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reyloyal · 3 years ago

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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

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