her legs, if she would not have him yet.

“Not trying.” He finally replied, imagining that Rey would be the sort to make him crawl while he begged. “I am.”

She knew her power over him, and if she didn’t, she soon would.

Her eyes flashed nervous excitement as she leaned to the side, looking around him. “Your men will worry and come looking.” She warned.

“They know where I am” He answered, closing in on her.

Rey retreated with a smile, so he advanced.

“What are you doing?” She asked, her hand out behind her as she backed away, blindly feeling for something to grab onto. One look into his eyes and she knew the answer, though she’d been expecting a verbal reply, not a physical one and gasped when he reached out, grabbing her by the waist to pull her close with a single hand.

“Whatever you’d like.” He answered simply.

Rey bit down on her lip, tugging at her smile as her eyes darted from his beautiful face to his body.

Kylo could see her hesitation intertwined with wanting him and he wondered for a moment if she’d ever had a man before. If not, he would gladly be her first, but perhaps not like this.

“Are you a virgin?” He asked bluntly, though the smile at the corners of his mouth showed he was more curious than concerned.

Rey looked off, her eyes wide at his carefree attitude towards the normally taboo subject. She was nervous to answer and he knew then that she was not.

Shaking her head just a little, Rey glanced up at him and saw Kylo’s sly smile. “Please, do not mistake my time raised in a temple for ignorance, I know what men and women do long before marriage.” He said, the tone in his voice making it clear that he’d done most of the things he spoke of “Mortal men give us the gods’ rules so that we may break them.” He said and she smiled, relieved that he was not held captive by silly ideas of morality. “I would have you, virgin or not. It means nothing. But, will you still have me?” He asked.

The question surprised her and Rey looked up with her brow raised. She thought it funny he felt the need to ask and decided to show him as he’d just done to her, using her body in place of words.

Rey let the basket drop to the dirt and wrapped her arms around his neck, rising up on her toes to kiss him with a passion he’d not felt from her yet.

There was such an urgency in her kiss. The way she opened her mouth against his felt like she was hungry for him. As though the overwhelming connection tethering their bodies had finally consumed her.

Kylo’s mouth spread into a smile against her lips. Taking her in his arms, he lifted the young witch easily and wrapped her long legs around his waist in turn. The strength in her thighs as she held tight made him pause, and he knew he was well matched in this woman.

Slipping his hand up the back of her neck he gently took a fistful of her hair and eased her head back to expose the soft arch of her neck.

Breathing heavy at the sight, Kylo lightly trailed the fingers of his free hand down her skin and along the ridge of her collar bone.

A high pitched gasp escaped her lips as he wrapped his arms tight around her again and buried his face in the curve where his touch still warmed her skin. He kissed so hard there that she gave a squeal and reflexively tucked her ear to her shoulder to keep him away, though the feeling sent a wonderful tingling down her spine and made her laugh.

Kylo sighed against the hollow of her throat. “Rey,” He said, his words muffled, “I can not leave here without having you.” He waited,  feeling hopeful as her chin lowered and her eyes met his.

She very calmly let her elbow rest on his shoulder, her hand hanging in front of his face, and brushed his hair back with a finger. She sat comfortably in his hold and gazed into the many colors that created the hazel of his eyes while judging him —not as king or soldier— but as a man.

Kylo feared he was not worthy, but the look in her eyes changed ever so slightly as she slid her hand over his head and through his hair, giving a small but confident nod to continue.

The kiss resumed more gently now but quickly melted into long, slow movements made of rolling tongues and the biting of lips, the sting eased by the hard press of one soft mouth against another until the tension between them was radiating.

Kylo pulled from the kiss with the sort of pent up aggression Rey felt wonderfully powerless to as he grabbed her chin.

Holding her face steady, he took a few steps and pushed her up against a tree, fixing her between it and his own body.

His fingers pressed into her flawless skin as he stared into her eyes, the heavy knowledge of who she was and who she would become making her all the more beautiful to him.

His hand slid from her face to her neck as he let her feel his solid length against the inside of her thigh teasing her still hidden sex.

She took a deep breath as he moved ever so slightly- just a small showing of what he would do to her as he brushed her hair back from her face, needing to see her clearly.

Rey’s lips, wet from licking them, sparkled in the sunlight, and parted as she sighed from his slow rise against her. He watched her eyes flutter shut as he pushed.

The sight of her, lost in the haze of wanting him made the king grit his teeth. His jaw set as he felt a sense of determination and he eyed her lips once more. If she were wet here… Ren smiled and reached under.

He pulled at her dress until it bunched between her waist and the tree and cupped the soft skin of her backside to keep her in place. Easily accessed, Kylo ran his hand lightly along the underside of her thigh until he came to the touch of soft hair and then the prize he sought, which he’d refused to think of for the sake of his own sanity- until now.

His breath hitched as he let his fingers find her, moaning approval in harmony with Rey.

He stroked at the soft resistance of her labia, marveling at the silken skin and heat that covered his fingertips when he parted her.

Running his middle finger back and forth, he enjoyed the slippery feel until the sounds she made encouraged him to turn his wrist.

Kylo inhaled and pushed beyond the protest of her tight sex with his index, penetrating until she shivered and relaxed against the size of his finger making him sigh.

Rey was not shy in voicing her approval of the somewhat gentle pumping, and how he stroked her tight walls from the inside. Her sounds in direct response to his attentions made it clear that she enjoyed it as much as he liked pleasing her.

Holding Rey firm, keeping her high against the tree and ready, Kylo pulled his hand away, bringing it up and back down between them to grab her soft mound. He gently exposed the sensitive peak he could find with skill, and smiled when she gasped. Her eyes opening  with with the shock of being touched there before squeezing shut again.

He circled her most sensitive skin, closing his eyes to focus on the tiny hard press against his fingers. He reached just enough to feel the way her opening pulsed wetness and listened as her light breaths became a near pant before taking his hand away to quickly flick open his pants, freeing his painfully hard length to the cool air.

Taking Rey’s hand from his shoulder Kylo slid it up around his neck and Rey followed his lead, raising the other to hold onto him, her fingers interlacing under his hair.

The king fixed his focus on her wishing to see the change in her face when it happened. That moment when he would enter and invade her like he did to all the things he’d ever taken.

Moving just as he had with his hand, Kylo tortured himself by grazing his own sensitive skin back and forth across her slick divide until her eyes rolled shut and she turned her hips up nearly begging him for more.

Unable to prolong it, he pushed, overwhelmed with no more than an inch of himself inside and paused. She was hot to the touch, and tight enough to make him stop for a moment.

Bracing with his free hand on the rough bark behind her, Kylo leaned forward. He let his weight pin her perfectly, moaning deeply as he thrust, slowly up and in.

Forcing his own eyes open again, he watched her face contort the more of him she swallowed. And then her eyes sprang open with a different sort of sound that made him stop.

“Am I hurting you?” He asked, his voice tight and breathless.

Rey looked into his eyes, unsure of how to answer. It was clear that while she was no virgin, she’d not done this in some time.

Very much aware of his considerable size, Kylo smiled and pressed his forehead to hers, kissing her gently until Rey began to relax in his arms and around him.

With his mouth still on hers, he began to push beyond her pain, inhaling her muffled cries, until she felt the pleasure and Rey let out a long sweet moan against his lips.

His own sounds were that of relief as the warm sensation spread like honey up to his chest, gripping his heart as he pulled from the kiss.

She, was not like any other, he thought letting her settle on top of him. He’d had many, but not one of them had ever made his heart ache like this.

His first full thrust saw her cry out again, only to laugh it away. The sound a delicious release of complete joy which gave him the freedom to move.

Grabbing that firm, perfectly round backside with both hands now, he held her immobile, willing her to feel as good as he.

Rey’s head fell forward onto his shoulder, bobbing as her enthusiastic response became louder the harder he worked. He thought of the camp full of soldiers for a moment but quickly forgot them as she tossed her head back.

Camp be damned, he thought looking up at her in awe as she bounced.

She was too beautiful, too perfect and he would fuck her until she screamed and the sound would echo across the far mountains —he grinned, laughing silently at himself and the ridiculous things one finds themself saying.

Reaching between them, the king grabbed at her breast, hating the high neckline of her dress as he wanted nothing more than to see her laid bare for him. But the firm outline of her hard nipples was enough, and he smiled like a filthy lech knowing It would be over in seconds, if he didn’t stop.

Kylo groaned as he lifted Rey up and pulled away, freeing her of the perch and set her down on the ground.

“Turn around.” He grunted and she did instantly, bracing against the tree.

He tossed her skirts back up and grabbed her waist with a hand as he found her again and recklessly shoved inside to her blinding delight, the length of him reaching so deep into her womb she gave a beautiful cry.

His hands smacked against her hips and held tight, the force of his thrust making her flesh bounce against him. Rey’s back arched perfectly to accept him, and he looked down with a deep rumble in his throat at the sight of his cock spreading her wide with the relentless pounding.

Letting go of her waist, Kylo pulled her back, aggressively enveloping the witch’s body. He felt it small and bouncing in the hold of one arm, grabbing her with the other by the crook of her elbow.

Her open mouth made no sound and he could feel the breath held high in her chest. Her heartbeat pounded under his palm that cupped her breast, and he could take no more. The king found the rhythm that would see him empty into her.

He quickly grabbed both her arms, pulling her close and buried his face in her hair, groaning heavy as he came in waves of hot release.

The last pulse saw him spent and he stopped moving but held her close, their breathing still too quick.

Her soft moans went on and had him wondering if it were actually possible to continue…

But no, this was enough for now. It would have to be, though the feel of his seed dripping down his own shaft and onto her leg threatened to make him ready again.

As their hearts slowed and the sound of birds chirping loudly in the distance grew, Rey finally spoke “My lord…” She whispered, her throat dry and raspy, and his eyes opened, surprised to hear her so formal. “My king.” She finished with a heavy sigh and a deep rolling laugh that vibrated in his arms.

He smiled, flattered and amused by her and pulled away satisfied.

Rey turned her back to the tree, resting against it as though her legs would give out at any moment. Her eyes closed, as she tried to catch her breath, skin glowing a healthy pink.

“Are you alright?” He asked tugging his pants back on, still not settled himself.

Rey opened an eye and looked up at him, giving a little nod as he leaned down to kiss her gently.

“Is this how the witches do it?” He asked with a grin inches from her mouth.

“Do what?”

“Make themselves queen. By fucking in the woods?”

Rey laughed and pulled away, “Actually, yes, but no, not at all. There’s blood and oaths and all sorts of things to scare away the common folk.” She said, eyes sparkling.

He smiled but felt there was a hint of truth in that statement.

As they collected themselves, Rey stoped and looked up at him. “Are you always so free with your… love?” She asked rolling her eyes —shy in spite of what they’d just done.

“Am I what?” He asked and laughed as he raked his hair back.

She was embarrassed but went on. “I expect a king would just go around bedding any woman available. I do fear being your choice simply from lack of options.”

His smile faded then and he reached out taking her hand. “Don’t say that” He was aware of his serious tone by the look on her face and was glad for it,  he did truly mean it. And good, he thought, I want her to know how it is. “It’s not that way for me Rey, not with you. You’re not like the others. And to some man out there all the women before you are important and loved, but for me, it’s only you.”

Her ears perked at the mention of love and he saw her flinch in a way that was more excitement than worry. But she would not let it go so easily. “Still, you don’t know me,” She insisted “Not truly.” And there was the regret he’d been looking for when he’d kissed her the first time. Shame it should come out now.

“I will,” He tried to assure her “And what I know of you already, I can not imagine being without.” He reached over to cradle her cheek.

Rey sighed, her eyes closing with the comfort of his words and he was pleased to see her understand.

Expecting the moment to continue, and even toying with the idea of telling her exactly how he felt, the king was suddenly alarmed when she opened her eyes again and an awful look of fear drained the color from her face.

“Rey? What is it?” He asked gripping her shoulder.

She could only nod towards something, something alive behind him.

Yes, he could sense it. Animal, and wild.

Turning, holding her at his back, Ren looked up at the bear. A great brown beast with teeth bared and claws up as if to show that it could slice his belly with a single stroke if it so desired.

“Stay still, stay behind me.” He said quietly.

Rey’s hands dug into his ribs as she peered around him. “Make it go” She said.

“I, don’t have my sword.” He confessed cursing his cock for making him so careless.

“You don’t need it.” She advised, and Ren looked back to the massive animal, twice his height which was truly impressive if not one of the most terrifying things he’d ever seen. Something here must make them grow to such a size. The bears near Alderaan were impressive but this was nearly unnatural.

“Weapons are not our only defense. You and I have persuasion, which can be very powerful!” She whispered loudly.

He tried to make sense of what was happening, and of her words, only to understand with a flash of awareness.

He wasn’t sure how to do what she’d said, but he knew he could reach the animal.

Focusing his efforts on staying calm, the king held up his hands to show he had no weapon.

The bear growled a low long bellow and showed its yellow teeth once more before falling forward onto all fours.

Kylo stood straight, Rey gasping behind him

This was an attack stance, the animal was ready to advance.

“Stop the bear Kylo.”

“I can not” He confessed, ignoring the shame.

“Yes you can. Reach within, free your mind. The forces that bind the magic to us are powerful. Use them.” She insisted.

The bear snorted shaking its head, growling before it took a step.

“Now!” She shouted.

The impact of his invisible blow to the lunging bear caused the animal to fall back, as though he’d hit it with his own fist.

“Don’t hurt it!” She scolded.

He growled with frustration and focused again, this time on changing the bear’s attention.

It was as though he reached out and placed the idea in the animals mind.

It slowly stood, recovered from the hit, and looked at them. It’s black eyes scanned the threat, then, as if deciding it simply had something else to do, the bear shook its great body, tossing it’s weight as if trying to rid itself of the magic and turned to run off, fleeing into the deep woods.

The king gave a shout of triumph, laughing as Rey smiled behind him.

The joy however was short lived, for when the bear moved, it revealed Hux and the generals standing with swords drawn.

King and chancellor locked eyes, staring at one another for far too long.

“Chancellor. It seems you would have been too late.” Ren said, his voice of authority strong as he waited for Rey to grab her basket.

She took the hand he offered to help her over a log and they met the men head on.

“My lord, it would seem you’ve no need for our help —in defeating a bear? ”Hux said, his suspicious nature alive and well, though he was treading on dangerous ground.

Hux, you are my friend, Kylo thought looking into the green eyes of his man, please don’t pry “No, it seems I don’t.” He said stepping closer.

The inch or two in height difference that separated them could feel like a foot when Ren wanted it to, but today it seemed Hux did not want to back down.

How much had he seen? Ren wondered.

“We’re lucky you and your men showed up to scare it away.” Rey interjected rather sweetly. She placed herself between them, with her hand on Ren’s chest to urge him back down.

Hux slowly pulled his eyes away from the king to glance at the woman. “Yes, well, perhaps you should keep your weed gathering to a minimum and within view of the men.” He warned her. “Putting a king in danger is a criminal offense my lady.” And that was a threat.

Rey’s strong push was there again before Kylo could say another word, and in his wisdom, he let the woman lead him away.

“Have you any reason to doubt his allegiance?” She asked when they were far enough gone.

They looked at one another and Rey felt the intense urge to protect him and be protected in the same breath. She could feel the results of their first time together, wet and sticky on her thighs. It made her heart flutter to walk among the army with his seed secretly dripping along her skin. She felt such a connection to the man now that this physical bond had been made. Rushed or not, it was powerful, and she would not see him threatened, but how could she protect him from those he would call friend?

Turning his attention to the nearing encampment, Kylo shook his head. “I have reason to doubt everyone.” He said with the reserve of a king who understood the world he’d created.

*

Rodrick watched them mounting up, thankful he’d been wise enough to sneak into the woods after them.

He’d always been incredible at hiding, and now it seemed he was good enough to spy on the king himself, though in all fairness the man had been occupied.

Out of respect and a boyish fear of sex, Rodrick had turned his back and hid in the shadows of the trees, thankfully far enough away to only hear a few of the witch’s most, boisterous yelps.

Thinking he’d only been able to confirm their relationship, the squire had nearly gone back to the camp, but the sight of that great beast coming towards them had kept him frozen in place with fear and the threat of piss down his leg to shame him.

The only thing more spectacular than seeing an animal like that had been watching the king defeat the bear using nothing more than magic.

Rodrick could hardly believe Ren was capable of such a thing, but he’d seen it with his own two eyes.

Awed by it, the boy nearly forgot his mission until he heard the small council approach and managed to dash away before they could spot him.

Ever the faithful servant, he’d quickly gone and written about his findings to Snoke. Deceiving the raven keep into letting him send a letter to his family on urgent business had very nearly not worked, but the man was a sentimental sort and gave Ren’s squire permission to toss a bird into the sky.

Rodrick had gotten back just in time to mount his horse and await the King’s orders.

Now he sat in the saddle watching them with pride for his efforts.

Incredible or not, magic had it place and it was certainly not with his king.

*

General Hux could not stop looking at the pair. He found himself glaring at the way they rode side by side as though she’d already been crowned, and wondered if the king was in fact under her spell.

He was not a jealous man, but having his concerns dismissed for the company of a woman was hard to accept. He’d been by Ren’s side since Snoke noticed young Armitage’s penchant for order and devotion to authority. He’d taken him off the path to priesthood and assigned Hux to the king himself.

Thankfully the king was a man ruled by basic emotions. Anger and sadness were the ones that had survived the others and Hux used them to his, and the kings advantage. These were Ren’s traits that he could work with. But this new — thing— forming between the king and the witch was impossible to control.

She might completely sway him from his very strict course which could lead to disaster…after all they had a plan! After the visit from the wiseman Lobot this morning, it was a plan Hux found to be more solid than any previous.

Take the southern kingdom, establish their hold over the people, leave the ward to watch over the new subjects (along with some of Ren’s best men for stability and a show of strength) and return home to Alderaan with Kylo as king over the largest swath of land ever known.

It was beautiful. It would not fail. He, would not let it.

Hux found himself remembering how Snoke had blessed them before they left. The nearly endless ceremony had even come with a grand send off through the streets of Alderaan, the people cheering their departure after Snoke worked them into a frenzy with his speech. Surely their continued success was that blessing manifested. Ren wouldn’t throw it all away on her would he?

Hux had thought the king to be thankful for his place in the world, and for Snoke’s care. After all, he offered something neither could achieve on their own. The holy man filled the people with the idea of divine right, and a sense that they, the subjects under this god-king, were worthy of living in the capitol city while the conquerer went out to claim the world.

Claim the world, Kylo Ren, Hux thought with his keen eyes fixed on the king.

The world my liege —not a woman.

#reylo ao3 #reylo smut #medieval reylo #reylo au #reylo fanfic #reylo #reylo love #reylo romance #the force is magic #kylo ren is king #rey is a witch

[reyloyal]

Stonghold ~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 4

warnings and summary - period typical violence and a magical brush with death- masterlist

There was shouting, far off but still too near… this was strange, she could never hear people from the village this deep into the woods.

Frowning in her sleep, Rey stirred against the threat of invasion.

Confused as to why her protection spell was not working and had allowed so many people to cross into her forest, her eyes sprang open.

The sight of him, asleep on his back, head tilted towards her with his black hair swept to one side, stunned her for a moment before it all came flooding back.

No. Rey groaned and shut her eyes tight.

She’d fallen asleep again...

Trying to remember it happening, she thought back. There was the warm fire, her full stomach and —his hand— heavy on her hip, but unmoving. Not aggressive or invasive, just comfortable, making it all too easy to drift off.

As she looked on his still sleeping face, Rey remembered it being the last thing she saw before succumbing to the night.

The shouting from outside increased, and a surge of fear mingled with the absolute disappointment of finding herself so far from home and she wished very badly to just disappear in that moment, but she knew no such magic, and the commotion outside would not stop.

The king was awake. She realized when his eyes opened that he actually had been for some time. “Stay here” He commanded, head still on the pillows.

Before she could ask him what was wrong, Kylo was up and dressing. She could find no time to form words as he tore through the room, pulling on his clothes as his squire Rodrick came running in to assist with his amor. "There's no time" He snapped pushing the boy aside to grab his boots. He shoved them on and pulled his padded doublet on over his shirt before taking his belted sword. In a rush he was gone, and Rodrick gone with him.

The space felt like a void without him in it. Alone in the tent, Rey sat up and listened.

The men shouting were Ren’s soldiers. She could tell by the way they gave hurried updates to one another, calling out things as they ran past.

She heard snippets of their shouting, words like "cowards", and "attack".

Rey got up and walked slowly towards the entrance still trying to understand the severity of the situation.

More men were awake now by the sound of it, and many shouted with urgent calls to “find them” and to take up arms.

The deep bellow of a war horn sounded once, long and loud and Rey felt a wave of true fear wash over her, as hot as boiling water.

Not willing to die in the tent of the king, she took a breath and stepped out into the fray.

Near chaos had ensued, and Rey, swept up in the stream of soldiers running towards the south field, could do nothing but run along with them.

“What’s happening!” She shouted to a younger man beside with her.

He looked shocked by her presence but answered.

“There’s been an ambush! They must have known we were coming!”

Fuck. She stopped running, and was nearly trampled by the raucous men.

Rey pressed her fingers to her lips to hide the grin, ignoring the way she was shoved and knocked about.

This was her chance.

Ren would be so busy with the attack, she could sneak away and be home in a few days if she took to the woods and stayed off the path to avoid being followed.

Smiling freely with her first true chance of escape, Rey turned and began to fight against the current.

There was a break in the surge of soldiers and she pushed, tumbling out of the stampede, falling between the tents and scrambling to her feet before managing to get around back.

Finding her footing, she took off in a mad dash, running blind in the dark with the hope of escape, flying under tent ropes, past the remaining soldiers who saw her but were too focused on the fight ahead to care.

Finally, she reached the makeshift horse enclosure, and went for the first animal she could find that was already saddled.

The horse was a plain brown mare that seemed calm enough, so Rey whispered a few sweet words to the animal and stroked her velvet nose as she gathered the reins.

Quickly she led the horse out, shut the crude fence and with some difficulty, mounted up.

She’d lived alone in the forest since she was six years old and would often imagine soaring on the backs of eagles and riding the wings of dragon flies in her innocence, but never once had she considered a horse, as those were beast of burden and escorts of the wealthy. Her experience in riding reached back as far as yesterday. And that time had not been an attempt to escape. She could only hope her body would adapt and learn quickly.

“Fly girl, fly.” She said with a grin and steered the mare towards the dark hills behind them.

The sensation was incredible. The air rushed past her so quickly she decided then and there to keep the horse and learn how to ride properly, but for now, she kept her head down and gripped the saddle with her thighs, the feel of the animal’s powerful strides coursing through her body.

As the pair crested the hill, the sound of swords clashing and men screaming rang out across the dark field and, for some horrible reason, Rey felt compelled to stop the horse.

She looked back over her shoulder, making out the scene in the dark.

From here she could see it all though not clearly. The moon was too high tonight and the sky too full of clouds. But there was in fact an ambush.

It seems the people of Bespin had been prepared for Ren’s arrival and were not the least bit willing to let their kingdom fall.

They’d chosen to make their own offer, she thought with a smile. Good for them.

Rey watched for as long as she dared before realizing with some disappointment, that she was in fact looking for him, but all the armored men looked the same from here.

Except for that one.

Squinting to see in the dark, Rey focused on the figure that made the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end.

He fought like the others, but he wore no protection, just a long robe, and all around him, was a blueish light that emanated from his body like rippling waves in the air. But he was no spirit guide like Ahsoka or the others who had been with her over the years. This one, was very much alive.

Curious now, she did her best to keep the horse steady as she watched the strange man wield his sword which he used to stop any who closed in on him with impressive skill, but she was most fascinated by the invisible punch of strength he threw that knocked two men to the ground at a time.

She had done the same as a child when she’d been threatened by a couple of farmers, determine to kill the little witch who they blamed for the death of their cattle.

This person was like her.

He continued to take out Rens’ soldiers with little effort, slowly making his way down into the camp.

It was then that shouting from the wide middle row between the tents took her attention, though she feared letting the mage out of her sight. But when she did, relief pulled a sigh from her lungs as she found the king, hacking down enemies like a man possessed.

That broad sword could nearly cut bodies in half with him swinging it.

He was however, making his way unknowingly towards the magic bearer, who continued tossing victims aside like rag dolls.

Rey’s muscles twitched with an urgent need to join the fight, which she quickly suppressed.

Scowling at the idea, appalled that she would feel even a twinge of sympathy for Ren, she remained safely away. But there was no mistaking the level of power coming from the mage, and he was nearly within striking distance of the king —just as Kylo Ren had been over the years during so many wars— she reminded herself.

He’d stood within deadly distance to countless people, innocent and not. He was a killer, a man raised to level kingdoms, claiming them in his name, fueled by the goading praise of his court.

He should die, she insisted, nudging the horse down the hill just a bit. He should die, and the world will only be rid a shit king, and nothing more.

She was now half way down the hill in spite of her determination not to intervene.

The mage and Ren made it to one another.

Holding her breath Rey watched from too far away to stop it.

They were in a standoff, and Rey felt certain she knew who would come out alive.

The mage swept his hand through the air as if backhanding the king, though he stood nearly ten feet away, and the unseen blow knocked Ren to his knees, his sword falling at his side.

“No” She growled, angry at the man who threatened him, and herself for knowing she could not leave the king to die like this.

Quickly, Rey kicked the horse into a gallop.

Down into the camp she rode, clinging for her life to the beast without slowing, rushing past the tents, ignoring the men fighting around her, some leaping from her path just in time.

The horse reared with a scream, furious at the harsh way she pulled the reins in an effort to stop.

The appearance of the woman in white, sat atop the upright horse, seemed to slow time.

Her furious eyes fixed on the glowing mage who forgot his attack, intrigued by the sight of an unarmored woman in the middle of a war, he, like the others, stood frozen, watching her.

The fighting died down in a slow wave as the strange happenings drew the attention of both armies, until all were still, their rivalry set aside.

Rey slid from the horse, nearly falling before she charged past Ren who was coming around from the blow.

“Enough! She shouted, her hand up.

Sparks, like the start of a white fire lit in her palm until the lighting crackled and grew as she raised her other hand and flung it forward, knocking the mage back a few feet.

She pressed on refusing to give him a chance to gain footing.

The man was twice her height with long silver hair and willowy limbs. He raised his head from his landing place on the ground and watched as the woman brought her hands up once more, sparks threatening him again.

He pushed up to standing and raised his own bony fingers, taking the stance of a fighter, and met her bright light with a fiery yellow.

“Stop this!” She demanded, but the look in the eyes of her opponent told her he had no intentions of letting it end peacefully. “We’re the same you and I.” She lowered her hands a bit. “We should be united, not fighting their wars! Do not defend men who care nothing for you, or me. We don’t have to do this.”

The man smiled at her then, his long face warm in the light of his magic.

“Bold words —foolish— but bold.” He said in a clear, strong voice.

Rey shook her head, frustrated by the violence. “Just go, stop this now and no more men will die. You do not have to die tonight!”

“You threaten me witch? You dare to strike me with your foul magic and then attempt to call for peace? You fight for a king spreading darkness, a king who would cut you down with little remorse? No, you will die, and you may die beside your damned king if you wish.”

Rey sighed.

Why must they always kill each other, why must men always decide who lives and who dies. Could nothing ever be settled over civil talks, a warm drink, perhaps a little wine, a nice meal and agreements made…

He hit her with a force that made her brain rattle in her skull.

Moaning in agony from the attack, Rey opened her eyes. She felt the world spin as she pushed up to sitting, her stomach lurching as she tried to stay steady on her arms.

Fighting against the awful after effects of being struck, she looked up just in time to watch Kylo stagger to his feet, the tip of his sword dragging in the dirt as he forced himself forward, still alive in spite of the blow that would have killed any other man.

“Stay down!” The mage shouted at him shocked that he’d managed to rise.

Ren said nothing, just did what came naturally, which was to strike. And strike he did. He moved so fast, the thin man had no time to defend himself and the king quickly cut him across the chest, though he’d been aiming for his head.

The mage managed to throw a retaliatory surge of magic forward as he stumbled to the ground from the near fatal wound. It knocked Ren back, but not off his feet this time as he seemed to deflect the blow.

Awed by the kings resilience, Rey slowly stood, watching him move to strike again, raising his mighty blade and she understood now that they would bring this threat down together.

The silver haired man was on his knees and deeply wounded, but still able to fight. His nimble fingers worked until the magic spun between them like molded death.

Rey would not stand by to find out the depths of his strength and started for him, her own powers ignited by her need to keep both herself and the king alive.

She thrust her hands into the night, letting the blinding light crackle across the dark.

The mage dropped his collected magic, letting it vanish like a wisp of red smoke and held up a single hand with what Rey thought was an attempt to block her efforts, but the moment the lightning touched him, she felt a bizarre sensation, as though he was accepting her power not deflecting it.

The feeling was an invasion as much as it was a theft, like a succubus draining her energy and she screamed against the violation and the pain.

Her attempt to kill him became a defense, while still managing to hold the wounded mage in place. Focusing past the glow of her light, Rey saw that the gash across his chest had begun to heal itself with a speed that would see him restored and her dead.

“Do it! Kill him now!” She screamed to Kylo as her face went pale.

The king did not hesitate. He followed her command, quickly going behind the mage. Kylo swung his sword in a great downward arch that saw the silver head fly from its body.

Rey’s hold on him was severed instantly and she dropped lifeless to the ground.

Kylo stood over the dead man, eyes wide, chest rising and falling with the effort of battle, nearly unbelieving what had just occurred.

He’d felt it. Through the entire fight he felt the very magic Rey had always been aware of, especially in that last strike.

He’d known the sensation before, but this time, with Rey here, he felt it amplified. Felt himself letting down the mental blockers to free much more of it than he ever had before. Enough so that the effects rippled through his arms, vibrating with the force of his undeniable…

Rey.

Kylo spun and found her on the ground hunched over like a wilted rose. He sheathed his sword and dashed to her side kneeling down to take her head in his hands. Gently he tilted her face towards his.

Dark circles around her eyes gave her a frightening, gaunt look, but she seemed to still be with him. “Rey? Are you alright?” He called nervously.

She gave a weak nod, her eyes opening to look around at the battle before loosing focus. “He, turned my own strength against me.” She said, surprised. When she spoke it was as though her breath were being pressed from her lungs. “He stole my power, sucked it from me like it was nothing.” She managed.

“It’s alright. I’m here.” The king said softly, worry flashing across his face.

Her head dropped back, hanging over his arm and the sight of her sent him into an angry panic as she slipped further away.

“Rey?”

She was unresponsive, pale and limp. Kylo forgot about the war.

Swallowing the lump in his throat, ignoring the crippling fear felt for her life, he pulled her firmly into his arms and stood, rising with the witch held tight.

The soldiers who had fallen and those still fighting for their lives looked up and away from the clashing of swords to see the king, coming down the hill. He carried the woman like a sleeping bride and parted the slaughter with his heavy steps, showing little regard for the melee around them.

The sight of her inspired the men who found the horror of loosing the witch to death, far eclipsed their superstitious fear of her power.

The soldiers knew she’d been the one to stop the mage. They’d all seen her fighting their enemy. It was Rey who turned the tide, saving their lives and the life of their king.

As Ren passed, the witches’ spirit seemed to revive them, and the men rose up, shouting victory in her name, rushing the southern army with a renewed strength, unmatched and unstoppable.

“My liege! Is she dead?” A soldier asked once Ren had made it back into the camp.

Kylo turned at the entrance of his tent with her in his arms. He seemed unable to answer, as if saying yes or no would change the outcome and he feared one possibility too much to find the words.

The solider stepped back, shocked by the kings sadness.

“What can be done?” The man asked.

“Victory is ours” His voice was quiet, as lifeless as the woman. Dragging his eyes back towards the field, narrowing them at the sight of his enemy he said simply, “Kill them all.”

The soldier gave him a hearts salute before running off to join his fellow fighters.

Shouldering into his tent, the small sleeping fire still glowing warm, Kylo laid Rey down on the pallet, brushing her hair from her face.

“Rey” He tried, and waited nervously for a response. "Please...I'm here." But the silence and her ghostly appearance where the only reply.

Hanging his head, the king sighed, slowly exhaling as he tried to contend with the though of actually loosing her before he'd even begun to process what was happening between them and how she had awakened something within him. She could not die, he could not lose her yet.

“Kylo” She whispered sounding weak. When her eyes fluttered open, he smiled wide, rebellious tears pooling.

“I’m here." He answered softly "Tell me what to do —I don’t know how to fix you.”

She managed a smile and shook her head, just a little. “I am not broken. ” She said, but her eyes closed again, ignorant to her efforts of reassurance.

His relief faded to heartbreak as he realized this very well could be her end. He could call for help, but what use was a healer when it was magic that stole her life.

Kylo let his head rest on her shoulder for a moment, stunned by how afraid he was to lose this woman. This terrible feeling of helplessness was foreign to the king. It made him want to lash out, but what good would that do.

Slipping his hand under her head, he lifted her gently and pressed his forehead to hers. “Please. Stay with me” He whispered and shut his eyes.

The noise of war faded leaving only the sound of his racing heart. He felt so alone.

As the king held the dying woman inside the tent, the night around them stirred.

The distant trees rustled their leaves and the clouds cleared a path for the moon to shine its pale light on the field as a small visitor, very far from home, came fluttering down onto the top of the tent post.

The little white owl sat and watched the battle for a moment, its large black eyes focused, blinking a few times before they closed.

The white feathers were bright in the moonlight, but no one noticed. The only one aware of the bird at all was Rey who sensed her arrival. To weak to say anything, the young witch lay silent and still as she let the creature reach out, the depths of its strength a mystery even to Rey, but no less welcome.

When the breeze swept in and ruffled the owls feathers, the bird opened its eyes, noted the headless warlock, the continued fighting, and strange way the humans celebrated the killing of one another.

They had indeed brought destruction. But, she would bring life.

Inside the silent space below, Rey’s heart suddenly began to beat a little stronger, and with each passing second her lungs took in more air until at last she gasped and opened her eyes, surprised to be alive, and still more, shocked to find the king holding her, beautiful in his grief.

When she stirred in his arms he sat up, amazed to find her coloring back and her eyes bright.

“You’re here.” He said astonished. He’d been so certain that she was gone.

Rey smiled and reached up to slip his hair behind his ear and hold his face for a moment. “I was always here” She whispered.

The king did not hide the tear that fell as he hovered close. Overjoyed at this second chance, but afraid to say so, they chose to hold onto the moment and each other for as long as they could.

Satisfied, the owl pushed off and flew away, never once being seen or heard.

“I ran,” Rey confessed, her smile gone as her hand dropped from his face. “I was going to go home, but, I saw the mage. I saw his power and I knew you’d all be dead before dawn.”

“You came back to save us?” He asked sitting up on the bed beside her.

“I came back to save you.” She said.

“Why?” He asked feeling some hope.

“Because I must. Didn’t you feel it?” Rey asked, a little spark of excitement in her words.

He knew what she meant but was scared to say so and he’d had enough fear to last a lifetime after tonight.

“After he struck me, you stood up to kill him. There was more alive in you than just anger.” Rey went on “The magic you possess, the very force of it is strong in you. But you’ve been lied to for so long.” She said with pity, her voice still a little faint.

He started to pull away, but she reached out, her fingers inching up the thick sleeve. “Don’t be afraid” She offered clearly, her eyes warm and not unkind. “I feel it too.”

But he did pull away, his worry for her fading as he glared down at the young woman with a sense of dread shading his face.

The sounds of battle continued outside, while the internal war waged in the mind of Kylo Ren. He wanted very badly to hold onto the things he’d been told since he was a child, while accepting what he now knew to be true.

“Kylo, search your feelings. You know what this is. There’s no shame in running from it, but you’ve been running your entire life and it’s only gotten you here. Bruised and bloodied.” She nodded at the cut over his brow, though she hoped he understood the scope of her meaning went far beyond the physical.

Rey was right. He exhaled deeply, feeling the inescapable truth tighten around him. Still, he could not confess it. Not yet. Even as the power coursed through him, he struggled to openly admit to it, and now that his fear of losing Rey was no longer needed, his attentions turned again to the force that seemed to demand so much from him. It felt like a living thing, furious and hungry, caring little for his ingrained need to keep his strength suppressed.

“You’re recovered?” He asked standing.

“I am” She answered curious.

“Then stay here,” He ordered.

At the entrance to the tent, Kylo pulled his sword, the sound of its edge against the scabbard more beautiful than song, and without another word, he left her.

Marching down the aisle, now littered with bodies, he cut down any poor enemy soul still standing.

Towards the open field the king marched, passing the headless body of the fallen mage. He followed the last of them, running the soldiers down, slicing men from navel to nose, hacking limbs to leave them for dead, until he stood breathing like a bull, splattered with blood, staring into the dark towards the southern kingdom that had dared to rise against him.

Ren’s own soldiers had gathered now that the battle was won and stared at his silhouette, all of them in awe of their king, seeing him as a warrior, unaware of the suffocating struggle between light and dark that pushed him to lash out as he just had.

The force was taking him under. The sense of drowning in power would not give him a moment to breathe, and slaughtering men did little to quiet his anger as it once had.

Ren looked up to the trees and listened as the lone man he’d left alive escaped to tell his people what happened here.

And what did happen?

The king shrank back an inch or so, frustration and hurt welling up as he considered the facts that led him to this point.

He had over the course of his life, been lied to and denied a rare gift while still causing the people he loved most to fear and deceive him. He was nearly seething as he thought back to a life spent ignoring the dim flame of magic that insisted on burning within, even during the darkest times his fire burned bright. But he never let it grow- simply because he’d been told not too. And for what? He wondered. So that I wouldn’t frighten them? He looked down at the bloodstained earth. So that they would love me in spite of who I am? He thought of Snoke, and his mother and his dark brows furrowed. Both had always claimed to love him but their fear of him had been palpable. Now he felt certain he knew why.

He then thought of his father —the sting of that old wound still raw— Han had always believed in Kylo...when he was there. But just like everyone else, the restless knight had failed his son in the worst of ways.

The people who should have guided him as the force wielding child that he was, instead left him in the hands of a man who thought it better he be tricked than taught. And while this hurt him deeply, there was something else at play. An emotion was stirring that he was not familiar with and it made his breath shallow and his head feel light.

Guilt.

Snoke’s attempts to keep him from discovering the truth had worked so well, he was almost sorry for letting it happen. He actually felt as though he’d done something wrong. Betrayed his mentor in some way by admitting that his suspicions were true.

Desperate not to lose the relationship between them he prayed Snoke’s lying really had been done out of a sense of protection for the boy he once was. He would not damn the high priest yet. There was more to this story and he would hear it from Snoke’s own mouth first.

Perhaps he understood now that in telling Rey to let the past die, he would be damning himself to never understanding the truths of his own history.

Overwhelmed by it all, the king exhaled again in an attempt to shake the feeling and he raised his head refusing to deny himself this moment.

A great victory had been won here tonight, and he would continue on. This was the plan, achieved in an unexpected way, but his nonetheless. Everything he’d been working towards was finally within reach. Finding out the truth would have to wait, as turning back now would mean the years spent advancing and growing his kingdom would have been in vain.

Like the man he’d been trained to become, the king pushed the hurt back down to the recesses where it belonged and turned, smiling at his men.

*

Rodick scrambled through the mess, running and tripping over the bodies in an attempt to reach the rookery cart before anyone would notice.

This was it! He grinned as he ran. His chance to prove that Snoke’s trust in him had not been misplaced.

He’d nearly cried when he received the first letter just as they’d left Jakku.

Snoke was entrusting him, the king’s lowly squire, with the wellbeing of the kingdom and now he had one job to accomplish in this moment, and that was to send word to the high priest.

He’d managed to scribble out the letter while the fighting continued, too shocked to worry that his absence would be noticed.

It was short and to the point.

The witch is powerful. She has killed the mage of Bespin which enabled victory, yet I fear for the king. If such power should turn against us, we could all be in danger. Send word for how to proceed.

Rodrick left it unsigned of course, but pressed the seal the high priest had sent him in secret for an identifying mark.

As though all their lives depended on it (which Snoke had convinced him it did) the squire quickly shoved the tiny scroll into the ravens pocket and sealed it, releasing the bird, watching as it flew off, relieved to have proven his loyalty to the church.

The gods would see his hard work and reward them all for his efforts.

*

Rey sat alone in the dark silence of the tent, listening to the victorious shouting of the men outside. Though it pleased her, she hated herself for assisting these people. She’d truly crossed a line tonight.

She’d made a choice that would not be easy to walk away from. Not only had she once again saved this bad king and his men from death, her chance to escape had been there and she’d turned her back on it, instead choosing him. Again.

The finality of it pulled tears from her eyes though not from sadness, but from knowing that now, there was nothing left to do but accept the truth.

Kylo was a most extraordinary man, and everything, every moment during this exhausting week had culminated in their joining together in the fight.

Watching him come alive, allowing his magic to build without stopping had been incredible, but with that awakening, her own fate became undeniably clear.

She could not leave him now, she could not run home to Jakku.

She was home.

Home was with the man who needed her, for who else would show the king the beautiful possibility of a kingdom ruled by such power, and how easily that power can corrupt.

When she first saw her future through the vision, it had been offensive, she thought the dark forces were at play, but now, it began to make sense. And though she still bristled at the idea of taking his hand, understanding that her kind heart might bring balance to the kingdoms and to the king was enough to keep Rey sitting in the middle of Ren’s war.

A conquering king he may be, with a deadly strike and penchant for violence, but after tonight she knew he would become much more than that to her. He would become more than that to them all.

Rey wiped her face and wondered when he would come back.

She’d finally gained the courage to reveal what she knew of their shared future, and wanted it out before she lost her nerve, though she did not doubt he would be glad to hear it.

Shutting her eyes, Rey lay in bed feeling her body complete it’s healing. She took a deep breath that ended with a soft sigh as she remembered him lifting her up into his arms and carrying her away from the battle. She still felt the lingering effects of his strength and in that moment, his love.

Hand pressed flat against her heart, Rey smiled.

Kylo Ren was his not his title, nor was he the man Rey thought she knew. He would surprise them all, and she was very much in danger of loving him too.

*

The morning came, though sleep had not.

When the king finally gave in to exhaustion, he made his way back to his tent, finding it empty in the early morning hours.

For a moment he feared she’d finally gone, but after everything between them over the last few days, he was certain she would at least say goodbye.

Alone for the first time since they left Jakku, Kylo sat in his chair and stared into the void, his mind overworked from processing the events of the night and their ramifications.

At some point, Hux stepped in to inform him that the witch was bathing in the river and wondered if a guard should be assigned to her.

The king shook his head and tried to listen as the chancellor went on telling him that the generals would be in soon to go over the new plans for Bespin, now that they’d crushed a large portion of the kingdoms army, but the mans words were largely ignored.

He’d gone, and Kylo sat with his head in his hands. He felt numb, weightless and aimless like a broken bit of drift wood floating at sea.

Thoughts came and went like waves along the shores of his homeland. A few stayed, lingering long enough that he could ponder them. Most were of her…

In the few weeks he’d known the woman, she’d made him reconsider his tactics, question his judgment, and now himself as the man he thought he knew and understood. There was a sense of instability in his world and it was all her doing.

What sort of a king can withstand years of marching with an army into countless battles, attempted murder and ambush, but not the loss of a woman, he thought remembering what it felt like when she collapsed in his arms. The threat of her death had nearly gutted him. And it had been enough for him to see her for the danger she was. Perhaps not to him, but certainly to his rule as he knew it.

But there was more to his heavy heart than Rey.

Accepting magic as a thing not contained and controlled by the church was one thing. He’d always known that it was bigger than the Sith, they were simply the first to understand its purpose, or so he’d been led to believe. But knowing he possessed it, and knowing exactly what to do with it were two very different things from simply knowing of its existence.

The king was worse than a beginner. He was a grown man, the most powerful in the twelve kingdoms, and still he felt as helpless as a child left alone in the dark with no hope of understanding or controlling his own strength.

Maybe —if he was kind— she would teach him her ways, show him the arts as she knew them. The witch may be a danger to his heart, but she was formidable. He would not let the opportunity go to waste.

Interrupting his thoughts, the generals came sauntering into the tent, Hux leading the way.

Ren looked up, his eyes weary, and watched until they stopped around the large strategy table brought in that morning.

They came with maps and plans in hand, but the king was not interested.

He waved them off saying he needed to attend to something first, and stood, rising like a black oak, looking from one confused face to the next before grumbling for Hux to begin without him and left before he could be stopped.

���I’ve never seen a man so disappointed after winning a battle, and an ambush at that!” General Pryde said, bewildered as he stared out the open tent.

General Agnon gave a deeply disturbed sigh “He is bewitched.” He announced.

Hux shook his head, defensive of his king. “No, I believe he has….true feelings, for the girl” He said struggling to get his mouth around the words.

“For her?” General Pryde cut in. “I admit she proved to be invaluable last night, she is a weapon of, extraordinary ability, but… a witch?” He was nearing outrage. “Wasn’t he to wed the daughter of house Hutt?”

Hux sighed and looked down at the map of the land. He knew without a doubt that having a king infatuated with a witch was troublesome indeed. A relationship between them could hurt Ren’s chances of taking a bride from a wealthy and important family, as a king should. If Ren could not see reason, he would be forced to make the king understand, after all, he’d sworn an oath of loyalty to the man, it was his duty to keep the king from allowing this—temporary distraction— to stop him from doing what he must to ensure the expansion and glory of their kingdom. Making a mental note to place himself closer to the problem, Hux looked up at the table of generals.

“Let’s continue good sirs, the king will return and we will be expected to have done our duties.” He said and cleared his throat. “General Agnon, will you begin.”

*

The rush of water was a sound Kylo always enjoyed. Any time they came to a lake, stream or river on their journey, he would take a moment to appreciate its serenity. The sound so reminded him of home.

Alderaan’s capital city rose up like a jeweled mountain beside the sea. Its black beaches and cool skies so beautiful, he struggled to find the awe in other places at times, for nothing compared to that solemn land of deep green forests, and dark rolling waves.

Though the current sight of Rey standing on the shore did come close.

She was facing the river, her hair wet from her swim, wearing her long shift and no more.

She moved as though she’d learned how to pray using her body.

Strong, elegant movements flowed from one stance to the next, in a dance without music and he wondered where she’d learned such a thing.

Curious, he came closer and smiled when she turned in a particularly graceful way that saw her end in a fighting stance like that of a warrior ready to strike.

“What are you doing?” He asked and stepped onto the rocky shore between the thin birch trees.

She sighed and hung her head at the interruption of his voice, letting her arms drop at her sides.

“I was meditating.” She said glancing back at him. He thought she was upset until her mouth twitched with a smile. “Like —a Saxon monk.” She cocked a brow to match her smile.

Ren chuckled and crossed his arms. The hidden monks prayed indoors and under the eyes of their god, not half naked on the outskirts of a battle field. She was toying with him. “An… interesting take on it.” He said, raising his voice to be heard over the rapids as he came to stand beside her.

He was still dirty from the night of fighting, though he’d tossed a cask of water over his head to wash away the blood, he must look like a man in need of a bath, and the water was calling to him. He glanced down at Rey, still dripping from her swim and admired her lack of concern for the fact that her dress was hung over a tree branch, and the worn out material of her shift was nearly sheer.

“Are you feeling well?” He asked, and even he could hear that he was not used to asking after someones wellbeing and actually caring for the answer.

She repressed a grin at his expense. “I’m well now, thank you.” She said, and he was glad for it.

“Is it hard for you to rest after battle?” Rey asked watching the river. “You left last night and didn’t come back”

Was that disappointment he heard?

Kylo watched the white froth of the mixing waves for a while, intrigued by her concern. The swim would have to wait.

“Yes.” He answered, “I find forcing myself to sleep worse than not bothering at all.”

“I’ve heard most kings would agree.” She replied and was quiet for a while before clearing her throat as if a little nervous. “May I ask you something?” She said squinting up at him.

A woman never utters those words unless she’s likely to elicit anger or heartbreak. This could end badly, but he just shrugged and nodded.

“What will you do with it?”

“With what?” He asked.

“Well, your power… you’re not still denying it are you?” She asked.

Kylo looked down at the rocks beneath his boots. He noticed her bare foot next to his and how incredibly small and vulnerable she seemed. Exposed and dwarfed by the size of his black leather, he imagined how easily he could crush every bone with a single step. Eyes flitting back up to look into hers, he chose to answer honestly “I would —trample my enemies, crush them, leave them broken and ruined.”

Rey narrowed her eyes.

Kylo waited a beat before a small smile turned the corners of his mouth. “I would, I can… but I wont. Destruction seems to be my way, but, I see you and you’ve had magic your entire life, you never caused harm outside of protecting yourself.” Kylo felt relief from his own cruel thoughts as he realized how true this was. He would pick her up and carry her away from the shore to keep her from stepping on a sharp rock, just as he would learn to carry his kingdom safely towards a better future, magic or not.

She understood now and the tension eased a bit. “You need a teacher” She said matching his smile.

She would offer without him even needing to ask? He let his smile grow wide.

“But you must confront the one who failed you first.” She said, and the joy dropped from his face like a stone.

Turning to the water again, the king stared at the opposite shore not saying a word.

Gently, Rey slid her hand over his arm. “It won’t be easy, but you can not move forward until you do. Snoke is not a good man Kylo, he is a liar who has manipulated you for years.”

He jerked away from her touch and turned to block her from his view.

Rey was surprised to see him act so childishly. “You’re making a mistake. You can not let him keep so tight a hold.”

“And what do you know of it?” He said turning on her.

Rey stepped back. “I know what I’ve seen in your head, and what you’ve told me.”

“I’ve told you nothing! I’ve told you that he wished to protect me, and that was all! Everything else has been a fabrication, a twisting of the facts to fit the truth you desire.”

She looked away, confused though she quickly made sense of this puzzle. “You love him don’t you.” She said, her words a sigh as she realized it.

Kylo only stared at her. He refused to answer.

“I see now, he’s more than a mentor. He’s like ...a father? That, is why you defend him so. But, Kylo even fathers fail their sons, and daughters.”

He gave a sharp laugh with tears in his eyes. “You keep pushing witch. Keep digging away until you’ve found everything you want.”

She shook her head and tried to reach for him again but he backed away “I don’t mean to hurt you, I just want you to be free.” She pleaded.

“Why?”

“Because I care.” She said.

“Why?”

Rey looked back at the water blinking quickly as she struggled to find her response. “I —have my reasons.” She admitted. “I’m finding it very hard to say suddenly. ”

“You say too much.” He shot back, “And you’ve said enough.”

He’d decided last night that the matter with Snoke could not be resolved while on the road. Having her insist on it was bringing back all of the frustration and hurt he’d managed to swallow. It sat heavy in his stomach, but it was there and not bubbling at the surface as she seemed to want it.

Snoke had been the only guiding hand he’d ever needed to become the king he was today. So why must Rey continue to defy everything he’d ever been taught, shaming Snoke’s efforts, warranted or not, and without saying it, declaring the kings life a lie.

He began to question her intentions. Why did she care? She’d hated him from the start, saw him as a threat and even admitted to nearly leaving last night. Why would he then surrender his heart and his truth to a woman who did not seem to know her own.

He’d come to make amends and ask her to stay with him as he should have back in Niima. Not to be forced into confronting his demons.

All the king of the new empire wanted, was to feel like himself again instead of some confused, despondent child.

“Why are you still here?” He asked suddenly.

Rey leaned away, face twisted with confusion. “Im sorry?”

“Why are you here!” He shouted over the water. “You said you started to run last night, so why didn’t you go! I wasn’t there to stop you, the threat was gone! All you had to do was walk out of my tent, go get your horse and ride off.”

She looked away, her eyes wide as she tried to find the words to defend herself.

“You’ll never bend to me,” He said in angry defeat. “You will never fight at my side, in spite of your efforts last night.” Kylo shook his head, his patience all but gone. “You want me to turn my back on the man who trained me. You want me to accept my power and stop fighting it? Let this —force, inside of me out? Have you ever considered how much you’ll regret it the moment that I do.”

Rey shrank back, a veil of fear over her eyes that hurt his foolish heart. She squared her shoulders as she tried to speak again but he saw the way she second guessed herself.

A man like Ren with magic and authority would be unstoppable. Why would she ever encourage something like that if she already thought him to be so bad a king. He could not make sense of it, nor did he find himself wanting to.

With a deep sigh of disappointment, the king turned and started back for the camp, ready to depart, wondering now why he’d come to find her in the first place. He’d wanted to start the journey with her as it should have been but now he’d had his fill of magic, of Rey, and of the way she made him reconsider everything.

“Kylo wait!” She called after him, but he kept walking, wanting nothing now but some peace before moving on.

Biting her lip with a grumble, Rey gave a huff and stepped forward as she spoke. Now was the time.

“My king!” She called clear and strong. “Wait.”

Rey’s voice lashed out over the white rocks, violently gripping his heart. Kylo shut his eyes as he halted mid-step with a deep frown, resisting the need to turn for as long as he could, fighting the urge to go to her, but it was useless.

He gave in and spun to look at Rey, still standing barefoot by the water, with the sun shining through her shift, her body beneath in silhouette and he exhaled a shaking breath. Why did she have to say it. My King. Now he would never let her go.

Rey came to him, sheepishly in her steps, as though she still feared what was happening but no longer wished to stop it.

Her eyes fixed with confidence on his as she stepped into his shadow.

“I wanted to tell you last night, but after you didn’t come back I thought it was for the best, I worried there could be unseen consequences in revealing it to you. But I know now, I can not keep it to myself any longer.”

“What is it?” He asked gazing down at her beautiful face, convinced he hated it.

“I think I understand what it is between us.” She said.

He swallowed hard, ignoring the fluttering in his stomach “And what is it Rey? What’s between us?” He asked, gently stepping just an inch closer as he realized that hate, as it turns out, felt very much like another emotion he’d managed to avoid in his twenty-nine years by ignoring the advances of courtesans and proposals made by kings on behalf of their daughters.

“That we were brought together for a purpose. For the sake of your kingdom, this must happen.” She replied. “There was a part of the vision I’ve kept to myself.” Rey struggled for a moment, but found the will to say it. “When I looked into your mind when you first came to me, back in Niima. I saw us.”

“I know.”

“No, you don’t” She said glancing down for a moment. When she looked back up at him, her eyes were different somehow, as though she could see the vision presently, very clearly, and what she saw frightened her, perhaps because of the excitement she felt too. “I saw you on your throne, and I was there next to you.”

Kylo felt the world spin, felt his heart swell and expand with the thought, but he would not give in to her yet, or it —this feeling of hate that was not so much hate at all.

“As the mage of the king?” He questioned, for he’d seen something like that as well, though he had no hope in making sense of visions.

She shook her head. “No, Kylo. As your queen.”

He searched for any sign of a lie, but she was an honest woman, and a woman he knew he only felt such strong emotion for because he’d loved her from the moment she appeared in the forest that first time, when she’d come walking out of the sun itself and down into his mortal world.

Laying his hand on her soft cheek, cradling her face for a moment, he slid his fingers through her wet hair to hold her steady while he let the simple truth of what she’d said resonate. He knew this was not just the promise of a queen, but the truth of that feared word —love— as it was more real and more alive in his heart than any talk of magic.

Rey- he smiled. She was so small to him. How can so much power come from something so easy to break, he wondered, feeling her skull beneath her hair, letting his fingers press into the curve of her strong neck. He felt the urgent need to protect each beautifully delicate bone in spite of the fact that she could so easily manage.

The sensation was a mystery beyond comprehension. So he chose instead to just enjoy the way she felt in his hands, and in his arms…

Kylo took her by the waist to pull her close and leaned down to kiss her.

There was an indescribable delight found in just pressing his lips to hers and resting against the warmth of her mouth.

His attentions were light, each movement gentle but confident as he opened his eyes to see her. In near disbelief that it was happening, he wanted to make the moment last, but the kiss could not be held back and he shut his eyes, relishing in the sound of her throaty sigh as he dipped his tongue gently into her mouth, just a small gesture, encouraged by the way she pressed her hands against his chest and clutched at the collar of his jacket.

The slow exhale from Rey’s nostrils brushed his lips and she gave a muffled moan, letting her tongue roll along with his.

She tasted of fresh water and the sweet lingering bite of honey from her tea this morning and when she pulled away to look up at him, her lips were pouted and red, her eyes hazy and half lidded with a flush in her cheeks…

It was all he could do to stop himself from pulling her down onto the rocks here and now.

But, not yet.

Rising up to full height, Kylo found himself searching for any sign of regret in her eyes, but there was none. Just the distinct look of wanting him as badly as he did her.

He smiled, sighing with the understanding of what this moment meant for them, and his heart ached for her. For Rey, the woods witch, the self proclaimed nobody.

But you are everything to me, he silently confessed and leaned down to kiss her once more.

#reylo ao3 #reylo angst #reylo au #reylo fiction #reylomedieval #reylo fanfic #reylo romance #reylo slowburn #slow burn #kylo ren is king #the force is magic #reylo #the force #kylo ren #rey of jakku #action and romance #because i love it

[reyloyal]

Stronghold ~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 3

warnings and summary - kidnapping, Rey being held against her will- masterlist

The procession from the village of Niima was slow moving as an army tends to be with so many men and horses and cargo.

They did however make it far enough along their route that the king agreed to set up camp for the night in a field protected by forest on one side and a lake on the other.

By the time the men had raised tents and set up fires for cooking and tubs for washing, Ren was overcome with worry that he’d hit her too hard, though he didn’t dare let the others know.

“Any word?” He asked from his spot on the long wooden plank placed over a few tree stumps. He sat elbow to elbow with his soldiers while they ate. The king often liked to dine with them, especially today after the unfortunate events of the last few weeks. Morale was low, making a sense of camaraderie all the more important.

“No my lord,” his young squire Rodrick replied with a bow before sitting to eat on the ground.

Ren’s jaw reflexively clenched as he looked up and away from the men. He was upset to hear it, but kept his disappointment to himself.

“The air here is different my liege.” The boisterous voice of a soldier clashed with Ren’s worries. “Something nice about it.” He said taking a deep breath.

Ren looked up to the clear sky gone a pale pink. Thin dark clouds were spread out across the expanse as the sun began to set.

“It’s clean” He said around the food in his mouth. “Jakku, was a backwater pile of piss that I never want to ….”

“My lord, your —guest— is awake.” Hux announced as he came rushing up. “You’d better come.” He said with a tone of warning in his otherwise unwavering way.

The men watched as Ren dropped his plate to the grass and stormed off beside his chancellor.

The soldiers looked from one to the other with an unspoken fear in their eyes. They knew what she was, and what she’d done, so none among them could understand why the king would put them all in danger, but none among them had the stones to ask. So they went on eating and drinking; doing their best to act as though it didn’t worry them.

Meanwhile, the shouting coming from the empty prisoners tent assured Ren that the witch was no worse for wear. In fact it sounded like she was more than awake and giving her guard hell.

Tossing aside the heavy tarp he and Hux walked in to find Rey, with her wrists still bound tight, and a cloth gag in her mouth, straddling the poor soldier and trying rather successfully to choke him to death.

Without a word, Kylo crossed the room and pulled her away, holding tight to the ropes that bound her.

“Go” he ordered the gasping man who scrambled to his feet. “Both of you!” He yelled back to Hux who quickly followed the guard outside.

With the men gone, he shot a fiery gaze down at the girl.

What do I do with you now, he wondered.

Her glare was as deadly as flung daggers, but still he dared to take a chance and began to let go of the ropes, thinking perhaps she would remain calm.

She did not hesitate and lunged forward.

Quick and skilled on his feet, the king side stepped her attack and caught her with an arm that made her grunt from the impact.

Knowing he would have to go about this differently, Ren turned, wrapping both arms tight around her, and waited for her to settle, her resistance distracting, as her efforts pushed her hips and backside against him.

When the tussling stopped, Rey stood panting through her nose as if she’d just run here from Jakku. Muffled groans of frustration matched her attempts to free herself of his embrace.

Her hair was a wild, unruly mess that smelled of firewood and lavender and it mingled with the sharp scent of her anger and fear. Ren inhaled, reflexively shutting his eyes for a moment.  Feeling her incredible strength in his arms, he knew he must calm her or this could go on for hours. Apologizing seemed a decent way to start.

“Please.” He said softly, very close to her ear. “Forgive me. I had to do it, I had no choice” He intoned.

She still fought his hold, but it did lessen enough that he seized the chance to speak again.

“I did not want to hurt you and I confess it made me sick to see you fall, but… you almost killed my men. They were dying Rey. I know you’re a good woman. Once your anger towards me cooled, the guilt would have consumed you. You’re not a murderer.” He said brushing her hair back from her face with the flat of his hand. He gently pressed her forehead until she rested on his chest. “I want to take this off of you.” He said, slipping his finger down and tugging on the gag just a bit. “The men were afraid you’d curse them. Foolish yes, and I’m sorry to say I gave in to their fears, if only to make traveling easier, and... you were already unconscious… will you promise not to scream when I take it off?”

She grumbled but gave a nod.

Ren held her tight with an arm, easily untying the cloth with his free hand.

She let out a small sound of relief as the rag fell to the ground, but he held her tight again, and she went stiff.

“I never want to raise my hand against you again. Please, don’t make me regret that.” He was careful to show that he was asking, not commanding.

Her shoulders lowered. “I won’t” She said sounding horse.

He nodded and loosened his hold, pulling the small knife from his belt.

Reaching both arms around her, Kylo engulfed Rey like a dark wave and slid the blade between her palms. Sawing once and with a strong flick he split the ropes.

She broke free and fell forward rubbing her wrists like a hurt animal licking its wounds.

Looking back over her shoulder, her still furious eyes met his. “What have you done!” She roared, though her voice was no more than a whisper.

Her horror at what must have felt like a betrayal struck Ren, as hot and painful as her lightning .

He backed away feeling true regret for taking her, but he had no choice. She had to see.

“I did what I must.” He said, resistant to the guilt and refusing to walk back his actions.

Rey growled disgust at his words, pacing back and forth, glancing up at him and around to try and see out of the tent. “Well where are we? Where have you taken me?”

“Were on the road to Bespin. Just a few days of travel and we’ll set up our final camp before we lay out the offer.”

“The offer for what?” She asked focusing on him again.

“A peaceful fall, or a violent one. The choice is theirs.”

Rey smirked and shook her head. “Yes, just what the innocent folks of a peaceful kingdom want. The option to die or to be subjugated. You’re very good at giving people irresistible offers.” Her sarcasm was not lost on the king.

Ren watched Rey pacing back and forth and realized how easily she could wound him with her words. He felt overwhelmed by the swell of emotion she brought out in him, and what it meant to have her here, but he was a king. He would not let one woman make him doubt what he knew to be right.

“Are you hungry?” He asked ignoring her accusations.

“No!” She snapped, offended by the question. “I’m not hungry in the least! I want to go back! I want no part of this!”

“I can not let you do that.” He said again.

“Why? Who are you that you should have any rights to me, or determine where I may go, or what I do!” She shouted, tossing her words at him like stones.

“I am your king!” He growled through clenched teeth as he walked up on her.

Rey shrank back, remembering his size and strength.

“You will never be my king.” She dared, just as tense as he. “I will not bow to you, I will not listen to you. It is you who are nothing and I will treat you as such until I am free to go. Cross me and you shall see what I am truly capable of.”

“You wouldn’t” He narrowed his eyes at her, not all together convinced that he was right.

“Do not tempt me Kylo Ren. I will destroy every last one of you if I must.”

He raised his finger in her face. “You wouldn’t, because you can’t.” He leaned back quickly eyeing her up and down. “It’s not who you are.”

“Oh? And what about your men? Your precious knights. I’ll have you know I enjoyed it. They deserved every second of pain.”

“That’s the darkness in you speaking,. That's not who you really are. Remember?” He tried.

She gave a sharp laugh. “What do you know of it? What your men whisper in your ear? You don’t know the first thing about living between two worlds, feeling as though you're stuck between the light and the dark….” She paused noting the way his gaze changed to a faint look of understanding. “Besides,” She went on “What good am I to you if I’m not capable of the same brutality. Shouldn’t I be as fierce as the king who tries to command me?”

“You’re good to me in more ways than the trials of war.” He answered.

“You have a chancellor, why do you need two?”

“I dont want you to be my Chancellor. I want you to be much more than that” He said, looking somewhat hopeful in spite of the angry tension between them.

She studied the king, trying to determine if he felt anything other than entitlement to her magic. But nothing would come of her efforts when the king himself was so uncertain of how he felt, no matter how the ache in his heart grew at the sight of this beautiful and terrifying woman.

“I will not speak to you until you let me go.” She said with a little less fire this time and walked to the tent post, sitting with her back against it. “And only then to lay a curse on your name and your war.”

He watched her, waited for her to say something more, but when she turned her nose up at him he knew she was finished for now.

“Fine” He said and turned, leaving her to brood while he went off to do the same.

*

With the sky dark and the camps' fire reaching towards the sky, Ren stood, grabbed the plate of food his page had prepared, and with some trepidation headed back towards his dwelling, the sound of his men’s drunken laughter fading behind him. Would that he could be so careless tonight…

Certain enough time had passed for her to have reconsidered his offer, perhaps even calming her to the way he’d gone about things, Kylo made his way back to her, feeling somewhat optimistic.

Truthfully, he would have tried harder to talk her into it had she not lost control so spectacularly… That, was fucking glorious, he thought and smiled as he remembered the sight of Rey wielding her blinding power which nearly killed his men.

Still, he knew in his heart he would have taken her all the same after reading the letter sent from Snoke. He could not leave a possible threat to fester and grow, the priest had been right.

He entered his tent to find the threat -currently looking like a crumpled heap of rough spun wool on the floor- had been brought to him as instructed. She would have been miserable in that chilly empty tarp...

“You need to eat,” He said and sat the plate of food at her feet, expecting her to swallow it whole.

Rey, who appeared to have been crying, turned her body away, curling up against the post from her hard place on the ground.

He watched her for a moment, wincing at the sorry sight, but hardened his heart towards the stubborn girl.

“You can’t starve to death.” He said nearly convinced she would try. “It’s been a full day since we left Jakku.”

Rey shut her eyes.

“Alright," He said to her back "But when you’re hungry in the morning and there’s nothing left for you, I won’t be swayed by any amount of begging.” He tried in an unsympathetic voice that usually worked on scared soldiers. He waited for a reply, clearly concerned for the reddened eyes and trails of clean skin her tears had left behind.

When she said nothing, he walked around the post. Crouching down, he tilted his head to see her clearly. “Is it really so bad?” He asked. “You being here with me, I mean.”

She looked up from her awkward place. One hard look into his eyes —then away.

She would not speak, she would not eat, but, perhaps she would sleep.

Shaking his head, he sighed and dared to reach out, lifting her hair from her face to see her eyes, before withdrawing his hand.

“Come, you should rest at least. The floor is no place for a woman to be, no matter how unpleasant she’s acting.” He taunted.

Rey didn’t move.

“I won’t touch you.” He added, realizing why she might choose the ground over sharing a bed with him. After all, who would stop a king from taking what he wanted, and while he so enjoyed taking as much as he could, Ren was not that sort of man.

He slowly stood and sighed, hovering over her. “You really mean to sleep on the ground all night? You’ll freeze before sun up.”

Nothing.

Resigned to sharing his tent with an angry witch, the king gave a reluctant grunt of acceptance and began to undress.

Rey peeked up from under the lock of hair that had fallen back in her eyes.

She watched as he set to shedding his layers without a page to assist.

Gloves first, followed by his vest of an inky black leather which caught the firelight and shone before he unbuttoned and stripped it away. The beautifully quilted and armored doublet of a softer black followed, the king pacing mindlessly as he worked, and she noted his efforts in laying each item on the large wooden chest along the cloth wall.

With nothing left but a linen shirt, he pulled the hem free of his black trousers and she admired the fine clothing, seeing how everything had been stitched by skilled hands.

He sat on the lone chair in the room next to the little table, and pulled off his boots, glancing up as he stood again. Their eyes met, and she watched him rake his hair back, exposing his striking face. He’d gotten her attention, though it didn’t seem like he  necessarily meant too.

The king was not a shy man, that much was obvious, nor was he ignorant to his own appeal. He had the sort of stoic masculinity a man without physical insecurities flaunts, not always aware of it, but very much aware of the effect such confidence can have on a person. Still, she hated him. He was a vicious, thoughtless beast. He’d taken her from her home that she loved, no matter how much she wanted to be free of it, and placed her here, on a path towards war and destruction,

It nearly didn’t matter that she found herself incapable of not staring… nearly.

Perhaps it was the sharp contrast of his black hair and fair skin, or his hazel eyes that could so quickly shift from cold to kind, that she always felt a little unsteady when looking into them. Perhaps, it was the sheer size of the man, she thought feeling a stir deep in her belly again. His stature and presence seemed intent on reminding Rey, that she was a woman first and a witch second.

Going behind her now, she listened as he went to the large pallet of thick blankets and furs.

Kylo laid on his back, sliding his arm under his head, his eyes open on the thick ceiling of the tent.

Quietly, hoping he wouldn't notice, she turned to her other side and faced the bed. It was getting too dark to see him well, even with the pale orange flame glowing in the small brazier.

As she lay there, just an inch or so too far from the comfort of the rug beneath his bed, Rey kept thinking of the things she’d seen when she first pried into his mind and their bond had been made.

The events of past present and future had rushed her the moment she touched the king, tossing her mind into a whirlwind of confusion, so much so that after sending the king on his way (before he could recover from the impact of the magic) Rey had gone back to her camp and worked a powerful incantation to summon a spirit guide, hoping for a little help in making sense of it all.

The one who emerged from the ash and salt circle was a guide she’d pulled from the spirit realm before. The moment the woman appeared, Rey felt a strong sense of relief, thankful for the company of the powerful witch Ahsoka.

However, her amusement at Rey’s fear over feeling so strongly towards a man she’d just met, had thrown Rey off balance. She hadn’t expected such a reaction. But the pale blue ghost insisted that great things can come from the most unlikely of places. And she warned Rey not to turn a blind eye to possibility.

Still, Rey would not allow herself to feel anything but contempt for him, no matter how beautiful, or intriguing. The man was cruel and everything she never wanted to be. The physical form of the dark past she’d run away from as a child, and denied as a woman. How could she ever feel differently about him, she wondered, eyeing his long form stretched across the bed.

Shutting her eyes, Rey remembered sitting at the edge of the summoning ring with her arms crossed, refusing to accept that there was any truth in Ahsoka’s words.

“And how do you know that’s who he really is?” The wise woman had asked her. “Remember Rey, what you’ve seen through him I can now see through you, and I tell you, all is not as it seems with this one.”

Rey hadn’t understood at first, not until she thought back to the visions. She’d sat in the dark of night recalling small fragments of things she’d seen in the short time they were bonded; the image of a small child, with big ears and black hair —the young Prince of Alderaan— happy and carefree with his family. The sound of laughter had faded quickly to show that same child, older now and heartbroken, devastated and angry by the loss of someone very dear to him…

There was also a voice, as clear to her as memories from her own past.

“You are the one who was promised,” The deep echo of the unseen speaker rang through her mind. “Chosen to expand the kingdom, and the holy way of the Sith. But, you will never know the true gift of magic”

The voice of the man, would come and go, fading in and out in tandem with the assortment of visions from the king’s life. Always though, the man would praise him, only to follow with a negative assessment of the boy. This conditional praise continued on in to manhood.

Currently, she wondered who it was that had such a hold on him. Who was this unseen presence that had been such a mainstay in Ren’s life, and for so long. Ahsoka advised her to look deeper than her initial assumptions, and Rey wondered if the faceless voice had something to do with it.

As fascinating as that all was, the last of the visions was the one to stay with her, embedding itself in her mind, haunting the witch even now as the future it predicted seemed a very real possibility now that she lay in Ren’s tent.

She opened her eyes from her spot on the floor and watched him breathing in the dim firelight, unsure if he was awake. She struggled to keep the words from spilling out in spite of not trusting him. Something about the dark made her feel safe, as though she could whisper her secret and the weight of her words would fade with the rising sun, forgotten.

“I saw us Kylo.” She said quietly, almost testing to see if he could hear.

He turned his head towards her.

“When I looked into your mind and our connection was made, I saw us together.”

He raised up onto an elbow, patiently waiting for her to finish.

She was unsure of telling him more, yet there was so much more to it than her simple statement.

But Ren said something then that made her forget it all. He sat up in bed and turned to her, thinking, questioning, and then saying, “I saw something too.” As though he’d finally made some sense of what happened that day in the forest.

Rey felt a tingle down her spine. Of course.

“I knew I sensed it in you.” She said feeling a spark of excitement. Thinking back, she recalled the way he’d mentally responded the night she reached out with knowledge of the poisoning. She hadn’t known for sure that it would work, projection like that requires magic from both involved, but she’d taken the chance after her visions. “I knew you could do the same.” Her lips twitched with a smile.

Ren sighed, resting his elbows on his knees, letting his long arms relax towards her. “Perhaps it was some effect of your power on me.” He shrugged “Rey —I am without it.”

Ahsoka was right. All was not as it seemed. For either of them. “There was a voice” She said. “In your head, the voice of a man? He’s told you as much your entire life.”

Ren looked away. “He’s protecting me.” He said a little too quickly.

“Who is he?” She asked, surprised to find herself so curious.

Ren looked down, almost childlike in how he shied away “My high priest. The, high priest.”

She did not like the sound of this title. Men with titles such as these tend to think so much of themselves they become a danger to everyone, much like a king… but sometimes worse, as they lust after the power of any who lord over them.

She knew in that moment she was not wrong in her suspicion of that voice.

Ren could sense her feelings about it, and the look of vulnerability in his eyes touched her heart. “You should sleep.” He said suddenly and laid back down with a thud.

“Kylo, tell me, what is he protecting you from?” She tried, eager to keep him talking about it “The truth? If you can look into my mind, surely you’ve more power than you think”

“Its not important…I have you now.” He said and turned his head to her with the cold eyes of a king, and not a man afraid to look too deeply into his own past.

Her mouth snapped shut and she sat back. Damn him… he was so used go getting everything he wanted. Well, he would not have her.

Shutting her heart to the idea of possibility just as quickly as the door had been opened, Rey determined she would be gone before sunrise, she could feel it in her bones —or was that the ache from traveling in the back of a cart for a day?

He could tell he’d angered her again, and with a sigh he tried to make peace. “Will you not come and sleep here? I swear it, I will not touch you.” He said with an earnestness she believed.

Rolling her eyes, Rey accepted that she would not get anymore from him about this priest or what he’d seen tonight, and she was in fact growing colder by the minute, and the packed earth was unforgiving.

Glancing defensively at him as she stood, Rey quickly walked to the foot of the pallet, lowering to crawl up beside him.

She turned her back on the king and laid down on her side. Drawing her knees up, she tucked her bare feet under the hem of her dress and hoped he hadn’t noticed her little sigh as she felt the warmth and softness just as he’d promised. The heat radiating from Kylo, was an instant relief and she realized then just how tired she really was. The dark dreamless sleep that followed being knocked unconscious could not compare to resting on a soft bed next to a large warm body.

She would still leave him though. He could not go on thinking he had rights to things just because he wore a crown. Maybe that’s exactly what being called king means for a man, but she was a woman of free will and spirit, she would drive the fact home to him and the fates that seemed so intent on keeping her here.

Perhaps after just a small rest, she thought letting her eyes close.

Within minutes, Rey was drifting off, and though she considered it for a fleeting moment, she did not knowingly turn to face him.

*

Mornings in a shut tent, even one of this size, tend to be stifling.

This was something she’d not experienced before, and the suffocating heat woke the young witch the next day.

Rey found herself alone, sweating and restless. The soft walls around her were glowing a buttery yellow with the unforgiving rays of sunlight.

Feeling groggy, she slowly sat up, her head aching a bit. She touched her fingertips to the sore spot at the base of her skull, prodding gently to asses the damage as she’d done the day before.

He’d gotten her with the hilt of his sword and she swore a silent oath to repay the abuse one day.

Cursing under her breath Rey huffed and rubbed her eyes. She’d slept through the night, right through what could have been a perfect chance to escape.

And where was the king, she wondered, looking to see if his boots were still sitting by the chair. There was no sign of him —clothes, weapons, all of his belongings, had been packed up and probably loaded onto a wagon. It was as if he’d never been here at all. Only this bed remained behind.

Rey twisted her mouth, concentrating as she listened intently to the sounds coming from outside.

The call and response of men at work was far off, leaving her to feel removed and sheltered from the army.

While the dwelling felt like a world separate from the encampment, a single step beyond the threshold would see her surrounded by his knights and soldiers. Men who feared her, and she them.

Shaking her head at the thought, Rey sighed and looked down at her dirty dress and hands, and her feet sunk deep in the fur of the pallet. She felt herself settling back down as though the heat were gently melting her to the spot.

It was becoming alarmingly difficult to leave the soft, peaceful bed, especially after the exhaustion of the last two days. Strange though, to feel such comfort in the company of an enemy, she thought frowning at the empty space where he’d been.

And then with a start, Rey remembered waking briefly in the night.

She sat motionless, thinking back, her fingers pressed to her lips holding in the groan of embarrassment as she recalled Ren laying asleep beside her, breathing softly. The slow rise and fall of his chest and steady heart beat had instantly begun to lull her back to sleep, but not before seeing that in his rest, the king looked no more threatening than a child.

She’d touched him, Rey remembered with a deep flush. Had she dreamed it, she wondered. But the warmth of his face and thick silk of his hair were too familiar, she could not have dreamed something so shamefully perfect.

This was a situation indeed she sighed. And while she’d been in a few over the last twenty years, none had been quite so frustrating as this.

The conflict was consuming her, and she found the feeling similar to her choice between telling him about the poisoning, and letting him die.

Now the choice was between staying because she felt the need to understand and possibly see the visions fulfilled, or to run, before he destroyed her life.

Rey chewed her lip thinking of the king and his arrogance, his self righteous ego, and how he’d looked at her when he cut her loose from her ropes. Like a scared boy, in danger of being scolded. He'd tried to hide it, but she saw. And when he came to her in the forest, demanding she join him in the taking of the known world or face his authority, she’d seen a flicker of gentleness in his eyes. He was an enigma.

Rey never ran from a mystery or the chance to fix a broken thing. But, not this time. Kylo Ren was a man grown, and not hers to mend.

Running, was her only option.

Unfortunately, there was simply no way to sneak off without the cover of night, and the men outside were growing louder by the minute.

By the sound of it, they were preparing to move on, which meant she would be taken further away from home. She must run, but what could she do?

Eyes darting around the tent, Rey searched as though the answer might be found on its walls. Her head hurt as she desperately tried to create a plan.

Magic was as always, the first choice. She’d worked many cloaking spells before, but never one to hide herself. She wasn’t sure how to do it or if it could even be done… still, she must get away.

This was not the life she’d made, nor the path she’d chosen!

A flash of the secret image she’d wisely kept to herself, in spite of nearly saying it all last night came on quickly, daring to keep her tethered to the king and his world. But she shook it off and cursed the sight, angry with the magic that would betray her.

“No.” She growled. “I will not give in to such a —ridiculous fate!” She insisted to the invisible forces.

“My lady?”

Rey looked up, eyes wide, to find a boy —early teens by the look of him— standing at the entrance.

His soft face hadn’t sprouted a single whisker yet, and he had thick blonde hair and innocent eyes, though she doubted he was.

“Whats happening?” She asked, aware of the way he looked at her, as though rumors were being spread through the camp much faster than she could stop them.

“I’ve been ordered to escort you to the horses my lady.” He said, voice shaking with fear “The king and his knights are already on the road. You’re to travel behind with us.”

“Us?”

“The soliders, page boys, cooks —the servants my lady.”

Rey scoffed at the idea, and rolled her eyes. Good to see he’d left her in the company of these men, and here she thought she was something special.

“I’d prefer not to travel with you, or anyone for that matter…what’s your name?”

“Harold, my lady.”

“Harold, please, don’t call me that I’m not a lady.” She kindly dismissed.

Harold met her eyes then, and something dark came alive, as though the boy found a small sliver of wicked, immature bravery “No, you’re not a lady are you.” His faced danced between disgust and something akin to lust “You’re a witch, and you’ll kill us all in our sleep, if we aren’t careful. But my king has given me a very important job to do. I intend on doing it well… my lady. So, either you come willingly or I’ll be forced to show you what happens to dirty woods women who don’t mind orders.” He spat on the dirt floor, his blue eyes fixed on her in a way that made his meaning quite clear.

The little shit.

Rey got up and walked to him, not stopping until they stood nose to nose. “Harold, dear boy. I have a very powerful incantation I’ve been meaning to try. Unfortunately, I have no way of completing it as I’ve been without the final ingredient.”

He looked at her, his face twisted with indifference. “So?”

“So, lovely —sweet, Harold. Speak to me like that again, and I shall volunteer you for the spell.” She said and before he could react, she slapped her hand forward and grabbed the boys testicles. “If you think I’m lying, I beg you, please.” Rey leaned forward, letting their eyes meet for a moment. “Give me a reason to prove you wrong.” She hissed in his ear.

She released him and stepped back with a smile, watching as the red faced boy crumpled forward, his hands protectively cupping himself a little too late.

“Yes, my lady” He wheezed. “Forgive me, I was only listening to what the others say about you. They said you’d kill us in our sleep to take our guts for your spells!”

“You would be wise to form your own opinions. Though, I can’t say they’re entirely wrong” She stifled a laugh as she lied. The very thought of spells calling for human entrails was laughably grotesque, but she’d learned long ago not to let their ignorance shame her true talents. “Now, I did have plans on escaping, which I will confess to you Harold as I see you are no threat. However, those three men just outside waiting,” She peeked out the opening  at the shining armor and swords. “Them I won’t try. I assume they are meant for me?”

He managed a nod.

“Right. My chance will come, but as I like keeping my head firmly attached to my neck,” She paused and shrugged in theatrical defeat, the image of Ren giving the order for her death for attempting to escape, quite vivid, “I’ll continue on until we’ve a little less company.” She finished.

She brushed past poor Harold, letting the boy scramble along after her.

Stepping out into the bright day, Rey looked up at her three guards and smiled.

Ren flattered her. He was correct in assuming she would need more than one.

“You will come with us,” The one with black greasy hair and a thick beard said nodding down the wide path between the tents that were quickly being packed up by the servants.

She met his eyes, her own narrowing. His would be a mind easy to bend. “I will come with you, but you will not harm me in any way.” She said and his resistance gave way easily, her chin rising just an inch with authority.

The solider glowered, but gave a slow nod, his monotone reply copying her order. “We will not harm you in any way.”

“If these two try to hurt me,” She nodded towards the other large armored men. “You will protect me with your life.”

“I will protect you with my life.” He said and looked over at his very confused companions.

“Sigur?” One of them said, trying to make sense of it.

“Right, shall we?” She asked and smiled at all three of them.

“This way my lady.” Sigur said and escorted her past the jaw dropped soldiers.

Rey was taken and loaded onto an empty cargo cart pulled by a sad looking horse that walked with it’s long nose down the entire way, ignoring the occasional half hearted commands mumbled by the old man who drove the cart. He had little fight left in him, making the pair a sad match.

The soldiers rode along side her, Sigur taking up the rear, which Rey assumed was to keep an eye on the other two.

She smiled, pleased with herself and her capacity for magic as she was carried down the road.

Up ahead, Harold rode his own horse, stealing glances over his shoulder, as though he didn’t like having her at his back.

Honestly, the last thing she cared for was a fake spell with Harolds bald testes as the main ingredient. The entire process of being hauled through the countryside like a chicken on it’s way to market was humiliating and she was focused intently on the absurdity of her situation.

Rey's pride was stung, try as she might to shake the feeling.

It was all the more difficult to know that she could overtake a few men at a time given the right circumstances, but no more than that and there were simply too many of them surrounding her as they’d wisely had the cart travel in the middle of the horde.

So she sat on a bundle of hay, brooding through the slow pace until sleep took hold and she let herself slump down to drift off into an easily disturbed rest.

“Why are we stopping?” She asked anyone who would answer when the cart came to a jarring halt.

They gave her no reply, but her answer came in the form of a quiet that washed over the men in a wave, as those mounted bowed their heads and those walking took a knee.

The sound of a horse approaching turned Rey’s head and she watched as the king came riding up.

He was staring at her like he did everyone, with the confident look of a man unchallenged.

Ren stopped the horse and called for his page.

The boy flung himself from his stallion and ran to the king, dropping to his knee in what had surely been meant as a graceful show of respect.

“You’ve managed to to survive your time with the witch alone.” Ren said settling back in the saddle. Rey saw a little spark of humor in his eyes. He glanced down and dismissed the boy, acknowledgment Harold’s only reward, and turned his attention to Rey.

“Forgive the, crude transport, it seemed the easiest way.” He said quickly as if knowing what she was thinking.

“A horse would have been nice.” She said not bothering to hide her feelings about the rickety cart.

The men around her stole curious looks at the king, wondering if he would kill her now or wait. He noticed, but did not lash out.

“Have you stopped your caravan just to apologize?” She asked with smug overconfidence and a little grin.

The muscles of his jaw worked as he tried to choose his words without losing his temper.

“No, that is not why I’ve stopped. It’s because your… talents, are needed.”

Her eyes darted around curious, then back to him. “What do you mean?”

“One of the men you injured has not recovered as the other has. Since you’re the one who caused the harm, I assumed you would be the one to fix it. Come,” He motioned with his head.

“Come? Come and what? Heal a man who came to my home with intent to hurt me?”

“You will come now, or he will die. And if Sir Vicrul dies, so do you.” And there it was. That look of strained control she’d been expecting.

Rey glared up at him, sitting on his shining horse, his black hair just as radiant, his dark eyes lacking the warmth that was in them last night and she was reminded of why she wanted to run, but she knew his threats were empty. He would not kill her. He wouldn’t even hurt her, he’d promised and she believed him. Still, she felt uneasy as any woman in a sea of men might.

There was also the guilt that came with harming any living thing. Knowing the knight still suffered was a surprise that made her feel awful, though perhaps a little less for Ren’s man than she might someone else, but it was a feeling still there, even when she’d simply been protecting herself. Rey blamed the damned struggle. The ongoing battle between light and dark. Her inherited ability to cause harm was powerful but her need to heal and protect was just as strong. A little balance would be nice, she thought, but perhaps this was her opportunity to find it.

“Fine” She said standing. Rey walked the length of the cart ready to jump down, only to be picked up by Sigur who placed her down gently. “Oh!” She exclaimed nearly forgetting the man was under her spell. “Thank you sir.”

“My lady” He said and bowed his head to her.

The king was watching the interaction, his eyes lingering on the solider with a reputation for brutality.

“You seem to be winning over my men.” He said suspiciously as Rey approached and pulled his gaze down to her.

“One at a time.” She replied, and blinked up at him, feigning innocence.

She could see the wheels turning in his head. It made her want to laugh but she kept it in.

“Right. Come on.” He leaned down, his gloved hand extended. “Grab my arm.” He said as though it were common knowledge.

She hesitated for a moment, remembering what it felt like when he held her after she’d regained conciseness. His arms had been crushing as he’d tried to calm her.

“You can not walk the entire way.” Ren said and motioned again.

Rey held her breath and reached out, slipping her hand past his to grab his forearm as best she could in spite of the armored padding of his jacket and the size.

He gripped her arm and without warning, pulled Rey up. She gasped, surprised to be lifted so quickly.

For a few breathless seconds she floated up, suspended like a cloud as he lifted her with only enough effort to show that he was indeed human before dropping her in the saddle in front of him.

Ren let her settle before taking the reins and clicked his tongue to set the horse walking.

Rey sat wide eyed with the shock of it, her heart racing with the surreal feeling of being surrounded by him and his horse below.

Sharing a bed last night had felt utilitarian. A space occupied by them both, but separate, and it was over before sunrise.

Now, she was pressed tight against him. Her thigh resting next to his, her breathing slowing as they rode on until the rise and fall of her chest matched the kings and she felt the heat of his body through her clothes, warming her skin.

It seemed so innocent, riding a horse, but coupled with the unending physical contact, she felt it become personal, intimate even.

After a minute or two of passing the line, Rey realized with a flush in her cheeks that she was holding onto his arms, her fingers digging into the black. She quickly let go to grip the head of the pummel hoping he hadn’t noticed.

When he spoke asking if she was comfortable, she could only nod quickly as she shut her eyes “I am” She said, her throat dry, heart racing. The feeling of his slow exhale along her neck made Rey’s skin goose and tingle.

“How far is it?” She asked with a nervous waver in her voice as she wondered how long one could endure such close proximity to the king.

“Just half a mile.” He said and she felt his voice in her own chest. The sensation surprisingly wonderful.

Just…

Rey did her best to ignore the feel of him and instead began to look around at the world from this view. She’d never sat so high in her life.

There had been trees to climb a plenty in her forest, but that was different, a fun, wild thing to do as a little girl with only the spirit guides to watch over her. She would climb to the tops of the trees, watching the birds and squirrels… that had been carefree and adventurous.

This felt rooted, and primal.

The sway of the stallion made her hips rock, though she sat side saddle with her knee bent to keep her facing forward.

Her chest would rise and fall as her hips moved no matter how much she engaged her muscles, willing her body to be still like his, it was no use. Kylo spent his life on horses, she walked the forest barefoot.

Ren pulled her from her trance when he took the reins in his right hand, resting the left on his thigh which was frightening for a moment as she feared she would slide down, but he knew better.

She could lean ever so slightly into the curve of his body now, and her own was calm as they went.

The men watched, she saw them glaring up at her, astonished that their king would escort the witch himself and she wondered if they thought he was weak for it?

But when she chanced a look up at him, Rey knew no one would ever mistake him for that.

She bit at the corner of her lip and looked away, deciding it best to keep her eyes ahead.

The world was so peaceful up here with only the sounds of the horses and men moving along and birds chirping in far off trees.

Ren was lost in his own thoughts and did not speak to her again, which was just fine with Rey. She was able to enjoy the moment without the interruption of his deep cadence vibrating though her body, awakening things that she preferred to leave dormant.

When they did eventually come to the front of the line, Rey could see a small group off to the right of the marching men.

The knight, Sir Vicrul had fallen from his horse and they’d moved him aside, where he still lay, moaning as the king and the witch approached.

Ren stopped the horse and pressed his boot into the stirrup swinging down and away from her.

Focused on the ailing man, Rey hadn’t noticed him take her waist in hand, until the king pulled her from the saddle.

Their eyes locked and she held onto his shoulders as he lowered her down, her face passing closely enough by his that they shared a breath, their hearts beating in unison for just a moment before his raced ahead and hers slowed.

For a small slice of time, the world around them seemed to fade into darkness leaving them in the light as her toes touched ground and her hands slipped from his chest.

Brushing her hair back with the tip of his thumb, letting it glide along the outline of her face, the king studied her, and she him until he gave a faint smile. The first she had ever seen.

Something had passed between them on the ride. She knew it, as did he. There’d been an ease to it. Like she fit against him without effort, and he cradled her in a way that was all too natural.

“Are you alright?” He asked gently.

Rey nodded, she could feel the heat rush up her neck to her ears. “I am king —thank you.” She said, speaking of much more than his escort. That smile alone would see her forget her hate if she was not careful. Refusing to give in, Rey ignored the powerful fluttering in her heart and how it felt when he looked down at her this way, with his sparkling dark eyes and those full soft lips...

“My liege.” The spell was broken by the sharp voice.

Rey looked up to see a man, nearly as tall as the king, with beautiful red hair and piercing green eyes.

“Yes,” Ren said stepping back, remembering why they were all here. “Show her.”

The red haired man bowed quickly and looked down at Rey.

“Whatever you did, my… lady. The man suffers a great deal. You must heal him before we can move on. Sir Vicrul is a knight of the king, a man more valuable than all that you have, more valuable than even you. Do you understand?”

She glared at him. What a shame such a pretty man seemed to have so rotten a core. “Let me see him” She said brushing past them both, all softness she’d felt for the king gone cold and hard with the need to be the witch again.

The knight opened his eyes through his groaning and watched Rey’s approach.

He looked terrified, which hurt her feelings a bit, but she ignored him and kneeled down. “I won’t hurt you, I promise.” She said in her kindest voice of healing.

He looked to the king who nodded, then back at the witch.

“You already did that!” He shouted, his voice strained with pain.

“Yes, well, your were trespassing on my land.”

“It’s the kings land.” He insisted through clenched teeth.

“Not my forest. It belongs to no one, not even me really— would you like to do this all day, or would you like me to help you?”

“Stop being such a bastard Vicrul and let the woman help you.” Ren sighed from behind her, clearly not in the mood for this banter.

Rey appreciated the effort. “Now what’s hurting you?” She asked, seeing that the man had calmed with the words of his king.

Vicrul took his time answering and she realized it was not fear that stopped him, but what seemed to be embarrassment. “It’s… well. It’s my stomach.” He said.

“Are you sure?” She asked suspicious.

He nodded and she wondered how she would be able to look him over with all of this armor on. Questions would have to do for now. “How long have you felt this way?”

“I don’t know, since you tried to murder me.” He answered.

She rolled her eyes, ignoring him and began a quick assessment of his body. She noticed something about his hand, laying limp at his side. “Turn your hand over, palm up.” She instructed.

The man did as told and Rey’s eyes narrowed. “Tell me, Sir Vicrul, do you have that same rash all over your body?” She asked.

He was slow to reply, and when he did it was just a nod.

Rey hung her head. “I do not wish to humiliate you sir, but I think we both know it was not my magic that brought this on. Was it?”

“What is she talking about Vicrul?” The red head asked.

The knight looked away, shaking his head as though it hurt him more to say it than the pain itself.

Having some pity on him, Rey stood and crossed her arms. “I’ve seen the mercury cure it and I’ve seen it kill. It looks to me like you might be better off letting nature take its course.” She said and turned away.

“What is she referring too?” Hux asked the man, but Ren just snorted a laugh.

“You fool.” He said looking down on the shamed soldier. “You blame your ailment on her, when really it comes from bedding too many whores.” He shook his head and looked over at Rey. “Forgive me, it was wrong for us to believe his accusations without looking into it first.”

She shrugged. “I suppose I’m used to it.” She said and started walking back towards her place at the end of the line.

“How did you know?” Ren asked walking up along side her.

“The great  pox came to Jakku some years back. Took a few of the worst with it. And a couple of innocents as well.” She said, memories of trying her best to cure a girl who’s lying husband passed it to her, came back. Enough time had not passed to heal that wound. The sore riddled woman had always been kind to Rey, from childhood on. Rey had been able to ease her suffering but she could not rid her off the sickness. “I don’t hold a persons’ wants against them nor the need to act on them when it’s a mutual choice, so it seems a cruel fate that something that brings such joy could end so terribly."

Ren smiled but she did not see. “You have a kind heart. It’s a weakness in this world, but I can see the good in it.”

She stopped and faced him. “There is nothing weak about it. Living in peace with those who fear me is a sign of my strength and I pride myself on it, for that is who I am.”

“You’re also capable of killing.” He reminded her with a raised brow.

“I am, though I would never take true pleasure in it. I just wish to protect myself from those who would harm me.” She said, and wondered how someone could be mad enough to find weakness in being kind.

Perhaps that voice she’d heard in Ren’s head planted the seeds of cruelty and hate so long ago, the tendency towards kindness had been snuffed out before it could sprout.

Still, she was convinced the priest had failed. There was a tiny sliver of good in this man. Rey could sense it, and she hated that he allowed her a glimpse, whether intentional or not. It kept her hopeful when she should not have been.

Clearing his throat, Kylo looked around with a sort of nervous hesitation he’d not displayed before. Amused and intrigued, her head tilted as she smiled. “Is there something else?” She asked.

His eyes darted back towards Hux and Vicrul, who was slowly making his way back up onto his feet.

Stepping just a little closer as though they might hear him, he looked down at her.

“Would you, walk, with me?”

Her gaze danced across his face as she tried to understand his intentions. “But your horse?”

“He’ll follow.” The king said and she saw the smile in his eyes.

Rey peeked around him to the army trudging past, then back up at Ren. She had no desire to go back to sitting in that fucking cart, that was for certain. Walking through the countryside with the king seemed a decent alternative.

Her simple nod relaxed his shoulders and they fell into step, distant enough from the soldiers to afford them privacy but not so far that king nor kings-men would loose sight of one another.

“Will you tell me something honestly.” He asked, and Rey looked up, impressed as his stallion did indeed begin to follow them.

“Yes, I might” She answered. He shot her a look that made her smile.

“Were you born with your magic?” He asked, “Or was it learned? What I mean is, did you have to awaken it, or was it always there?”

Her mouth twisted to the side as she considered not telling him, but she knew why he asked— even if he was nervous to admit it. “Born.” She said, wanting to add, ‘as were you I think’, but she decided it best to keep that inkling to herself.

He nodded and looked ahead as he spoke “So you were always aware of it then? No one had to show you, or explain it to you?”

“That’s right. I thought everyone could feel it, the force and it’s power. I did not realize we are so few until I was older.”

He glanced down at her “Did you find out the hard way?” He asked, as though he knew just what it was to live life with a secret that could frighten and harm people when left unchecked.

Rey nodded. “I did, as most do.”

“And, how did you end up here? If the rumors they told me in Jakku weren’t lies, you’re not from the Long Isle?”

“What you’ve heard is true, I was born on a ship… my father’s.”

He looked over at her, clearly surprised “Do you remember them?”

“My family?” She asked.

“Yes.”

Rey shook her head, her eyes a little sad as she looked out to the open fields “I have memories that have faded so much over time I wonder if they were dreams or reality. Sometimes I can see a face. Eyes, beautiful eyes that I think might have been my mothers.”

“Why would they abandon you?”

“They didn’t… well, I’m fairly certain they didn’t. It was strange and I was so small. I know that there were people coming for us, and I only have that memory because I can still feel the cold air against my face as I was carried away in the dark. There was a ship, but I remember nothing good after that. Only the loneliness and the fear.”

“The man that took you?”

“Unkar?”

He shrugged.

“Unkar was, well… he fed me sometimes, so I suppose that was good. I stuck with him only because I was too small to be alone. Even little I was smart enough to know that.”

“But still you ran from him?”

“I said he fed me sometimes. Not enough to receive any loyalty from me. When we traveled through Niima, I snuck away while he drank at the inn and hid.”

“You were a brave child.” He said looking at her again.

Rey snorted a laugh “I was starving and sad and scared. Running seemed better than staying on with him. Even at that age I knew I did not want to spend my days scavenging for Unkar or for more food.”

“And how did it work out for you?” He asked, curious to hear her version of life in the village.

“It didn’t.” She said bluntly “But, I suppose I’m something of a survivor. I also listened to the voices others shut out and let them take care of me."

“Voices?”

“You’ll have me killed for practicing dark magic if I say,” She teased and squinted up at him.

Kylo groaned and shook his head. “You have my word, I will not give the order.” He said, and they shared a sidelong glance and smile. Rey let hers fade as she walked beside the king, her eyes lingering on his face. She would speak honestly, for his sake, not her own.

“What I have inside of me… it’s something powerful that connects and binds us all together. Through this force, I’ve learned that death is not the end Kylo, just another stage of living. The ones who became aware of me, they lived with that same power in them. I survived because of my magic. It was a strange life, but there are times I’m thankful for it. I never had to fight for food, or beg. I was never tolerated by unloving relations, stuck with the burden of me. Or left to rot on the streets.

“But the villagers feared you.”

She nodded “They did. The people of Niima are —they have no prospects. That shouldn’t make them cruel, but, it does in the end, almost always. Thats what makes the few who cared for me so undeniably good. Those people knew from the start that I was different from them, but they saw that I was still a child, not a thing to fear. I wonder,” She looked up at him again, her brows drawn close in thought “If someone had taken the time to do the same for you, would you be the man you are today? Or would you understand and control of your power.”

The king walked beside her in silence, thinking over the things she’d just said. Then without warning, he took her by the arm and pulled her around a tree off a little ways into the field.

“What are you doing!” She demanded, startled.

“Listen to me.” He said jerking her close. “I know what you think I have, I hear your words, but Rey, I do not share this with you. It’s not who I am. We are not the same. And these men, they all look to me, just as the people of Alderaan and the other kingdoms do. I am their king, I will be their king until the day I die. I rule them as I know how, just as I fight with a sword and shield. All of it, every thing I do, I’ve done without spells and magic.”

“Why?” She asked pulling away from him.

He looked at her as though he might lash out, but she realized he was just trying desperately to find an answer.

“Because you were told to be that king?” She pressed him. “By that voice I heard in your head. The priest. You say he’s protecting you, but what if he’s only protecting himself.”

“From what?”

“You, Kylo.”

This stopped him speaking for a moment as he thought, but he would not agree so quickly. “You’re so determined to see me as a man of your own making. You don’t even realize, how closely your words resemble the high priests’. Both of you wanting me to be the man living in your head —I can not be anything more than what I am.” His voice shook her, she felt the impact of the accusation in her heart, but she did not let it stop her.

“Because he told you so?”

The king’s eyes widened with frustration over the uncomfortable truths she forced him to confront.

“I don’t wish to upset you.” Rey said and carefully placed her hand on his chest to calm him. She looked up and felt the urge to smooth his furrowed brow, but refrained. “I only wonder why I’ve questioned more about your life in the few weeks I’ve known you, than you have in all the years you’ve lived it.”

Breathing a little too hard, the king clenched his jaw, his eyes darting back and forth between hers as he searched wildly for a reply.

When none could be had, he reached up and for a moment laid his hand over hers, covering it completely, before pulling it away.

“Hux will take you back” He said and with one last deep look into her eyes, he turned and walked off, leaving Rey to regret the exchange if only for upsetting him, but she stood by her words.

Stepping out from around the tree, she watched him go, catching up with his chancellor quickly.

The awful nagging at her heart was worrisome, as it’s origins were easy enough to place. She watched him mount his horse and trot towards the front of the line, never once looking back and Rey knew that while she’d worked her way into his mind, she was not pleased to find the king lodged firmly in her own.

Armitage came up on his cream colored stallion and extended his arm which she accepted with a little hesitation and pulled Rey up behind him before she could decide what to feel for Kylo.

She held tight as they galloped away from the front, Rey noting the difference between sharing the saddle of a king and riding behind his intolerant chancellor.

As they rode, she went over the conversation with Ren in her mind, deciding that it might not be worth pushing the king further. He seemed happy to live a life of personal mystery. Perhaps she should let him continue and instead worry about how she might escape this mess before something irreversible happened. If their moment shared after he lifted her from his horse was any indication, she would need to act quickly, Rey thought and tucked her chin to hide the faint smile and the shame that came along with it.

Hux delivered her back to the watchful eye of Harold and her guards without a word, turning his horse and trotting away as though he’d dropped a sack of grain to the ground and was relieved to be free of it.

Retreating back to her corner, Rey sat on the stack of hay with a huff and did her best not to ruminate over the king.

It wasn’t until they came to the next stop that she was able to climb out of her cart and away from her racing thoughts, hopefully never to return.

Once in the camp, Harold stuck to her side, taking her to a small empty tent where she was given food while the anxious page watched her take every bite. Sigur stood silent at the door to keep them in, and others out.

She was then escorted past the gruff soldiers, who settled down to eat in various places. They eyed her intently as she passed, and though Rey was very good at hiding her fear, it was that very lack of it that confused them so.

She was whispered about here, among these men, more than she could remember having ever been the topic of conversation before, and Niima was a village full of old gossips.

By the time Harold left her in Ren’s tent, she was nearly happy to be there and away from the stinking men and their cold glares.

Eventually, Kylo came stalking in and found her sitting on his bed looking nothing less than determined.

He knew that glint in her eye. He’d seen it in many prisoners before, and though he could never bring himself to call her that, she was just as eager to leave him as any captive ever had been. And yet... he was not completely convinced she would.

“You’re well?” He asked with little emotion to hide the overflowing feelings for her and this strange situation.

“I am” She answered.

He seemed satisfied with that and began to undress.

Rey wondered if he liked doing it himself instead of having his page help, as she thought all kings were supposed to.“Are you well, king?” She asked in return.

He stood still, fingers working to unbutton his vest as he looked down at her. He did not reply right away, instead he seemed lost in thought, just as Rey found her own mind wandering...

The memory of him asleep next to her came on suddenly and she remembered what his warm skin felt like under her touch, and how thick and soft his hair was… she looked down worried he could read her thoughts for a moment.

“I am.” He finally answered, but Rey could tell he wanted to say more so she waited patiently, almost amused by the way he kept looking over at her with this, nervous worry between his brows. “If I was -short- with you before. I,” He dropped his head and sighed, tossing the vest and jacket onto the wooden trunk “You say things in a way that just…” Kylo raised his head and met her gaze. So many things could have been said, but instead he just stood there transfixed by the way her eyes sparkled in the firelight.

Pretty eyes that watch his every move, judging and condemning him always.With another sigh he turned from her as he spoke. “You think I’m a cruel man for the way I’ve ruled all these years, but I tell you now, if I truly was, you would not be lying here with your head still attached. Kings are not questioned Rey.”

“Why not?” She asked irked by his empty threat.

He opened his mouth to reply, but instead dropped his defenses and laughed. “Rey... I am tired. We have another full day of travel tomorrow. Will you let a tired man rest?”

Her shoulders lowered as her guard did and she gave a little nod, scooting towards the soft wall to make room for him and keep her distance.

Undressed down to his shirt and pants again, the king came and laid beside her with a heavy sigh.

He smelled like a horse and the dust of the road. Rey assumed she did as well, which made her feel a bizarre kinship with him. Like she was a part of his world now no matter how unwilling she was to join him... him, this beautiful awful man... She laughed at her own indecisiveness knowing her feelings were unfounded. A couple days of unwanted travel did not a soldier make. Nor could it inspire the heart beyond physical attraction. Still, she could not deny feeling closer to understanding him.

As she looked him over, lying still beside her, just the rise and fall of his breathing to calm them both, Rey thought back to his questioning and how little he seemed to know for a man intent on taking over the world. She felt the need to teach him about the power they shared but first he needed to admit to having it.

Such a stubborn man, she frowned as she eyed his long form in the dark. If only he weren’t so easy to look at, and occasionally to talk to. But no matter she sighed and laid down beside him, her arms crossed and tucked tight, her back pressed to the tent to extend the space between them.

They may have shared a few moments today that she would not soon forget. But he was no less the hardheaded bastard that had stolen her away, and she would be sure to remember that as well. And yet, when he turned his head and looked at her in the dim light, she did not turn away.

#reylo au #reylo fanfic #medieval reylo #reylo #reylo angst #kylo ren is king #rey is a witch #reylo ao3 #slow burn #the force is magic

[reyloyal]

Stronghold ~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 2

warnings and summary- Masterlist

The kings words of warning became his own source of frustration.

He truly could not go back into the forest until he knew what to do about the witch. But what could be done with a woman he felt powerless too? A woman who was so clearly connected to things beyond his comprehension...

He'd been told that all women like her were eradicated generations ago. As a boy the stories briefly held his interest. The rumors of women who learned the dark arts in secret, or hid their born talents held a sort of romantic mystery and rebellion. And now to know one in the flesh… he’d not felt a sense of awe like this since Snoke took him from the family home to raise him in the temple. And while he was not certain she was able to use her naturally gifted talents like a priest would, she was more than capable of bewitching him with ease.

A single step into her woods and he'd forget his purpose again -nothing but a fool drawn to her beauty and power- she would subject him to whatever magic she’d used on him the first time. Magic that lingered on, making him restless and unable to sleep even now. He could still feel her prying into his mind. The effect of it left him walking around feeling as though his head were split open and exposed.

He would not risk it. So there was nothing that could be done until he found out more about her. A way to defeat the woman at her own game.

Fortunately, as a conquering warrior king who was quick to gain a reputation for his violent impatience, the people were more inclined to give information than withhold it.

After sending Hux into the village, with the strength of his best knights Ushar and Cardo to stand behind him, it became clear that the town had a history with the girl. The people of Niima were scared to speak of the past, but the shining edge of a sword was known to loosen tongues quickly and Hux was soon told there were two people who knew her story best.

Sitting in the squalid dwelling of an elderly couple, the king listened intently, ignoring the smell.

“Why did the people turn her away?” He asked after the pair had given him a brief introduction to the witch’s history.

The old woman shrugged, the old man sighed, his eyes glassing over. “People can be so cruel my lord.” And Ren could not help but to feel the bite in his words.

“We tried to help her.” His wife added standing behind the mans’ chair across from Ren. “We’d take a crust of bread, some soup if we could manage. Set it down at the edge of her woods. Sometimes blankets. I like to think we helped keep her alive in those early years.”

“And how old did you say she was?”

“Oh, must have been no more than five, maybe six?” The woman replied.

Apparently the people of this village had chased the child away, an orphaned child, but why? There was still a piece of this puzzle missing. “Had she caused some harm to anyone here?”

The couple looked at one another now, a secret shared between them.

“Speak” Ren ordered.

The old man looked up, and a glimmer of his more youthful self showed as he did. “Not only can people be cruel, they can also be stupid.”

Ren snorted a laugh and nodded.

“They would punish a child for the sins of her father…”

“Grandfather.” The woman corrected.

Now this, was truly interesting. “Who is she?” He asked needing to know.

The old man rested his arms on the table, leaning in to speak low “There was a man of magic my lord. A great man, feared by all. Long before your time, but I remember hearing of him as he reigned terror down on the people of his king’s dominion. A great man among his own kind, of your Sith religion some say he was.”

Ren felt his blood run cold. He knew all the greatest priests. Who could this man mean.

“Palpatine, was his name. And he was her grandfather.”

Ren sat back, his eyes narrowing and looking off to the dark walls as he tried to accept this. “No, I don’t believe you.” He said stunned. He had in fact heard of the long dead warlock. The story was before his time, the old man had been right about that, but it was still a story told as a warning, the promised punishment for the sin of coveting power was insanity and death, and his life was a parable told to teach this lesson.

Palpatine had used his dark magic without balance, and the black arts drove him mad, his lust for power unending. The story goes, he killed his own king and went on to rule with terror until he was finally killed, though the stories of who did it or how were never very clear.

It was seen as a dark time for the ancient religion, but because it happened across the Bent Sea, it was never more than that —a story— too removed from their lives to be real.

But now… here was a piece of that tale, alive and breathing, if what these two told him was true.

“Rumors, they was, but powerful enough to follow that child all the way here.” The old man went on. “She came through with a traveling peddler, he being the one who told his buyers he’d acquired the heir to the dark mage. Liked to say if they haggled too much, she’d burn ‘em with her power —you know people in run down places like this will believe anything” The old man said shaking his head at their ignorance. “I believe she got tired of his stories and mistreatment and run off to hide from him, right in our barn, before it burnt down.”

“But why was she with a peddler?” Ren asked.

The old woman shrugged. “Who knows, she was an orphan by the time she came to Jakku, and a hungry dirty one by the time she came to Niima. The man used her to find things to sell, do work, you know the sort, buy her for nothin’ keep her for a lifetime of servitude. I don’t blame her for running.”

“The man didn’t try to get her back?”

The woman shook her head “For a day or so, but, lots of children loose their parents and men like that are always looking for new hands to scavenge.”

He did know the sort.

“So you see, she was never really welcome here. Grew up on her own out there since people feared she’d use her born talent to curse them, even if they were just rumors. Then folks got curious, started snooping and said they saw her out there dancin’ naked with ghosts and such. Who knows, none of our business really. Im just happy she’s alive and not gone completely wild,”

“Oh, she’s beyond domestication,” Ren tossed out, rolling his eyes. “Thank you, you’ve been a great help. Hux!” He called, and the man was there in the shack with a bag of coins.

“For your trouble,” Hux said and tossed the sack onto the table before turning to go.

Ren stood, nearly filing the room and left the couple to stare down at the bag of gold that had the ability to change their lives forever, though they clung to one another hoping they had not said to much and put the dear girl in harms way. "It'll be alright" The man said patting his wife's small hand once the king and his men had gone. "She's not likely to be threatened by him. You know our girl is more powerful than any fool of a king Jocasta."

The old woman nodded her agreement but she could sense something happening, something far beyond her control and she feared telling him might have pushed the man towards Rey instead of away. "I'll go to her in warning, confess that we told"

"You'll do no such thing, and we will fix the holes in our roof." Her husband Frik said and his word was final, leaving his wife to settle back with her worry for the girl.

Once outside, Ren and Hux took deep breaths of the air that was only slightly less offensive than in the shack.

A group of filthy children went running past, squealing and screaming, possibly playing, the king wasn’t sure, but he watched them for a while

“Everything alright my lord?” Hux asked glancing up at the king.

Ren nodded as the children began to fight. One pulled the others hair, while another came and bit the hair puller.

“Perhaps they did her a kindness after all.” He said and quickly mounted his horse to leave.

*

Crickets chirped their symphony in tune with the distant call of the white owl as Rey watched her spirit guide fade away, crossing the unseen divide between worlds.

She sat at the edge of the now quiet summoning circle, feeling alone again and suddenly cold in the way one does when the person next to them leaves.

Letting out a long slow sigh, she raised her eyes up to the black sky, watching the stars fade in and out. The moon hung in a thick slice of chalky white and she took some comfort in it, though the images she tried to make sense of stole any joy from her the second she remembered what was seen in his mind, and what her guide had revealed.

She could not go on pretending to ignore what she knew about the king, his men, and now about herself.

She should have never pried, she should not have reached out and touched him, but the force was nearly screaming for her to look. It damn near insisted she see.

And see she did, all of it… overwhelmed but with a better understanding, she stood to clean up after herself.

As she went to grab her broom to sweep up the ash and salt, Rey wondered if she would sleep tonight with such vibrant visions rolling over in her mind, or would she give in and reach out to him, ignoring the voice in her head saying to let him go, let him die, let his end come and let the kingdom be.

leaning on the handle of her broom, she looked up at the sky once more knowing she would not.

*

Kylo paced in his room, eyelids heavy with lack of sleep as he found the dark hours of night to be the worst.

The moaning and cries of the suffering men were deeply unsettling, even to a man who had killed and maimed, the prolonged agony was too much.

He was nearing desperation, and a desperate king is a dangerous one.

The only source of distraction that seemed to keep his head level was this new knowledge of who the woman was.

Rey.

The story the old couple told, had given him a better understanding of her connection to those whispers of dark magic, and a better sense of what to do.

People who did not understand the teachings of the Sith were often afraid of all forms of magic, especially ones so far removed from the capital city of Alderaan. There the religion had stripped away the impurities that once tainted the gods gift of magic. But these wretches, living on the fringes of society still lived with a fear of the dark arts that helped him sympathize with why they ran her out of the village, still it was probably unwarranted when she’d been so young.

However, If she truly was a descendent of the great priest Palpatine, she should have been discovered long before this, and he could only guess that she’d created her place in the forest as a form of protection, not only from the villagers but from those who might wish to enact revenge on the girl for her grandfathers ill deeds.

What a shame, he thought stopping in the middle of the room. Such untapped potential should have a master and a purpose just as he had been guided from childhood, though sadly, the king would never be as great as Snoke or the other lesser priests and pupils (as he’d been told since he was a boy), but what he lacked in magical abilities, he more than made up for in strength on the battle field, and an unparalleled capacity to lead.

It did occur to him that some few, very fortunate kings, were known to have a mage ride along side them during times of conquest. He’d never heard of a woman being given the title, but he was sure the gods would see fit to make allowances for such a unique occurrence.

Should she prove to be as strong as her lineage suggests, Rey might make an accomplice that could see him take the known world…

He rubbed his eyes and looked across the room from where he stood, gazing out the open window, up at the black sky full of stars, and wondered if she was awake too.

Hux warned that he’d grown obsessed, but the chancellor didn’t understand.

This was an incredible discovery, almost as notable as her beauty, he thought with a fleeting smile.

Standing at the window now, Ren felt a slight pull, a distant call from the east that toyed with him. He needed to go back to her… he must go back.

Grunting acceptance of the urge he was forced to resist, the king sighed and shut the panels.

The fact remained that he still had no answers for the men, and a physical body to lay blame on would have benefited him greatly. The soldiers wanted someone to hate for their condition and it could not be him, so why not her? Killing a witch would give them a sense of vengeance, even if a real cure could not be found, at least their king would have given them a cause for their torment, imagined or not.

But even as he thought it, Kylo knew it would never happen.

Once again the idea of taking her life seemed to drain him of his own, as he was hopelessly enamored with the woman in spite of her still being no more than a stranger to him.

There were also the ramifications of killing the granddaughter of a legendary mage to contend with. And if it were not a sin, it most certainly should be.

Although, there was the possibility that Rey was as dangerous as her grandfather —a threat to the king and his religious order, he thought with a start.

Perhaps she was waiting for the right time to strike and take Snoke’s position for herself…

Ren sighed and laughed at his overactive mind, aware that there was some truth in Hux’s accusations of obsession, and started for the bed.

These wild, rambling thoughts were the result of surviving on too little sleep after too many sleepless nights.

But he took the small comfort of knowledge with him to the sheets, certain he might finally find relief from the insomnia.

Lying on his back, Kylo rested his head on his arm and starred up into the dark, until at last the quiet washed over him and he slept.

“Wake up”

The king sat up in his room, as alert as he had been a few hours before.

His heart thudded in his chest, he could feel the blood pumping as he looked around.

Someone was in the room, but he saw nothing changed, the door was still shut, the window too.

“Who’s there?” He said, his voice clear and deep.

“Wake up king, listen to me,”

That soft, sweet voice…It was her. He peered into the dark, straining to find her, realizing he already had. His eyes darted back to the window, and there he saw her, shimmering in the glass, a pale spectre, beautiful and faint.

“Rey?” He could not fathom how she’d done it, but she had, and he quickly got up from the bed, elated at first, but then hesitant. This was no small feat of strength. To do something like this she must be able to channel the power of other magic bearers, but no others were near.

Curious, Kylo went to the window and reached, laying his large hand on the pane, the signet ring on his little finger clicking against the glass “How are you doing this?” He asked looking around, then down through the window to the grounds below.

Nothing, the world was dark and still. But there she was floating as though she existed inside the glass itself.

“Please, no questions, just listen. There are three among you who claim loyalty, but their hearts have long since turned against you. Traitors sleep under this roof tonight king. Seek them out. Before it’s too late.”

For a moment the man was still, his bare chest rising slowly as he breathed in her warning. He shut his eyes damning her as adrenaline coursed through his body.

Kylo turned away, the rage of betrayal igniting his notorious temper “Who!” He seethed.

“I can not say, but, when you find them, you will be free to go.”

Spinning he looked at the fading image of her. “Wait. Can you see me?” He asked still shocked by the power she possessed. Not even Snoke had displayed something like this to him before.

“I see everything.”

Her shy gaze flitted over his half naked form before she looked away, a soft flush rising up her cheeks.

Ren’s heart beat heavy with the knowledge of this connection between them. The feeling was so profound he nearly forgot she’d appeared to give him this fateful message. “Why are you helping me?” He asked. The witch was no supporter of his, she'd made that more than clear and he could not say that he blamed her.

“Be well king, you have lived a life that was never your own.”

Her eyes met his again, and in them he saw the soft look of understanding and sympathy.

“In time, you may come to find it tiresome. When you do wish to rest, perhaps your choices will allow it to be peaceful,”

And before he could command her to stay, the rippling image of Rey was gone.

The room was silent again, his feelings for her and his curiosity as to how she seemed to know so much about him faded to hate for the traitors. He let the discovery sink in and his anger grow once more.

Ren turned, thick hair in his face, jaw clenched and teeth bared as he set his mind to the hunt.

*

The king’s mission was unrelenting and in two days, the traitors had been sniffed out.

Justification was his and Ren felt a sense of resolution in knowing that he’d guessed correctly after all. His accusations had simply been misplaced.

Poison was a cruel choice, and the culprits knew the slow death they’d damned the army to, still they’d continued dosing the water buckets used by the soldiers.

During their interrogations, between broken teeth and noses, blood pouring from gashes left by the angry fists of their fellow men at arms, they confessed that they had grown tired of the fight and of Ren’s cruel orders. Seeing little hope of humanity among them, they chose to end the unstoppable force of the northern army right along side their beloved ruler —or so they’d thought.

The thing these men did not know, was that the poison they’d used had been one of the first that all young royals, with a promise of the throne were exposed to during their training with the Sith, making them immune.

Kings who could be killed so easily weren’t very practical, which was one of the many reasons why being trained within those stark halls was an honor for any who would eventually be crowned.

With their plot to murder the king and his army a failure, the men now stood in the field behind Vonreg’s manor—ready to meet their fate.

It was a quiet morning, the sound of bird song cheerful in the distant gardens. With the sun shining down on the field and the agony of the men hushed, the reason for the gathering could not have been guessed by any who passed.

As the traitors were line up, one behind the next, the antidotes natural ingredients were being collected by the women of the village on Ren’s orders.

Knowing the cure was within reach, the ranks were calm with the guarantee of relief. Many of the men seemed strengthened by the discovery of the cause for their plight and those who could manage, asked to be propped up and they leaned forward to watch as their King acted out the sentence, which (as all had suspected it to be) was death.

Throughout the king’s life, there had never been a man or woman who looked on him and doubted his physical ability. In a room of one hundred men he would stand among the tallest. Broad shouldered with arms and legs of solid muscle, he was built to strike fear and want into all those he met.

Standing in the sun now, broad sword held so that all may see, he towered over the first of the traitors— kneeling with his neck stretched over the block— and looked every part the god-king Snoke had molded him to be.

His finely made armor caught the light, blinding the men who watched each time he moved.

Lifting his sword high with both hands, he brought it down with the heavy precision needed to remove a head from a body in a single blow.

Once, twice, three times, and it was finished.

Sliding his gloved hand across his face, smearing the splatters of blood, the king stalked towards his surviving army, and pointed his dripping blade at them without saying a word.

The men looked to their king knowing that this was a warning, not an act of vengeance for their sake, but a display showing that the same fate would fall —sharp as his swords edge— and take their heads too should they choose to rise against him.

“Long live the king!” Hux shouted as Ren turned and walked away, practically tossing his weapon into the arms of his squire who tumbled backwards under the weight.

“Long live the king!” The men echoed as he left them.

*

Inside the narrow manor halls, Ren pulled at the straps and buckles that kept his armor on.

Down towards the Dukes baths, he trudged, desperate to wash the hot blood from his face.

He hated it. Hated killing. Not because he didn’t have the stomach for it, but because these men continued to be foolish enough to force his hand.

“Fucking, bastards” He grumbled wanting to be free of it, to just sit in the dark and vanish for a while.

Once he’d made his way underground, past the cellars and into the nearly cave-like room which housed the bath, the servants assisted the king, pulling off the remaining layers until he stood bare in the dim room. Looking over at the waiting water, Ren mentally thanked Vonreg for having enough good taste to build his estate near the river, which more easily allowed for such indulgences.

As the servants made off with his dirty clothes (too frightened to touch the armor) Ren walked down the shallows steps into the stone pool and turned his back to the wall. With a quiet breath the king sank into the warmth slipping under the water to lie in the womblike silence.

When the need for air forced him up, Ren pushed to sitting, running two aching hands over his face, sliding them back over his hair.

Shutting his eyes he lay like a rock, his neck resting on the ledge of the bath and sighed.

How many more would betray him… How many more would seek to ruin him?

Was he not a good and just king? He was strong and brave enough to lead his own army into battle instead of sitting inside a comfortable tent like others might. And when the fighting was finished and they’d claimed another land as their own, did he not offer his men all that they could ever want…. So why then did they always want more? And when would more be enough…. Perhaps it was not more they wanted?

“Are you tired of it yet?”

The kings eyes sprang open but he did not sit up.

The Witch. Rey.

“I am” He told her, the surprise of her arrival fading faster this time.

“Me too… I, am tired of hiding. You, want to disappear. Maybe that is what brought us together.” She wondered aloud,

“That was fear and superstition… and perhaps a desire to find answers more digestible than mutiny” He answered splashing water onto the stone floor as he rose up to sitting.

The king was met with the shimmering image of her sitting across from him. Her face was highlighted by the glow of candles scattered about the room, but it was the sight of her long legs in that lotus position that distracted him, but only for a moment. He had so many questions for her and no idea of where to begin.

“How do you know so much?” He finally asked.

“I saw everything when I touched you.” She easily replied.

He could still feel the hard press of her fingers. “You did something to me that day that I’ve only heard rumors of.” Was her ability to invade ones mind inherited or learned, He wondered, but then, who would have taught her?

“It doesn’t matter, just know that you will live to fight another day.”

She sounded disappointed.

“You’re unhappy?”

“I saved you and your men, yet I still look for answers as to why I made that choice.”

“Could it be that you prefer me alive over dead?”

“I don’t prefer you at all” A hint of surprise at his suggestion laced her words and her ghostly head turned away, defiant.

“It would seem you and my men have that in common” He replied, sorry for the truth of it and for the sting in his heart.

She looked back at him and sighed, shaking her head as though he were a troublesome child.

“Did you even hear them before you acted?”

“What?”

“Did you hear their last words? Their reasons for doing it?”

He often forgot to bother with that bit (when prisoners were even given last words) but this time, he’d asked Hux what the leader of the three said.

“They, didn’t want to move on.” He admitted. “Said they wanted to be let go of their duties to their king, for —my path was “not one they could follow.” He mocked.

“And yet you killed them anyway.”

“They were traitors.” He said scowling at her. “You would have me let murderers live among us? Why bother telling me at all if that’s how you feel.”

“You’re all murderers.”

She spoke so bluntly. Her persistent lack of a healthy fear for his authority irritated him to no end, like a grain of sand in his eye. A deep growling dismissal of her words vibrated in his chest. “I am a king. This is what being a king is,”

“Really? Is that so?”

“And, how many kings do you know? If memory serves, you said none.”

“I know only men, men who wish to rule, men who have ruled and men who will. Kings are nothing but the stuff of dreams. Arrogance and entitlement with a pretty crown.”

He was beginning to wish she would disappear as quickly as she had a few nights before.

“Don’t look so hurt. You know who and what you are. And while your ways frighten me, they’re not so much worse than ones who came before you. I’ve seen the same viciousness in others. And I’ve seen them change.”

“And why would I want to change.” He asked, fingers moving in the water as he looked away, angry that he’d not immediately dismissed the idea.

“Why would you want to stay the same?”

Ren took his time looking back into her eyes.

She was younger than him, he was nearly certain, and yet she spoke as though she’d already lived a lifetime. She mystified him, confused him, angered him, intrigued him…“How are you doing this? Tell me.” He asked moving past the strong feelings to change the course of the conversation.

“It’s not just me, it’s you too. When I looked, I could see that you have the gift as well. Like I said, we’re similar.”

She was mistaken. Anything she might have seen in that moment was a direct result of her magic as his talents were few, but her… Does she not know, he wondered. Who she is, who she comes from? If she didn’t he would not tell her like this. He felt it only right to say in person that she possessed the blood of an unmatched mage. A warlock of no comparison.

“Will you come to me?” He asked sitting up straight. “I, think we should meet once more before I go.”

Rey looked at him and shook her head, her hair falling over her shoulder. “I will not. If you want to see me again, you’ll come here to me, though I can’t see the point in it.”

Without the threat of being poisoned, the prospect seemed less troubling than it might have a few days ago, but still, he was a busy man with people to lead. What would they think if he went off, disappearing into the forest without good reason this time.

Kylo quickly shook those worries from his mind. He was king, and no one would dare question him. They’d watched him dispose of three men in three strokes. No, he would do as he pleased.

“I will come to you,” He said, happy at the prospect of seeing her in the flesh, yet, nervous anticipation flashed in his dark eyes.

She seemed uneasy as well, but with a single nod, her permission was given, and her ghost faded from view, leaving him alone to sit and wonder if he was making a wise choice.

*

Alone in his rooms that night, the king took out pen and paper.

Starring at the blank page, his mind drifted for a while, seemingly unable to put his thoughts down in ink, until finally he chose honesty and began to write.

High Priest Snoke,

I write to you from my temporary residence in the village of Niima.

While our losses here held back the advance, it can not go unsaid that we made a quick and all together uneventful show of arms, defeating the kingdoms army a few weeks ago as my other ravens sent have informed you. It is with confidence that I ready the army to complete the final conquest.

And so I write to you now, not as king, but as a man, and a servant of the order. I have met someone, a young woman, who has shown some talent in the ways of magic that I believe you should be made aware of. I know of the purging history, but I feel this woman is more than an overlooked conjurer. I intend to find out more about her as I would not waste the time writing if I did not find the matter worthy of some attention. There is a strange feeling of being pulled towards a lighter sense of self when one is too near her. We proceed south in our efforts to sack Bespin in two days. I will send another raven after the victory with an update on any findings about the girl.

—Ren

He folded the letter, dripped the wax and pressed his ring creating a seal.

His page came running as soon as he was summoned and Ren handed the letter to him, giving the boy instructions to have it in the air that night.

Once he was alone again, the king retreated to the small dining room near his suit and sat at the window-side table where he’d take breakfast each morning.

His men finally slept in silence now that the fever was gone, and the antidote administered, but his world would not stay quiet.

Thoughts of Rey —of who and what she was, bombarded his mind with a chaotic clatter. So much so that he thought of calling for the boy to come back and instruct him not to send the raven, only to think better of it and let him go.

Snoke should be informed, he convinced himself. He is the high priest after all, and any source of magic would be reported to him now that Ren had expanded the Sith religion south throughout the kindgoms.

And yet, the nagging sensation of having done something wrong continued to eat away at the king. As though he’d betrayed her somehow, exposed a secret she’d kept for so long to someone who could so easily be her enemy.

But high priest or not, Snoke was a subject under authority of the king. And if the man thought Rey might be a threat or wished to cause her harm, Ren would simply not allow it. After all, his duty as savior of this place was to protect it’s people.

He looked down at his hands resting on the table and sighed, wondering if such strength could be used to save instead of kill, and if he would ever choose to try.

*

“A letter for you my king” Hux said turning away from the messenger boy.

He crossed the dark room and delivered the letter to Ren who stood in the window of his chambers, brooding as he seemed to do here in Jakku.

Glancing at the scroll in Hux’s hand, the king saw the mark of Snoke’s stamp and took it, opening it quickly.

King Kylo Ren, First of his name, follower of the way,

If what you say is true, and this woman has garnered enough interest that you thought to write to me, then my advice to you is simple. Keep her close, do not let this witch out of your sight and when the battles are over and your expansion satisfactory, bring her home to me and I will assess her talents properly. Until then, know that a woman of magic can be a terrible thing, one worthy of a Kings attentions even more so. She is untrustworthy as are most of her sex, but with the ability to trick and stumble a man, she is a danger.

Be safe young Lord, remember who you are, and though magic is not strong with you, your power is of body and mind. Do not let her sway you from your path, steer her towards yours.

Be well.

Your humble servant,

High Priest, Snoke

Ren moved to sit in the chair at the writing desk and tossed the paper onto it.

“Is everything alright my Lord?” Hux asked cautiously walking towards him.

No, he wanted to say. I’ve made a mistake, he answered silently but had no desire to say it aloud.

Hux was his friend of a sort, as friends of kings go, and yet, he was not sure he could trust him with this either.

With a slow exhale through flared nostrils he reckoned with the fact that there were times he felt truly alone —much like Rey.

“Nothing you should worry over.” He lied and slid the paper aside, still stewing over the words as he tried to figure out his next steps.

Keep her close?

He rubbed his chin slowly thinking this over. Keeping her close would mean taking her from her home, as he had no intentions of staying in this hellish mud put. But the idea felt surprisingly wrong. He imagined her tearful heartbreak at being carted away, but, if she were a terrible danger then Snoke was right to suggest it.

He sat wrestling with the idea for some time until he shook his head wanting to be done with the dilemma.

Perhaps, he thought, if he simply asked, she might be willing to come with him… what wonders might she posses? He now imagined her wiping out enemy forces with a flick of her wrist, which was amusing, but there was some genuine curiosity in this too. He’d seen the things Snoke and the lesser priests could do, she might possess similar powers.

Feeling determined, Ren stood and called for his page to help him dress.

He’d promised to go to her, so he would, but with more than secrets, now he came with a proposition, and should she refuse —his authority as king.

*

Three days after she’d found Ren in the baths, Rey sensed a presence in her woods.

Not a seeker or a lost soul, no one in need of help in the usual ways, but one desperate indeed.

She stood, her hunting forgotten, and listened as he neared.

The sound of his heart was as it had been the first time. A strong, steady beat instantly familiar.

Now that she knew who this particular rhythm belonged to, she felt her own pulse quicken.

Brushing the dirt and sticks from her skirts, she picked up her basket of small game and findings, and headed back for the clearing.

He’d found her easier than she’d expected and seemed to be looking for the stone steps to the doorway, as if it weren’t cloaked in magic.

Rey smiled and sighed.

Poor man.

“Hello King” She said walking up.

Ren turned, glaring down at her, unsure if she was really there or not.

“You came back.” She said.

His expression softened as he nodded. “I did.”

Rey could not stop the tiny smile that turned up the corners of her lips.

She nodded for him to follow and went to a half fallen log where she sat her basket of mushrooms, ramps and one small rabbit down, and invited him to take a seat as well.

When he did, she drew back, having not expected him to sit so close.

It was hard to breathe when he was so near, his size was stifling in a way that made her muscles tense, and a place deep in her belly tingle. The unexpected response her body had to his alarmed her. Looking up into his clear hazel eyes, she accepted the feelings but set them aside as nothing more than nature and spoke.

“Tell me, why did you want to come back? I don’t understand. You found the culprits, it was not me, as I told you the first time. There’s nothing for you here now.”

He shrugged slightly, “Isn’t there?” He asked, no shame in his meaning.

She felt a flush rise up her neck as her eyes flicked down to his full lips set in a stern line. “I, don’t think… I should finish my work,” She stammered, flustered as she stood to walk away, but he took hold of her by the wrist, much more gently this time and pulled her back, so that they were looking nearly eye to eye now.

“You saved my life Rey. And my army. I owe you a debt.” He said, though it seemed there was much more to his words than simple gratitude, and the warmth of his gentle voice covered her until she felt her defenses melt away like the iced river in spring.

Looking off through the trees, Rey swallowed the emotions and raised her head. No matter what the visions had revealed, she was certain of the things she knew about this king. And no magic was needed to understand who and what he was. “I saved the life of a man who brings terror wherever he goes.” She said turning her head to him. “I should be punished for it. Not thanked.”

Her honesty bothered him, she could see that, but it did little to stop her from speaking her mind.

“When I first saw you” She said leaning just a little closer. “You came riding down into the valley on your black horse, head high after a battle where you crushed the army of a good king with savagery and little honor. Your men have terrorized the people of this village. You came here to my home, ready to take my head without knowing if I was guilty of your fabrications or not, and when you move on to the next kingdom, you’ll do the same, until you’ve killed and taken all that there is, until there’s nothing left. Even your own men grow weary of it.”

Her words were powerful, and Ren leaned away, the warmth in his eyes turning to something more akin to hurt, if not shock, and he let go of her.

Rey quickly left, walking off towards the trees, trying her damndest not to break down. The truth was on her side, but it was regret that she felt. Regret that she was secretly happy she’d saved him. She’d allowed her own feelings to stop her from doing the right thing by letting those men poison his army. She should have let them put an end to Ren’s rule, but those sleepless nights plagued by visions of faceless soldiers dropping poison into the water had been unbearable. Try as she might, she’d not been able to escape the sight, and the agony of the ones who drank seemed to torture her own body —it had been too much. She wanted nothing more than to end their suffering, and yes, to save him from such a fate, a fate that had become so intwined with her own…Rey pushed the visions of the future from her mind quickly, listening as he approached.

“In time, you’ll see.” Ren said walking up. “The things I do are for the good of the people. I understand, it’s not what you would do, but —perhaps you can offer some advice when I need it.” He said stopping when he was near.

“What do you mean?” She turned to look up at him, confused.

“I told you, I owe you a debt.” He spoke from the heart it would seem “I’ve come with… an opportunity.”

Instantly Rey felt the world growing dark around her. This was not what she’d been expecting.

The connection between them was undeniable, and she’d assumed he wanted to understand it as she did, but this? This was something else entirely.

“Come with me.” He offered bluntly.

Rey stepped back, her breath growing shallow.

“Come with me and use your powers for something that matters. Your name will be known. The people will fear you as you take your place at my side,”

“At your side?” She could not believe he would dare say such a thing and wondered if he’d seen the visions too.

“As my mage. Few kings have been so lucky to know one as powerful as you, I think it was fate that brought me here, that brought us together.” He said, painfully eager to thrust this offer on her without the slightest consideration of her feelings.

“What makes you think I’m so powerful?” She asked, hoping for both their sakes he would not say what she feared most.

He smiled, just a little as he stepped closer. “I know who you are Rey, you’re not meant to live alone in the woods, hiding from another persons past… I know who your family is.”

She felt sick as he spoke. How could he have known? How could he have found out so quickly. Years she’d spent quieting talks of her lineage, years she’d spent atoning for the sins of a man she never knew. Once the whispers had been silenced, she’d been quite successful in living a life free from the dark shadow of Palpatine. Until now.

“You think you’ve unearthed some great secret?” She asked through a snicker of contempt. “I know who I am, and I will not use what I possess to help you, or anyone. I choose this life, I live alone by choice, my choice, and no other!” She snapped and turned from him.

“Thats not true,” He said calmly. “You told me. You’re tired of hiding. Remember. I know you want to be rid of this place. To see, and do, all the things you’ve only heard about from those free to live it. You envy them, but I am offering you a chance to be that person and more.”

The hairs on the back of her neck raised, and she studied him from over her shoulder. The king’s abilities were far more than he knew.

He’d just spoken her own thoughts aloud. Thoughts she’d had as she sat across from him in the underground baths… and he hadn’t the slightest idea. Fascinating.

Still, she did not dare to say yes to this offer.

“I can not, Kylo, please.” She said looking away again, for the only thing that frightened her more than saying no was how much she longed to say yes, if for nothing more than for a chance to do just as he’d said, to live a full life without fear of her past, free of these unwarranted burdens… but not like this, and not with him.

The king however was not used to hearing no, and it seemed he would not give up so easily.

“Out here, living amongst squirrels and rabbits —you’ll disappear. No one will ever know that you existed at all, outside of whispers and stories. This life keeps you tied to your past. I say, let the past die —kill it, if you have to. That’s the only way to become who you’re meant to be.”

Tears were brimming in her eyes. His words were so full of hope, and he spoke them so gently, like the loving stroke of a strong hand along her cheek.

“Out here,” He went on “You’ve no place in the story. Out here —you’re nothing,”

She took a shaking breath as the tears fell.

“But not to me.” He said and stepped forward as she turned to face him fully. The king raised his gloved hand towards her. “I want you to join me… please."

Rey could not stop the faint gasp that escaped her lips before turning away. She shut her eyes; the sight of him pleading with her too much.

“Do not ask this of me.” She managed.

“Let me show you what I see when I look at you Rey. Let me teach you how to become so much more than this.”

Shaking her head she waved him away before starting for the steps to take her home.

“My lady…” The king called to her back. “If you don’t come willingly, I’m afraid I’ll have no choice” He seemed to force the words from his mouth.

Rey froze, stunned by this quick turn.

She faced him, their eyes meeting, and she saw his capacity for cruelty alive in them.

Of course, how foolish had she been. He was still the arrogant king that rode into the village, the blood of good men staining his blade.

“You offer me your hand, then threaten me when I don’t take it?” She asked feeling her own harsh nature spark to life.

“It’s for the protection of the people.” He said, “I have every reason to believe that unless you’re kept close, and your powers assessed properly, you could be a danger to my subjects.”

With a groan Rey hung her head. Surely these words were not his own. They did not come from him in a way that felt natural and she wondered for a moment who they belonged too —and one voice she’d heard in his mind echoed loudly.

“You know thats not true.” She said peeking up at him. “You can not possibly think something like that is true. What have I done to give you that impression.”

“It’s not what you’ve done.”

“No, it’s not is it.” She brushed the last of her tears away as she marched up to Ren. “All your talk of killing the past, when it’s that very thing that draws you in… scares you.” Her eyes narrowed as she spoke. “It’s him. It’s the damned name that I don’t even use. I’m Rey, just Rey! Not Palpatine! I was not there! I did not commit his crimes!” She insisted, her words growing louder as her eyes grew dark and furious. “I’ve done nothing! And yet you, and people like you seek me out, to lay blame and accuse me of things that I have no control over, things that happened when I wasn’t even alive!”

He looked up, noticing how the the trees creaked like old bones stirring as the sky began to dim.

“You come here, to my home, first threatening me, and then demanding I join you as some sort of what? A gift? Some way out? As though you might save me!” She let out a shout of aggravation. “I am nothing! I like being nothing. Better to be nothing than to be the fear in peoples eyes. That fear you see in them before they even know your name. You know the look. I’m sure of it.” She shook her head, disappointed in him. “You dare come here and threaten me again!” Rey could feel it happening, the surge, the white heat that rose form her core and would show in an ugly way, but he’d brought this on himself. He deserved it, just like all the others who had threatened her over the years.

“You think you’re the first?” She sneered. “You’re not, and I will strike you down just as I did them!” She shouted and the look of shock in his eyes was all the permission she needed.

“My liege!”

Rey and the king both turned.

Two of his men, his own personal knights had gotten in somehow, slipping past her spell of protection, and stood with swords drawn, ready to defend their king by any means.

It was a mistake these men would soon regret.

With a shout, Rey unleashed the brutality of her magic from her powerful hands.

Lighting lashed out and gripped the men, her anger made physical by the darkness she possessed.

It felt glorious to watch the way they screamed silently, watch them twist and contort with the unimaginable pain, the burning that would stop them hurting her…

Without warning, a sharp blow to the back of her head knocked Rey to the ground and everything went black.

***

“Your holiness, the chamber is ready”

The old priest, a servant and his apprentice Antilles stood in the sparse room.

Snoke nodded, thanking the servant silently as he let his golden robe fall to the ground, his thin ceremonial garments beneath the robe were a humble show of respect before the power of the gods.

The long dim room was hidden deep within the bowels of the Sith Temple. The complete silence around them was unsettling, but it was for this reason that they were here.

Snoke glanced up at the large black box before him. Within it’s void, he would find the answers he sought, just as all who came here hoped to do.

The servant opened the door and the priest stepped up into the dark and listened as the heavy door was shut behind him.

Slowly he lowered to his knees, letting the cool stone press against his flesh until he felt the familiar sense of fear. His meditations within the chamber were innumerable and yet, he still succumbed to an initial panic after years of battling his phobia. Yes, the servant and his newest seminary were just outside, but the anxiety felt at the complete deprivation of sight, sound and any sense to ground himself had been his secret shame for as long as he could remember.

Knowing this childish fear would pass, he focused his breathing and in time calmed his racing heart until all that could be heard was its very slow beat.

Much better, he breathed and settled just a bit more into his own mind.

Hands on his knees, palms up, he focused on the power within, calling out to the dark force to guide him and show him what it was he needed to see.

The dream he’d had last night had been much more than an unconscious release, it had been a vision, but it was not clear, and he needed to see.

Who was it, he wondered. Who stood behind the crackling white light full of raw power that had woken him with a start.

As his mind moved deeper into the trance, flying through time and space, he saw many things, heard many voices. It was through years of practice and devotion to the arts that he was able to weed through the many to find the one. This was how he’d found the boy, young Ben Solo. The one he would crown king. He would use that same gift of finding hidden power to know who had come to him as he slept last night.

Through a tunnel of stars his mind raced, the faces and voices left behind. He was very close now, the old man could feel it. Soon, the answer would be revealed.

Letting the force wash over him, Snoke waited until at last, clarity came with a searing burst of light, the impact of it knocking him back.

His eyes opened wide, like two bright orbs in the dark chamber, as he saw beyond his mortal view.

Slowly, the truth became clear. The one he’d dreamt of was not a person, but —an awakening.

A dormant conciseness springing to life. A discovery of power, and that discovery being matched. It was beautiful, and terrifying. Tears streamed from his pupil-less eyes, rolling over his face as a new fear set in.

With a dry gasp he pressed his head with the palms of his hands, the pain of seeing like being stabbed in the skull.

And then it was over. The world was black and empty as he lost the sight, and once again felt his breath quicken with being confined in isolation.

Weary from his findings, the high priest slowly pushed up off the ground, stunned by this revelation. It was nearly impossible for him to accept, but the possibility of it had always been there.

Feeling his own small spark of magic burn hot, Snoke gave a heavy bang on the door to be released.

The door opened and the horrified look on Antilles face reflected that of the high priests own feelings about it.

“High priest! Are you well? Let me help!” The young man offered his arm which Snoke took hold of as he stepped down from the black box.

“Water for his holiness!” Antilles called out to the servant who was waiting by the door.

“What was it? What have you seen?” He asked quietly and handed Snoke his robe.

The ancient warlock slipped into the comfort of the fine silk with a groan. His entire body ached from the deprivation chamber.

There was an answer to the seminarians question, but the high priest was not ready to speak of it just yet. His mind had already begun devising a plan, explaining the inner workings to a soft, eager to please nuisance like Antilles would take time he didn’t have.

“Leave me.” He croaked and pushed away.

Hurt but ever obedient, Antilles bowed and left the older man to walk at his own pace.

As Snoke made his way back towards his chambers, his mind set in a thick fog, he wondered just where he’d gone wrong.

The manipulation of the boy had been so complete even he had forgotten the truth of it all. But not entirely. And so it seems, neither had nature.

His future empire was in danger. The dark magic warned him of it in a way he could not ignore. There was only one man in all twelve kingdoms who could bring on such a feeling of dread and he had just written about a witch found in the forests of Jakku.

Snoke’s fist clenched as he tossed the doors to his suite open. He could not be certain, but the timing made him question this woman all the more.

He would send word, mobilizing the necessary precautions already positioned close to the king.

#Reylo #reylo au #medieval reylo #reylo ao3 #reylo fanfic #reylo angst #enemies to enemies #but not for long #slow burn #please

[reyloyal]

Stronghold ~ a Medieval Reylo Story -Masterlist

completed

summary: Unstoppable though haunted by his tortured past, the feared king Kylo Ren leads his conquest south, growing his dark empire with violence and hate, until fate steps in and alters his path- guiding him towards a most unexpected woman.

A life spent alone on the fringes of a bleak society, the powerful witch Rey lives peacefully hidden away, until a King walks into her forest- refusing to accept anything but her hand.

A Dyad formed by discovery, patience, and love becomes the only force strong enough to face the true enemy~

warnings: (18+Only Minors DNI) period accurate violence and threats to women, blood and violence, killing, war, manipulative Snoke, mentally abused Kylo, kidnapped Rey, hurt Rey (protective Kylo) m/f explicit scenes, oral female/male receiving, vaginal fingering, vaginal sex, outdoors, indoors, consensually all over the place because who wouldn’t climb that tree, pregnancy, Reylo babies!

chapter 1

chapter 2

Chapter 3

chapter 4

chapter 5

chapter 6

chapter 7

chapter 8

chapter 9

chapter 10

#kylo ren #rey of jakku #reylo au #reylo #medieval reylo #kylo ren is king #Rey is a witch #reylo romance #reylo angst #enemies to lovers #reylo smut #reylo fluff #reylo baby #Reylo babies #so many babies #the force is magic #reylo medieval action #slowburn #reylo slowburn #secret relationship #kylo redemption #kylo ren/ rey #rey/kylo ren #reylo fiction #family fluff #heartbreak #reylo heartbreak #reylo ao3 #reylo fanfic #falling in love

[reyloyal]

Stronghold~ a Medieval Reylo Story - chapter 1

warnings and summary- Masterlist

“Rise, young king. Fill your lungs with new breath. Open your eyes, and see all that is yours, and all that you shall acquire.”

A strong summer wind swept up and around the lone tower of the Sith temple, soaring wildly as it came over the flat ledge of the rooftop alter, the air rushing past the solemn face of the newly baptized king.

Confident, yet obedient, the man did as told, letting his eyes open against the last of the water flowing over his face. He took in a slow deep breath, a strong sense of pride for all that he was, and all that he would be, consuming him.

He had come to the temple as the child Ben Solo. Now, after years of training and tutelage under the high priest Snoke himself, he would leave a man and a king.

“Hail, Kylo Ren,” The priest continued, pacing slowly behind him. “First of his name, and ruler of Alderaan” Smiling at his young liege, Snoke nodded approval for the one who would make him more powerful than any priest had ever dreamed. Through this man, and with skillful control, Snoke’s unspoken plans, had been formed into a living, breathing reality.

Looking out at the ancient kingdom before them, the priest too inhaled the northern air.

The view from the marble altar could rival that of the immortals above, so vast and breathtaking was the sight. There had been some newly crowned kings who fell to their knees weeping, overcome by it. But this one stayed upright, Snoke noted with a sly smile. Feeling his hopes restored he continued with the ceremony.

“The sound of your name will strike fear into the hearts of any who stand against you. They will fall to their knees and swear themselves to you, young king, and what they have will too be yours.”

Snoke went on whispering promises over the younger mans shoulder, filling his head with endless possibility, achieved through no more than the king’s rightful sovereignty.

Ren let his eyes settle on the lush kingdom of Alderaan, silent from such a distance. It was as though all the people had simply vanished, leaving nothing but the beauty of the land which was dotted with the ornate structures of the capital city.

But his gaze was drawn beyond what he knew, to peer at that which he longed to attain. His eyes narrowed on the dark horizon of his future conquest, his heart stirred by the words of his priest and mentor.

“You walk with the strength of greatness in your stride, knowledge and holy power live in you, my king. Remember this as you make your way out into the world, as you claim each new kingdom”

While he spoke, two of the priest’s personal servants came up the marble steps from the anterior temple room below.

One carried the crown, the other a knife.

Their red robes stood out in stark contrast to the white stone, like two pinpricks of blood on a pale finger.

They went silently to the edge of the ceremonial pool and stood in their designated places.

This level of the sacred tower was only ever seen by a master priest and royal apprentice and the few fortunate souls who served them and no more.

The altar had no walls or barriers to prevent those of little faith from falling a thousand feet to their death, and because of it, the tower was feared but held in high reverence.

The shallow pool was a circle of the same stone, and had been the place of re-birth for countless kings and priests since the Great Founding.

Now, Kylo Ren was in its center. The eye of the coming storm.

“Where there is nothing, you will bring life. Growth and expansion shall be yours. For you are the one who was promised. You, are the Young King and you alone will bring this world to heel as you take the lands that those before you dared not touch.”

Snoke’s sacred robes were wet from the knees down and dragged like a weight behind him as he continued to move slowly, feeding his own grand ideas to his pupil, for Kylo Ren was most assuredly the king that Snoke had made him, and he would do all that the priest foretold. If he did not, the old warlock would kill him, just as he had the other failed kings and priest who came before.

But no, not this one, he said to himself thinking better of it. Snoke reached out, placing his long gnarled hand on the back of the man’s head. This one was different.

There was not a soul alive who could stop such ferocity.

Raw, beautiful anger flowed through him like falls over a mountain side, anger that Snoke had drawn from the king with a slow, delicate precision over the years until it was time to let the man loose on the world.

Without a word, the ancient priest turned and held out his right hand letting one of his servants place the dagger in it.

Raising his left, the high priest made a shallow cut along his own palm to draw blood and watched as it dripped into the clear water, symbolizing the sacrifice made by all priests to their kings. He said the ancient words that only the holy men knew, cementing the lifelong bond between church and state.

The servant accepted the knife when Snoke was finished, and stepped aside so that the other could hand him the crown.

Forged in the deep mountains, created for this king and no other, it symbolized much to the people, and though it meant little to Snoke, it was a powerful tool for him to use wisely and he would treat it with respect.

Snoke turned to start a new chant deep within his chest, unknown to all but himself as he lowered the crown, simple and elegant, onto the black hair of his new lord, pressing it down, letting the man feel it’s weight.

“Rise now my liege, for you are a true king amongst men.”

Taking his time, Kylo rose from the shallow pool, his golden crown illuminated in the pale morning sun, his god-like frame of imposing height and powerful muscle, naked and dripping with holy water.

Ren allowed himself a single smile, faint though it was.

Once more he took in the sight of his beloved kingdom from this rare view. The jewel of the Long Isle, and just beyond it, calling to him on the back of the summer winds —the remaining eleven.

The land and people alike were crying out for the true king to raise greatness from the wasted dreams of failed men. It was his to conquer and claim and it sang to him, his empire, just waiting to be built.

Five Years later

Too curious to follow the laws of nature, a small white owl caught the late afternoon wind. Happy to ignore her nocturnal instincts, she glided silently overhead to observe the happenings below.

The bird watched from it’s vantage point, silent and unnoticed as a victorious parade of horses and soldiers moved slowly through the countryside.

Steady towards the village the owl watched them march, their rattling armor the only sound made by the men as they spread like a black stain, soiling the land, seeping into the valley and towards the village square.

It was an invasion of nature through the eyes of the owl, and she felt her fight receptors awaken. These humans, these men, brought nothing but destruction.

From the distant crest of the opposite hill, which created the wide valley, a girl stood watching.

Some of the men would later swear they’d seen a ghost, so fair was her form. But she was very much alive, and as the summer breeze lifted her skirts and tossed her hair, the drifting stench of death coming from the battle field filled her nose and soured in her stomach.

Three days since the fight, she thought, focused on the stream of silver armor and dark mounts. Three days of hearing the people mourn have called me from my woods…

The snow colored bird swooped down, her long talons reaching until she stood, perched on the shoulder of her companion, both looking down into the bowl of green, littered with soldiers.

Who are these men?

The girl followed the line with a keen eye, better able to see faces now that they’d neared. But only one demanded her attention and that of her avian friend who watched along with her.

He led the charge and on first glance she thought he might have been a general, but as she studied the large dark figure, she realized he was much more than that.

He rode an impressive stallion behind two banner-men, flying the black flag and red star sigil of his house, one she had never seen before.

His head held high, and chest raised with pride, she knew instantly the sort of man he wished to be, but wondered what sort he truly was.

The kingdom of Jakku was no prize, and no man had cared for it in an age. Not even it’s former king, who so recently met his end.

The girl hung her head for a moment, sorry for the loss of a peaceful, unremarkable king, who had been all together easy to forget. He’d ruled over lands no one else wanted, except for those who called it home, so she wondered why was this one so pleased to have acquired it?

It was clear to her by the way he carried himself, that the man was indeed a king. Though he wore no crown along the victory route, he held the confidence of one born to rule, And she was certain he was unlike any this corner of the isle had ever seen before.

The young woman did not know how or why —not yet. But something had brought this darkness to them, something that felt very familiar…

The owl pushed off to circle the men once more and the young woman watched, waiting to see if any would notice, but none did. They had their eyes fixed on the village ahead, lust and greed driving them forward.

“You will be disappointed” She warned before nodding farewell to the owl as it passed by once more.

Taking to the east, the bird left the girl on the hill, no longer wanting to be a part of these strange happenings.

The young woman felt the same urge to go, certain it was time to abandon the village to its fate.

“Will you give us protection spells?”

The girl forced herself to turn away from the army and looked over her shoulder into the eyes of a new widow.

It should be no surprise that they’d noticed her, she thought, glancing around at the group of women who’d gathered and stood here with their heads lowered in humility.

It wasn’t often she left the woods, and so her presence was as feared as the conquering army.

She studied their faces for a moment, her own pensive.

The same people who would turn a starving child from their door came begging that girl —now a woman grown— for protection. They’d never offered any to her, she thought with a dark gaze at their faces. But for all their ignorance and hate, she would not let a vindictive notion stop her from helping. These poor folk would surely learn their lesson and very soon, given the look of the new arrivals.

Her narrowed eyes scanned the group of faces aged prematurely from a hard life, many with hands worn and callused from endless work, their dresses dirty and patched together.

She felt pity for them and those they lost to the battle. The death of healthy fighters would only add to the hardships of life in this forgotten village, but their past deeds had come to haunt them, and she would not stand in the way.

And yet, as she looked down on the small dirty face of a child clinging to its mothers’ skirt, she knew her kind heart was stubborn and would not allow her to turn her back completely.

She would give them something for the sake of the few kind souls who had saved her when she was the same size as that one.

“Send two. No more,” She said and the woman brave enough to ask gave a nod of understanding.

They knew were to find her, and she would not turn them away.

Satisfied for now, the frightened women turned and dispersed back towards the town, leaving the young witch on top of the hill.

*

The village of Niima was a sorry dull sight that reeked of shit and poverty.

The women ran, fearing for their virtue and the men who hadn’t come to fight hung their shameful heads.

Word had spread quickly that their old ruler had been overthrown and his army wiped away in a single night, so that by the time the king and his men arrived, there was a healthy fear already settling into the bones of his new subjects.

Looking down on them from his horse, the king wondered how anyone could live their life cowering in the filth like these mangey few.

Turning his proud nose up at the frightened people, he gripped the reins of his horse, bothered by their very existence. But, they were needed.

He and his men would stay here to recover their strength, which would require food and drink and other forms of, revitalization.

The townsfolk would see to their demands, whatever they may be, or see themselves dead.

Dismounting, he and his chancellor, lord Armitage Hux, found the inn and commandeered it in the name of the king, ragged and run down though it was.

“And, which name is that my liege?” The old inn keeper asked, bowing his head as he wiped the grime from a table inside the inn’s tavern.

Hux glanced sidelong at the man and sighed deeply through his nose. “Kneel before your king, beg him, show you mercy for such insolence.”

“My lord?” The old man started, confused as to what insult he’d given, trembling as he slowly lowered.

Hux watched to see what the king would do. Would he smile, or would he give the man a vacant stare which could be mistaken for pity instead of repulsion if one did not know him as Hux did.

“My lord, please forgive me, my ignorance is an insult to your great name, it’s only that we do not know it yet” He said and attempted more, but his words were stopped short by the impact of Hux’s boot kicking the old man over.

The king sighed and walked past the tiresome scene.

This place may as well be the edge of the earth. It seemed all they knew of him was the fear they felt now, which was a start, but as the first king in history to take the free kingdoms without a single battle lost, he expected them to at least have heard his name.

Sitting at the dirty table on a chair much too small for a man of his size he gave Hux a nod. “Tell them who I am,” He said calmly, “Be quick”

“Yes my lord,” Hux said, bowing his head before he stepped over the old man to bellow down to him and the fools hiding in the dark corners of the tavern.

“You will all kneel before your king,” He announced and they obeyed though both men saw there were some who hesitated. “Hail, to your king, Kylo Ren, first of his name, conquerer and lord ruler over these lands and all lands. ”

“Hail!” They echoed.

Watching carefully, the king nodded approval and motioned for Hux.

The chancellor was at his side instantly taking mental note of all that his lordship required.

In under an hour, the inn’s tavern was full of soldiers and enough ale and food to keep the men happy and the townsfolk angry, but too afraid to speak up.

Rising from his seat in the middle of the crowded room, the king made his way towards the door, enjoying the cheers thrown by his warriors.

Their admiration for his bravery on the battle field was invigorating, their low bows and fist pressed to their hearts in salute, an incredible display of respect that the king drank in as he passed.

Stepping out into the night, king Kylo Ren —the first of his name— took a deep breath, ignoring the fact that the village reminded him of a piss soaked outhouse.

“My prize” He mumbled with disdain, his eyes scanning the empty town square.

No matter. Jakku and this pile of rot called Niima were nothing more than a stop on the journey. A kingdom he’d claimed because he could, as was his divine right. The true prize was no more than a weeks ride south and he would not forget this fact as he stepped down into the thick mud and horse shit that passed for roads in this village.

Through the warm haze of too much ale, he went around to the side of the inn.

Leaning against the wall to relieve himself, his ears perked at the sound of women’s voices coming from around back.

He listened out of boredom to the women who were carefully roasting more meat for the soldiers.

“She’ll give us something in the morning, I’m sure of it Rebecca.” One of them said softly. “We must choose who will go, for she’ll not turn her back on us now that we’ve left her alone.”

“I don’t know Miriam,” The one called Rebecca said as she took her turn at the spit crank. “We ran her out of town when she were nothing but a child.”

“That was so long ago, she’s forgiven us.” The other woman said, clearly doubting Rebecca’s words, though she was desperate to believe them. “And surely she will not have forgotten the offerings.”

Offerings? What sort of nonsense were they on about?

He finished and stood, listening for a moment before walking silently towards them, his movements unheard, even with the remains of his armor still strapped on.

“But what do you think she can do against an entire army?”

“Nothing.” The other replied.

He smiled. Nothing indeed.

“It’s not them we have to worry about, it’s that king.” Miriam said with a warning in her voice.

Rebeccas eyes flashed raw fear in the light of her cooking fire and Ren felt a surge of pleasure. “Miriam, did you see him?” She asked.

“I did. And I dare not look on him again. Sent chills down my spine to see a young man so fierce, riding up like a damned curse.”

“A curse on this land to be sure.” Rebecca said softly shaking her head.

“But, he’ll be sorry for it if he steps too far off his land and onto hers.” Miriam laughed confidently.

Rebecca laughed too, only to gasp and drop to her knees when he made himself known to them.

“Who do you speak of?” He demanded.

“My lord king! Have mercy!” Miriam pleaded, her large old hands pressed together. “We did not know you were there!”

He rolled his eyes, irritated by the natural fear ingrained in peasants. It did tend to extend a conversation by one too many pleas. “Never mind that. Who were you speaking of?” He asked a little more calmly this time.

The women were too afraid to reply, but he was not a patient man, and he had ways of getting answers.

Marching up to the small one —Rebecca— who was still on her knees, he reached down, grabbed her by the arm and pulled her up, slipping his large hand around her throat. “You speak of someone who would threaten your king, and yet you will not say who?” He asked, his soft voice terrifying.

Rebecca was sobbing as she choked.

“My lord, I will tell you, just please, let her go. She’s with child!”

The king looked down at the woman clutching at his vice-like grip around her neck. Sighing with disgust, he let her drop.

“Tell me now.” He said turning on Miriam.

“It was just women’s gossip. Nothing to truly worry over my lord king. Please, we’ll have food a-plenty for you and your men very soon!” She rambled, as though food might distract him.

He narrowed his gaze at her before taking a backwards step to Rebecca.

With the toe of his boot resting over her head, still inches from the mud, he spoke again. “Tell me, or watch her take her last breath.” He pressed just slightly, showing how easily he could suffocate the girl.

Fear gripped old Miriam, but it was obvious that she’d seen the horrors of men enough times in her life to speak through it. Acknowledging the man she was dealing with, she gave a nod and spoke. “Just a witch my lord. A wild woman who works magic. That’s all”

Kylo pulled his foot away and looked from one woman to the other before laughing. “A witch?” He could hardly believe the ignorance of it all. “You’re serious?”

“You see,” She exclaimed, feigning humor “Just silly talk like I said! Women’s nonsense” Miriam insisted.

He agreed completely and felt just as foolish for having wasted his time listening to them.

Witches had been wiped out generations ago. Women who possessed magic were either of the church and seen as sacred, or dead. Perhaps a cleansing was needed in these forgotten towns…

Reaching down, he ignored the way Rebecca trembled and shrieked when he grabbed her arm again, and pulled her back up onto her feet before turning to go.

“Hurry” He told them “With that food.” He mumbled absently, distracted by the idea of forbidden magic before disappearing into the dark again.

*

With a sense of urgency, a young, somewhat awkward seminarian, trotted down the long halls of the Sith temple making his way towards the areas of public worship. He was breathing heavy with the effort by the time he entered the nave and found the man he'd been sent to look for. “A message your holiness, just arrived from the south.” He managed. The candlelight along the isle was warm and inviting so he was surprised to find the space empty today.

The high priest Snoke himself was standing at the crossing, slowly extinguishing the flames of candles lit by the priests this morning along the large votive that welcomed one to the sacred sanctuary.

“Bring it to me.” He said setting the metal snuffer down on the ledge and turned to receive the sealed letter.

The priest in training lowered in obeisance to the man and held up the note, slipping away quietly once Snoke plucked it from his hands.

Quickly the old warlock read and slowly, a smile crept across his sour, mottled face.

“Good news high priest?” The seminarian asked, though his attention was on the massive pool of water set into the floor of the apse behind the priest. He'd not quite gotten used to it and every time he entered the temple he felt a sense of dread when he thought of it... just how deep did that water go? The god's pool it was called, and it felt as though the ancient ones had carved it out themselves.

Snoke looked down from over the letter and glared at the greasy little man. He did not like having eager little men around, but, it was a part of his life, just as much as the contents of this letter.

“Yes” Snoke answered and watched as the younger man turned his attention back to him.

“The gods have blessed our king?” He asked sounding far too hopeful.

Snoke stifled his irritation and nodded looking past the seminarian to the doors at the end of the isle. The priest began to walk and allowed the young man to walk beside him.

They made an odd pair to any that spotted them. Snoke stood like an ancient pillar of holy dominance. His bald head and twisted face gave him a hard, alarming appearance. There was not a man among them that did not feel some level of fear when his brilliant blue eyes focused on them, such was his immediate hold on a weaker soul. The younger, much smaller man had a round, smooth face, and sparkling eyes, bright with the ignorance of blissful youth. He’d begun to grow his dark hair long and it clung in wisps to his forehead. His black robes were a bit too long, but he seemed proud to drape himself in them each morning, even his stride had taken on a more dour gait. He did so want to look the part of a true priest of the order…

“What is your name, seminarian?” Snoke asked as they went along, side by side.

“Antilles, your holiness,”

Snoke did not bother looking at him again. “You’ve done well to bring this to me. You will see that all letters from the king are given to me without delay. Yes?”

“Yes of course holiness!”

Snoke nodded as they left the empty room to enter the courtyard of the temple.

He made his way to the lone item of decor. A water fountain with the hooded figure of the ancient one, Pall, in it’s center. The originator and the creator of all that Snoke saw around him now.

Strange to be a man of little faith, Snoke thought, eyeing the stone structure. He did not so much believe in the gods as he did himself and he would forever be deeply indebted to the established manipulation of man. So much so, that when he looked at the featureless statue, there was a stirring in his heart. How could the first of their kind have known that generations after lifting the order to such status, Snoke would rise as its true and supreme leader. It had taken years of searching, and in some cases killing until he’d gotten it right. But finally, his rule would be handed to him by the tireless efforts of one very determined, very powerful man.

“All is well with the wars your holiness?” Antilles prodded.

He was nosey and irritating, but Snoke knew an ally when he saw one.

“Nothing will stop him now.” He said, and both men looked out past the courtyard towards the south, “The world is ours, my young apprentice.”

*

Two nights. That had been the plan, two nights to rest and prepare for the final leg of the journey south.

But, as fate would have it, this place —small and insignificant as it was— had not finished with the king just yet.

First, the horses fell ill. Some strange disease that saw nearly forty of the beasts dead, crippling the power of the army.

Ren however was quick to take the best of the villagers animals to replace his lost ones, and his soldiers declared the theft of the people a great gift to their new king. Those who fought to save their horses were sent home bloodied and broken, but with a few coins for their trouble.

With his army restored, and eager to escape the hell of Niima, Ren hastily tried to leave in the night, ignoring the villagers warnings of a summer storm rolling in from the sea.

Convinced that thunder and lightening were the least of his worries, the king pressed his army forward, but was stopped when a mudslide took out the middle ranks, less than a mile outside of the village.

Over one hundred men were washed away that night, wiped out in a dark wave of debris and suffocation, as though they’d never been.

The blow was devastating and saw the king humbled enough to stop and give the survivors time to mourn for the loss of their fellow soldiers and his council time to reassess their strength.

Retreating to the inn once more, the king took the advice of his men and waited a full night and day to let the rains stop and the earth settle, and yet, the morning they were set to leave, a strange fever began to spread, starting with his best man, General Pryde.

Thinking he'd simply caught a chill and nothing more, the general was reluctantly made to rest in a cart that would carry him along the road, however the speed and growth of the fever swept through the ranks like an exponential wave, leaving the afflicted cot ridden, and clinging to life.

All plans to move on were forgotten as the fever raged for days with no end in sight.

Fearing that he would loose everything to the least expected of enemies, the only escape from the madness came from the diligent efforts of Ren’s chancellor and those of his council who remained healthy.

They’d ventured out looking for space to keep the sick, as the inn could not house them all, and came across the only place of status.

The sprawling property of Duke Elrik Vonreg was immediately claimed in the name of the king, and the wealthy land owner had been wise enough not to put up a fight when Hux appeared at his door.

With the promise of fresh air and space for all, the parade of dying men carried on cots and staggering from town was watched by the villagers from behind the safety of locked doors and dirty windows, all of them glad to see the soldiers go, if not fully, at least from their immediate presence.

'Let Vonreg suffer as we have,' they all agreed. It seemed fitting that the man who charged high taxes for the land most everyone in Niima lived on -keeping them poor and indebted- should be burdened with the king and his failing army.

Vonreg however (being a man blind with lust for power and prestige) called it an honor to host royalty and from that first night until this, he filled his table with good food from his stores and better wine from his deep cellars.

The proud man could not see that he was in danger of loosing everything to this new king. As was typical of his sort, the Duke assumed he would be given a place at court after such a welcoming display. And so he gave and gave, ignoring the worries of his staff, knowing he could simply take from the poor folk that were his tenants, all in an attempt to satisfy the king and secure an elevated station.

Hux and Ren were amused by his efforts, but nothing more.

The young king never made promises or ties to people without guarantee of some advantage for himself and, being a restless sort, he would forget Vonreg the moment they left this forsaken village.

Still, for now it would do, and with more than enough acreage, the Duke’s estate proved to be useful in housing the men in their most wretched condition.

During the day, the worried king would go out and walk among the sick, now surviving in the fields behind the Dukes sprawling manor, eager to see some sign of recovery.

He would survey the damage, watching as his own physician tried to heal them to no avail. Even with the assistance of the local men of medicine, the sickness only seemed to get worse.

Days turned into a week, and Ren was tempted to leave the dying and head back to castle Alderaan by the sea, abandoning his once attainable dream. But the king could not leave half his army to this mysterious fate. Perhaps it was a sudden sense of morality, or just the need to keep his numbers high for future conquests. Either way, something had to be done.

On a bright morning, of no difference to Ren, the king stood in the masters quarters he’d taken over, towering above his page as the boy dressed him in simple black and gold finery.

Ren let out a long slow breath, willing his anger at another day spent in this sty, to remain quiet for now.

It would not do to go around running men through with his broadsword when it was healthy, living men he needed to fight and win his wars. He’d lost enough to this place already.

“Finished my lord.” The boy, Harold was his name, said and stepped back, bowing at the waist. He was never brave enough to look the king in the eye.

Ren nodded and turned, glancing in the mirror.

There was no need for vanity now, though appearance matters when one must look the part of a leader, and that he did, as he always had.

Born a prince and crowned a king, Ren could not remember a time when he hadn’t been the portrait of regal confidence. And now —lord of mud and shit— he still took pride in his dark looks knowing he would sit at court again as the ruler of all twelve kingdoms, just as soon as he could leave Jakku.

*

The arrival of an outsider was something the witch could feel in her bones.

Even in sleep she could hear the distant beating of a human heart, and sometimes, the quick breaths of a person who’d come quickly without stopping to rest.

Some dared to cross the line into the forest. They would come looking for her, terrified of the black trees that bent like broken limbs, and of the distant sounds of wild things they could not see.

Others who were too afraid to even step foot inside would just stand there waiting, hoping she would come and meet them.

Feeling generous and admittedly curious this morning, she left her chores to greet the stranger at the edge of the path, their racing heart loud enough to alert the witch.

Stopping just at the veil of haze that separated the two worlds, she looked down on the small villager with large eyes and a nervous disposition. The girl was a reflection of the town and the witch sighed, realizing that it must be very bad in Niima.

“What have you seen?” She asked and pressed her lips tight as she scanned the field suspicious of the dark horizon.

“They’ve eaten everything.” The girl said softly “Taken our livestock and stolen the horses. Now the king’s men are sick and they take the healers to fix them but nothing seems to cure them."

“And what do you know?” She asked in her somewhat impatient way, her eyes still fixed on the view.

The girl named Marilla looked up with tears in her eyes. “They are cruel.” She said through clenched teeth. “They treat us like animals or worse. Now that they’re sick it’s quiet again, but the damage is done.”

“Are they all this way?” The witch asked, knowing the nature of men varies from one to the next.

“No,” She said hanging her head. “But enough, and no one stops them”

She was not surprised by any of it. “And what of their king?”

Marilla’s eyes grew wide at the mention of him “He is the worst of all. He’s taken to the streets looking for someone to blame for the sickness. People run from his path like fleas from a wet dog.” The girls voice shook with anger and fear as she spoke.

“His other kingdoms? How were they taken?” The witch asked calmly.

“With blood. Always with blood. No one has seen the king fight here in the village, but there is talk of his ways. A friend of my brother served our dead kings army and watched the battle from a hiding place. King Kylo Ren cut men in half with his sword, hacked their bodies to bits. They say he took the form of a demon and washed in the blood of the dead.”

The witch finally cast her gaze down at the girl, amused by her ignorance yet horrified by her tale. The villagers were a fearful people thanks to their overzealous priest and primitive thinking, but, from the little spying she’d done on the king and his men, there was no reason to doubt that the base of these exaggerations was very much true.

She feared the king would leave the village in ruins if he and his soldiers did not depart soon. But for now, she would continuing helping the people when she could.

“And what is it you need Marilla?” She asked looking deep into the girls eyes.

Poor girl, with her thick brown hair slipping out from under her linen cap in her rush to get to the woods. The witch saw herself in Marilla’s sad eyes. She could have so easily been her… had her life not been a long tale of magic and heartbreak.

Through the silence as she waited for a reply, it occurred to her that Marilla was hesitant to ask for what it was she wanted. After walking all that way, she, like the others feared the witch’s power, in spite of needing it.

Undoubtably their Sunday services were to blame. The village priest was a master of vicious, verbal lashings and clearly enjoyed scolding them.

Over the years the witch had come to learn of his hate filled sermons, full of indirect warnings about cures and spells outside of those performed by the approved healers. But mostly he ranted on about the insolence of the people who sought out such dark arts, though according to that snake of a man, god would punish them eternally for their acceptance of her magic.

“I wish to protect my family.” Marilla said timidly. “If they take another thing from us, we’ll starve. These apples and mother’s root cellar are all we have.”

The brave ones who did come asking for help, did so with offerings when they wanted something badly enough. Marilla came with a basket of fruit, some apples from her best tree. The witch looked down at the collection of red orbs. “Keep them. I will not take the offering.

“You will not help?” The girl asked, looking horrified.

“I never said that.” And the witch turned away, listening as the girl called out for her over and over until at last she looked down and saw the bottle sitting among her pretty apples.

The white crystalized contents were a powerful salt potion to keep a place protected when used as a barrier, or to protect a person when consumed.

“Thank you!” Marilla shouted, clutching the precious item, and the witch smiled, retreating once more to the safety of her woods.

*

“My liege,” The physician greeted the king, bowing to him under the hot tents in the field.

“Have you found a way to cure them yet?” Ren asked, mouth turned down at the sight of the writhing, moaning bodies, red with fever, blistered and soiled.

“No, my lord. We must have more time.”

The healer feared him, as all men did, but also knew that without a physician’s vast knowledge of medicine, no one would survive this plague, and so he was safe for now.

“Time you shall have, but not much more.” The king said, his gloved finger in the mans face. “If these men can not move by the weeks end, they stay. And you will stay with them.” He turned to go, not bothering to wait for a reply.

Away from the stifling smells and heat, Ren walked to the water well near the edge of the field, thirsty but also curious, as a child, a girl, stood smiling up at him.

“Hello my lord king.” She said, gently twisting side to side like children have the habit of doing. She must have been no more than five or six and her deep auburn curls shone vibrant in the sun. Her large blue eyes fixed easily on the man, who noted that she was clean, and healthy. A tiny rose amongst thorns.

Ren leaned back against ledge of the well and began to pull up the bucket, ignoring her for the most part.

“Are your men going to die?” She asked with the casual curiosity of a child.

He glared down at the girl for a moment before taking a drink, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.

“No.” He said and she looked away eyeing the tent as though she didn’t believe him.

This one is the bravest among them all, he thought and almost smiled.

“Mama says you made her mad.” She said, her tongue licking at the corner of her mouth, as she tugged the hem of her dress, apparently unaware of the severity of her words.

“Who?” He asked lowering the drinking gourd.

“The woods witch.”

Ren felt his world spin a little faster. Looking down at the girl, he wondered what else she might say if he gave her something, but he wasn’t in the habit of walking around with sweets or toys.

“Did the witch make my men sick?” He asked, disappointed in his own curiosity.

She nodded with a giggle and started twirling around before stooping to pick some wild flowers.

Kylo sat watching her, the look in his eyes cold and detached, as though the messenger were not a child but a reminder of the unending troubles that came with this land.

As she played with an ant on a dandelion, he rose up, stepping towards her.

His shadow blocked out the afternoon sun, casting the child into a chilly darkness.

She looked up over her shoulder, motionless and confident as their eyes met. His dark glare being the last thing the child saw before her mother (who had stumbled upon the terrifying sight of her daughter playing under the shade of the king) came running, and plucked the girl up into her arms.

“Forgive her my lord!” The woman cried and ran away, clutching the girl as though her life were in danger.

Kylo watched the woman run back towards the house, wondering what she thought him capable of, but the thought was short lived.

The girl's words were as ill a poison as he now suspected his men of being dosed with.

Marching across the field, he thought back to the day they came to Jakku, how some of the men claimed to have seen a woman in white standing on the hill watching them.

He thought of the women at the inn, the old crone and the frightened younger one whispering of threats and protection against and from him.

Even the Duke had made mention of a woman living in the supposedly cursed forest to the east. It seemed even with the last of the witches dead and gone, the tale of her had spawned stories to frighten bad children before bed. And while Vonreg laughed off any suggestions of dark magic, Ren noticed the way some of his servants whispered strange words when the old man mocked her. They appeared worried that immediate amends were needed to keep them safe, safe from what the king suspected to be a true threat, one capable of taking out an entire army.

Poison is a woman’s weapon, and if she’d lost a husband, brother or son in the battle, would it not stand to reason that vengeance would drive her to attempt something this desperate.

And it had nearly worked.

Enough, he thought walking through the dark halls of the house. He would seek out the threat and destroy it, just as he always had.

*

A line of silent council members stood facing the wall of brambles and dead trees.

The forest seemed to grow this way naturally, blocking even a single ray of life giving light, which created a particularly ominous line between the pasture where they stood and the woods ahead.

On arrival, the king had spotted the only point of entry and quickly led his small party towards the ragged break in the overgrowth.

Dismounting, the men went as close as they dared, but waited for instruction from their pensive king.

He glanced down at the grass beneath his boots, as bright and green as any other field at the beginning of summer, then up to the parted trees.

From here he could see a path, mist covered and barren in spite of spring having already come and gone. The only notion of color was the lack of it, and if anything could be haunted, certainly it would be this forest.

Ren was thankful he did not believe in such simple lies, but there was no denying that this was a strange place indeed.

Suddenly, catching the attention of the king and his nervous men, a crow with wings as black as Ren’s hair come flying past them, soaring into the forest and cawing as it disappeared into the mist.

“You’re not actually thinking of going in there, are you my Lord?” Hux asked from beside him with a raised brow and no lack of suspicion.

The king’s eyes narrowed, fixing on his mission ahead.

“I will see who this person is. And, If there is some threat against me, as I suspect there to be, I shall put an end to her, by my own hand.” He said simply.

“Her, my lord?”

Ren ignored this and Hux studied the king’s pale face. The chancellor’s worry grew as he watched that familiar look of dangerous curiosity spring to life, alive and eager in the kings eyes. That very look had gotten the man into plenty of trouble before and Armitage Hux had been the one to help him out of it more times than he cared to count.

Glancing towards the path, Hux gave a little sigh, resigning himself to his king’s whims. Luckily, the chancellor could easily play the fool, and today required such skill. He’d heard the rumors too. Knowing they were here over a supposed witch was upsetting beyond measure. Of course he knew they must find a cure for the men -however hunting for a crazed woman in the woods did not strike him as a sensible way to go about it.

Looking back to the king, he peered up at the man, certain Ren would find himself in some dire situation before swords could be drawn —he does have such a knack for it. “Perhaps send a few men ahead and see what reports they might bring back to you.” He suggested, hopeful but already aware that his efforts would go ignored.

“I’ll go.” Ren said and Hux nodded stepping back. Arguing with a king was futile.

“The men and I shall wait for you here my liege. If you’re not back by nightfall, we will come in after you.”

Eyes on the task ahead, the king nodded approval.

His hand, placed lightly over the hilt of his sword offered a sense of security that squared the king’s shoulders as he walked on.

Hux was calling something out to him as he stepped through and into the forest, perhaps one last suggestion that he take a few of his knights along, but Ren had heard the warnings. To enter this place, he must go in alone, too many at a time and a curse would drive those who defied her rules mad before they could find their way.

Ridiculous, yes, but, he had every intention of finding this woman and would not allow anything to hinder his efforts.

As he went along the foggy path, a sense of urgency came over him.

The king had never in his life felt such curiosity, like some invisible power had reached out and laced it’s fingers around him, pulling him deeper into the unknown, with the promise of discovery just ahead.

It gripped him so tightly that he ignored the possible threats lurking in the dimness, and let himself be guided by the force that moved him, desperate to know the secrets hidden here.

He traveled past the black trees, their thick branches so twisted he felt the ache in his spine. They dripped with deep green moss that brushed his shoulders as he passed under them.

The sky here was grey and there was little distinction between it and the mist covered floor. So much so, that between the curved trees and the invisible horizon, he began to feel weightless, as though there were no up or down, only forward and back.

Back was not an option.

As time began to slow, and he wondered if he’d been walking for minutes or hours. His breathing relaxed to a calmed in and out, like the breath of sleep and the urgency died down to a peaceful awareness.

He was not so alarmed by the condition of the forest anymore, or the sounds of creatures off in the distance that should make him draw his weapon. Instead he realized that nothing here would cause him harm, so long as he stayed on the path chosen.

Cautious not to loose his way, Ren looked down, suddenly confused, as the path seemed to disappear. The trees began to clear like a curtain drawn back, and the forest looked a little less like something from a dream and more like any wood you may find off any pasture.

Still though, there was a presence about that felt ancient, and alive.

It made the hairs on his arms stand on end as it called to him, and he followed out into the small clearing.

The land was hilly, with trees around this open patch, their branches reaching so high he could not see the tops.

This was it. His destination —but why? What was special about it?

Turning in a slow circle, Ren looked around at the landscape, seeing nothing but trees, hills and thick brush.

Stopping, he looked left and right, realizing then that all was not as it seemed.

There was a large fallen log across the way, but it was worn in the middle as though someone sat on it often. And the mess of leaves a foot from the log were actually arranged in a circle, not fallen at random, and in the middle of the leaves were the remains of a fire.

Looking quickly over his shoulder, he caught glimpses of sparkling things hanging from the trees. Like bits of glass tied with string and hung from the branches. They looked to him like things a child might hang that were meant to catch the sunlight had there been any.

There was a smell about this clearing as well, as though thousands of meals had been cooked very near where he stood, and even more fires burned to keep a body warm through the night. On the back of that sharp scent, was the soft lingering of dried lavender, and mint.

It smelled like… home.

Feeling somewhat alarmed to find himself in the middle of an encampment, but still just as curious, his keen eyes scanned the grounds, ready to notice any movement.

“Whoever is here.” He called out “Show yourself before your king,”

The screech of an unseen owl made him flinch, but no human voice replied.

“Show yourself!” He called again, his patience all but gone. “Before your king!”

“I know no King.” Came a calm reply.

He jumped, searching desperately for the one who spoke.

It was a woman’s voice. Clear and defiant.

The witch.

Cautious he spoke again. “Show yourself.” He said once more, aware of how desperately he needed to see her. He wanted a face to look at when he lay his accusations, he needed to see the woman who had somehow convinced him to come hunting in this strange place.

“And if I don’t?” She asked. Her voice was alive in his mind as though her words were his own thoughts.

“This kingdom, and all who live in it, belong to me.” He said, still turning slowly, trying to find her “I took it with force, I will do the same to you, if I must.”

“Why have you come?” She asked unbothered.

Not used to being questioned, but intrigued nonetheless, he settled back, flipping his hair from his eyes and replied. “I’ve heard things about this wood.” Which wasn’t a lie, though he chose not to share his true suspicions just yet. “And, as ruler of these lands, I’ve come to see for myself why people are afraid to venture here.”

“You’re lying.” She said amused. “That, is not why you’ve come.”

The witches voice danced from east to west, spinning him around until he stopped, noticing something ahead.

On first glance he saw no more than a rise in the earth, a natural slope running between the trees, but as he stepped forward and stared, he realized there was a dark opening in the center, too low for anyone to walk out of without crawling.

Wanting to make sense of it, Ren took cautious steps forward until he got close enough to discover that there was a way down into the dark.

Flat rocks created steps to a doorway, and around the black entry of the earth made cave, hung the same shining stones as the ones in the trees. These were mixed with a collection of feathers and twine, and the tiny bones of animals, like some sort of protection.

Forgetting that he was not alone, the king almost started down the steps, but was stopped by an intense heat and incredible light, glowing from behind him.

Turning quickly, instinctively reaching for his sword, Ren looked up to find a woman walking out of the dark forest and towards him, and with her came the brilliance of the sun, radiating out as though she were the light source itself.

Awed, he forgot his blade. Nearly blinded by the sight, he staggered closer, longing to see her clearly.

Like a man possessed as she neared, he felt a loss of words and sense. He knew only of holy magic, acts performed by the devoted men of the temple. This, was so much more.

Forgetting who he was, still overcome by the presence of a true witch, the king dropped to a knee, struck into silent submission by this vision.

“You say you are king —yet you kneel before me.” She teased, her voice fading from the echo in his head to a very real sound, present and strong.

Ren watched her glide past, and realized as she did that the light had faded.

She appeared as a mortal woman now, but the sun was out, casting a golden hue across forest floor, like color had been poured from a bucket, all around him.

This forest was not dead and grey, but teeming with life, it’s foliage a brilliant array of greens with the promise of warm, long days ahead —how had he not seen it before?

Still speechless, the king watched her walk to the steps that led down into the grass covered cave before turning to face him. “You claim to have heard rumors of this place, and that you’re here out of curiosity.” She looked down into his eyes, searching and easily finding. “But you’ve heard much more than that, haven’t you?”

He gave a nod and slowly stood.

Her eyes followed him up, her lips curling in a smile.

“Tell me what you’ve heard.” She commanded with a heavy voice as sweet as honey.

“That a witch lives here.” He said aloud before he could stop himself.

The little laugh she gave at his expense shot a quick surge of anger through his blood, but it was gone before he could demand her to ask for forgiveness.

“You should not believe everything you hear.” She said over her shoulder as she went down the steps. “But there may be some truth in it” She said with a softer laugh this time.

He watched until she was gone, to awestruck to move.

“Are you coming?” Her voice called and he sprang to attention quickly going to the steps, the cool dark below him a sharp contrast to the heat of the clearing.

Ren watched as she walked through the door and out of view, and he remembered that he’d come to ask something of her? His head felt lost in a fog as he tried to remember. Ask? No, to demand it. But what, he wondered as none of it seemed to matter anymore.

Feeling defenseless to her beckoning, the king made his slow decent into her world, and bent to pass through the door.

“Sit” She told him the moment he raised.

The king looked around quickly, completely confused and surprised by the size of the home and hesitantly did as told, rounding an old oak table that sat near the door and took a seat nearest her.

How had he not been able to see that the sloping hill and what he’d thought was no more than a dark cave, was in fact a good sized hovel with a raised cooking area where she worked at something now. It was a single room, but not cramped in the way one would imagine it. She’d filled the space with warmth and comfort, and as he took it in, he saw little things that made him wonder all the more who she was. A book open on a pedestal looked well read and very old. It stood in a corner full of things she’d collected from the forest, and wild flowers had been placed in old bowls and forgotten vases that scattered the room. He stared at the faceless doll sat on a chair next to the pedestal, her dress and body worn through as though she’d been well played with. Beside it on the chair was little toy knight missing an arm.

At the other end of the room was a large bed, home to a very large orange and white cat who slept curled at the foot of the mattress atop a blanket, as though nothing and no one mattered. He’d never had a pet, Ren realized….

There was a small fireplace, black with past fires and a cushioned chair sat under the high narrow window. The king wondered how she’d managed to create this on her own? Had she stolen the hovel? Taken it from some old hermit or perhaps another witch had been overpowered.

Pushing the thoughts aside, he focused now and watched the young woman. She had her back to him, and was busy grabbing jars from the shelves beside her small fire. She took pinches from a few of the canisters, adding the spice and herbs to the brew in the black pot.

Was he meant to just sit here? He wondered uncomfortably. She certainly seemed to think so. Being made to do anything other than what he wanted made the young king squirm. He lacked patience and insolence grated his nerves. And yet, while he wanted to demand her confession before he forgot again, the king realized that he was in fact content to sit and watch her work. The feeling was strange, but as he let his body relax a bit, he did seem to find the way she moved with efficiency to be calming.

Still, though, a witch… he sat in the home of a woman who should be under the rule of the Order. She clearly possessed magic beyond any he knew of, and he thought that even though he’d never cared enough to look into it, this seemed the sort of a thing a woman with knowledge of the dark arts would do. Lure a man into her home, stir up something to make him forget who he was, slit his throat and take from him what she could.

Perhaps this was where she’d created the poison that ruined his men too…

Yes, that was it. His purpose in coming. The only reason why he was here.

Remembering the anger he felt before he’d crossed the line into the forest, Ren sat up straight, cleared his throat and opened his mouth to speak, only to have the air practically knocked from his lungs when she turned and looked at him.

Outside, she was scarcely recognizable as anything less than a vision of unearthly power, but here, in this comfortable kitchen with dried herbs hanging from the rafters, and the smells from her concoction making his mouth water, the king felt as though he was seeing the real woman for the first time.

Her eyes were bright, hazel like his own but with flecks of green where his were gold and turned up like a cat, giving her the look of someone cunning and dangerous that normally he would have found bothersome, but there was a deep sense of wisdom in them that was far beyond her years and it intrigued him to no end.

Her wide face and high cheekbones held the soft glow of youth and he guessed her to be no more than twenty.

This would have been the most unexpected thing about her, as he’d assumed any witch evil enough to decimate an army would be a crone, but what truly surprised him was the way he felt when looking at her.

The anger harbored for this would be enemy, had calmed into the sort of curiosity he’d not felt for a woman before.

With a sigh of resignation (as ignoring his natural attraction to her seemed hopeless) the king scanned her slowly, drinking in the sight.

She wore nothing but a plain white kirtle, tied at the waist with a simple leather strip. Rags compared to the women who tried to draw his attention at court… still, she carried herself like a courtesan while wearing no shoes, or corsets, no rich silks wrapped her figure. There was in fact nothing to hide her body from him and he found it very easy to admire each long curve and solid line of feminine muscle.

He suppressed a smile, amused but delighted by her mess of chestnut hair, hanging free to the small of her back, his thoughts quickly turning darker as he imagined hair like that would create a curtain around them if she were to mount him. The soft tips would brush along his face and tease his own bare skin…

She stood, watching him analyze her and eventually smiled —a slow spreading smirk. She knew what he saw, and turned with that knowledge to continue stirring the pot hanging over the fire.

“What’s your name?” He asked softly, desperate to know.

Without answering, the young witch went to the pantry and rustled around out of view for a moment, before coming back with a cloth covered jar.

Glancing down at him as she passed, she replied, “Rey, is my name. ” And went to the cook fire, scooping in a small amount of the powder from the vessel.

“Do you live here alone? Rey.”

“I do.” She answered and reached for two cups, quickly placing them on the table.

He watched as she went back to the pot and ladled the sweet smelling liquid into a smaller pitcher before joining him.

“What is this?” He asked as she poured, noting that the hot drink had a faint blue tinge to it.

Raising her brow, she smiled and sat the pitcher down before picking up her own cup.

Holding it in two hands as she inhaled deeply and then drank. Her deep sigh made his blood run hot, and not out of anger.

Nervous for understandable reasons, but not wanting to seem a coward, he did the same and was stunned by the flavors.

Spice, and sweet mixed together to create a taste completely foreign to him.

“Good?” She asked over the ledge of her cup.

He nodded.

“I’ve been trying to replicate a taste I remember from my childhood” She said, eyes soft as she got lost in a distant memory. “Now, what’s your name?” She asked back in the present and took a seat, picking her legs up to sit with them crossed and tucked.

Rey tugged her dress, letting it fall down the center of the lotus shape revealing her long limbs to him.

Ren swallowed hard. Did she really mean toy with him? She was braver than he first thought.

Looking into her eyes, he considered the options and decided to answer in the only way that he could at the time. “My name is Kylo Ren. As your king, you may call me many things —but never that.”

She studied him closely. “Kylo Ren.” She said getting a feel for it, disregarding his command immediately.

Apparently she found it unsatisfactory and took another sip of her drink, letting silence fill the room. Rey seemed to be judging him with little regard for what the consequences of such behavior could be. In fact it did not seem to even occur to the girl to fear him.

“You’re tired of this?” She asked, able to sense that he grew restless. “Then ask me what you will and let us be done with it. Ask me what it is you really wish to know.”

Ren sat the drink down and took a deep breath, his thoughts distracted by her, but not so much that he couldn’t find the words.

“When we came, some of my men said they saw a woman standing on the crest of the hill, watching. Was that you?”

She gave a single nod. “It was”

“I then overheard some women talking. They seemed to think you could not only protect them from us, but that you could cause some harm to me, or at least my army. Can you?”

“Protect them?” She asked with a raised brow.

“Yes”

“Yes” She said easily.

'She does not lie', he thought for a moment then spoke “But the possibility still stands that you could bring harm to me, and so I ask you, no I demand it of you. Did you poison my men?” He felt certain she would confess.

“No”

Maybe he’d been too trusting. “How do I know thats true?”

“You don’t”

“Why don’t they get better?”

“Don’t you have a physician?”

“I do”

“Then I believe the answers you’re looking for with regards to health lie with him” She said and sat her cup down.

“He can not give me a single answer better than the last.” Ren said, his frustration showing “My men lay dying, and nothing seems to work.” His soft voice was raising, he could see how she leaned from it.

“And you’re so certain it was me.” She said almost sounding sorry for him.

“At first, no, but now, I think you’re capable of many things.”

She smiled “You flatter me, but I am not in the habit of harming innocent people… unless, you think perhaps those men are not so innocent.”

His dark eyes grew cold as he sat up straight, one large hand gripping the cup too tight. “You dare insult your king?”

“I did no such thing.” She said defensively “I simply asked if you think your men are innocent”

“You know damn well what you were implying.”

“Do I?” She asked and stood taking the cup from him.

He watched her put both on the shelf next to the fire.

“You’ve done nothing to convince me that it wasn’t you.” He said to her back.

“I am not on trial, king. I am a free woman, in my own home. I’ll do as I wish.”

Ren reached out and grabbed her arm yanking her to face him. His adrenaline spiked at the look of outrage on her face as she eyed his hold.

“You will do as I say. So long as I stand on this ground, it is sacred. You can not lie on holy ground”

She let go an awful laugh that mocked his words. “By who?” She asked her eyes alight with humor.

He winced at the verbal jabbing but pulled her closer. “I am your king, and you will answer to me one way or another."

“And I am Rey,” She said, chin up, eyes focused on his. “Your words here mean as little as the breeze, less than.” Her smile faded to a look of wisdom “My only advice is that you go, and look within, your questions will be answered when you are able to ask yourself what you have asked me.”

This managed to make him think, and then slowly loosen his grip on her, eventually letting go.

Rey rubbed her arm as she stepped away “I may not come from your world, and lack an education, but I’m not so foolish, I know why you’ve come” She said.

He could only glower at her, angry that she’d made him reconsider his actions “And why is that?” He asked.

“You wish to kill me for keeping you here in Niima. Someone or something has given you the idea that I am to blame for your dying army.”

“Are you?” He asked.

Rey crossed her arms. She looked at him as though she were trying to understand the way his mind might work. Was he actually a fool, or just skilled at acting like one. “ If I were, do you think I’d stand here, a foot away from your sword and admit to it.”

“You strike me as the sort who would do just that.”

“Well, I’m sorry to disappoint you king. I’ve been called many things, accused of more, but never once has anyone said that I have a death wish.”

He knew she was telling the truth. Nothing about her said that she would risk her own life just to be a contrarian, but, this went against the theory that had brought him here, and left him as hopeless as he’d been before he’d considered accusing her.

“And still you need more,” She said a little less angry this time.

“I need answers.” He replied.

“You will not find them here… but I tell you now,” She gave him a curious look, as though something had just become clear to her and whatever it was filled her with worry. “As a woman aware of many things, your desire for answers and a place to lay blame may have brought you- but it's no longer your reason for staying...” She said intrigued.

“And what is?” He asked gazing at her deeply pink lips while she spoke.

“I am” she sounded as surprised as he felt.

Her words were like a sharpened dagger through the heart. He shrank back, looking around the hovel, certain he must leave, but nearly spellbound by the woman, found himself unable to do so.

“I do not play games, king.” She said in earnest. “I do not pretend to know what it may be, but something keeps you in Niima, in Jakku. Just as I too am kept, longing to be free but knowing this place holds my fate, without knowing what that fate may be.”

She came cautiously closer.

“I see now... we are so very similar.” She was distracted by her own thoughts spoken aloud, and reached up to slide her hand along his cheek. “And yet, to see myself in you is a thing terrifying to me.” She said and pulled away.

Ren leaned forward, just a fraction of an inch, chasing her touch.

What was happening, he wondered as she went off trying to make herself busy, clearly shaken by whatever it was she sensed between them.

He’d come here to eliminate a threat, and now, he sat at her table, longing to be touched by her again, a woman he’d met only minutes ago.

She was right. There were no answers here, only more questions and the growing pressure of them was beginning to feel suffocating.

Standing, Kylo looked down on her for another moment before tuning to go.

“You take back your accusations then? You’d let me live?” She called out as he came to the spellbound doorway.

He glanced over his shoulder, hand bracing on the stone. He looked down at the impossible beauty of her, and it broke his heart to imagine her dead. “I would.” He said simply and ready to leave.

“Wait.” Rey ordered, her voice heavy and cold now.

His decision to let her be seemed to have created a situation he could not simply walk away from, and she sighed when she looked up at him. Like there was something that needed to be done but she had no true desire to do it.

As she crossed the room, Rey studied at him, looking for something specific it seemed.

The king braced himself. He leaned away, stiff and uneasy under the intensity of her glare. He almost smiled, as he found her bold behavior a little shocking. No one treated a king like this, but his title seemed to be the furthest thing from her mind.

Rey began whispering, her words were too quiet to hear, but he suspected they were not said in a language he could understand.

The warm light of the room faded as though darkness were seeping in through the corners of the ceiling and the very foundation creaked beneath them. His eyes darted from wall to wall as he felt a strange sensation of fear spread up his back.

Without warning, the witch reached up, pressing her fingers into his temples until they dug in, and he grabbed her arms to free himself, but he could not pull away.

He shut his eyes tight, realizing the sound he heard was his own scream. On and on the pain of having her pry open his mind became unbearable, until the air was knocked from his chest, and he realized he’d fallen.

Sitting up, feeling dizzy and disoriented as he rubbed the throbbing in his mind, the king sat for a moment to collect himself before standing.

He was at the edge of the forest.

The sky had grown dark and his men were waiting in a line just beyond the crooked trees.

Ren blinked hard, his vision blurred for a moment before it cleared. This made no sense he thought, his mind reeling as he looked this way and that, as if she should be standing there, but he was in fact alone in spite of standing in her kitchen only seconds ago. The ache in his head would not dull...

“Hux!” He called, his voice horse as he walked out and onto the grass of the pasture. The man came running up before Ren could call for him again.

“My lord, we were just about to come when one of the knights spotted you.” He said calmly, unaware of the strange happenings inside the wood.

Try as he might, Ren could not remember anything past her burning grip. But looking at his men, and his chancellor he knew he could not share this, instead, he spoke a few final words.

“No one, is to go into this forest again, on pain of death. There is something there that will be dealt with… once I’m certain of how.”

#reylo au #medieval reylo #reylo ao3 #reylo fanfic #kylo redemption #Kylo Ren is king #rey is a witch #the force is magic #slowburn #reylo smut #reylo romance #reylo medieval action #reylo angst #reylo fiction #rey of jakku

[reyloyal]

So I’ve been thinking about doing this for a while. Pretty sure the release of Adams’s new movie inspired me to finally go ahead and do it. As someone who has loved medieval movies, shows and books basically since childhood, I always imagined Kylo and Rey in my two favorite settings. The Regency era, and Medieval. The fist time I saw a gif of that man on a horse I 1) screamed and died and then 2) laughed because it’s about damn time! How long ago did I write this (it’s been like 2 years but damn, someone should have been put his fine ass on a stallion! But I digress. Please, enjoy the story! It's impossibly long. Like obnoxiously epically so. For anyone looking to pass the weekend it can be found here on AO3. And of course, comments are always welcome. Now, let your eyes gaze upon the beauty that is Long hair Adam Driver who until now I had to imagine...

The king in the north, south, east and the damn west. No spoilers, I’ll only say I’m thankful for the images this film has given us.

This classic never gets old. I could stare at his unearthly beauty until my eyes go dry, but I am thankful for this…

And of course my inspiration for the rightfully cautious and powerful Witch Rey who would prefer it if everyone could stay away from her woods. Particularly the king who thinks he knows so much….

#Reylo #reylo ao3 #reylo au #kylo rey #medieval Reylo #kylo ren/ rey #rey/ben solo #rey/kylo ren #magicspells #the force is magic #kylo is king #slow burn #rey is a witch #reylo angst #reylo smut #reylo fiction #reylo love