Leon Belmont

Castlevania Blog

[beloved-belmont]

Do You Know Whose Face You Wear? Pt. 10

-- Part 10

Angel was quickly becoming an important part of Dracula's night. He would often spend his free time with Angel and began to allow Angel to accompany him outside of his room.

Leon was nervous to venture out of the room, but hesitantly followed Dracula around the castle.

"You shouldn't be kept inside, let alone in one room, all day." Dracula led the curious angel to the gardens.

Leon enjoyed the feel of the night air, but even more so, the sight of the night sky. He missed the outdoors.

The gardens were lovely too. The white flora reflected the moonlight in a way that made them appear to glow. Leon had always been fond of white lilies, so he was happy to find a patch of them amongst the flowers.

Dracula was pleased to see Angel taking a liking to the lilies, he looked at home among the flowers. Dracula couldn't help but admire Leon's wings. He was relieved that Leon hadn't attempted to take off when brought outside. He didn't think he could actually bring himself to maim the angel if he did try to flee.

When it came time to go inside, Leon couldn't stop looking back at the garden.

"Don't worry, we will come back soon." The Count reassured as he guided Angel back inside.

True to his word, Dracula made sure he got plenty of time in the gardens.

Angel still didn't speak, but he was less nervous around the Count. His newfound confidence only furthered his similarities to Leon.

In addition, the Count made another discovery, both Leon and Angel shared a love for honey cakes. When Dracula had first brought a honey cake along with Leon's meal the angel had immediately focused on it, before forcing himself to eat the rest of the meal first.

The look of pure bliss on the angel's face as he took the first bite made Dracula smile.

"Do you like honey cake?" The Count asked, amused.

Leon nodded, face tinted pink in embarrassment from how eager he had been to eat the sweet.

Dracula made sure to bring honey cakes along with Leon's meals often after that. It reminded Leon of when Mathias would bring him honey cakes.

Leon began to wonder if Mathias would have been like the Count if he was still around, if he would have lived in a similar castle.

Leon peeked over at the Count, who was working at his desk, from a lounge in the vampire's study. He felt... safe. He focused on the sound of the quill writing on parchment as he closed his eyes.

Dracula smiled when he noticed that Angel had dozed off. He finished writing his letter before standing from his desk and walking over where the angel slept and sitting nearby. Dracula noticed the angel's wings twitching slightly in his sleep.

Is he dreaming of flying?

Dracula gently brushed Angel's wing and was surprised when the angel seemed to lean into the touch. He figured Angel was likely touch starved. The angel had and still shows clear signs of abuse. Dracula continued to softly caress Angel's wing for awhile longer before carrying him to his room.

--

It was a little over a year when Dracula had came to Angel's room to feed as usual and when Leon presented his wrist, Dracula simply held it. Leon looked at him, confused.

"Angel, may I fed from your neck?" The Count asked. Why Dracula was so concerned with the comfort of the angel, he did not know. Usually he would simply take, but he wanted Angel to give this to him.

"You are allowed to refused." Dracula clarified, "This is not a demand."

The angel was visually nervous to bare his neck, understandably so, but despite this he presented his neck to the Count.

"It is alright, I'll drink from your wrist." Dracula smiled when Angel looked at him confused, "You are shaking, my dear. Leon then realized that he was shaking. He looked to the Count, apologetic and slightly panicked.

"It is alright." Dracula reassured, as Angel presented his neck with more confidence. The Count smiled, biting Angel's wrist and drinking deeply. Angel watched the count drink, slightly nervous at not fulfilling the Count's request.

--

The first time Dracula fed from Leon's neck was unexpected. The count hadn't asked Angel again after the last time, so when Angel had finished eating and presented his neck, the count was surprised.

"Are you sure, my dear?" Dracula asked, searching Angel's face for any sign of discomfort.

Angel nodded, presenting his neck once again.

Dracula gently cupped Angel's cheek as he bit into his neck.

Angel closed his eyes as Dracula drank, letting out a barely audible hum when the count moved his hand up to caress his hair.

Dracula paused at the noise. Angel made a noise.

The count quickly continued as to not make Angel believe he had done something wrong.

He continued to caress Angel's hair as he drank, pleased when Leon leaned into the touch.

"Thank you for the meal, my dear." The count thanked as he retracted from Leon's neck.

Leon felt his face heat up and he opened his eyes with a nod in acknowledgement. Leon couldn't help, but be fond of the Count. Aside from how kind he was in comparison to the others, he reminded Leon too much of Mathias. So when the Count continued to be affectionate towards him, he leaned into it.

After that night Dracula would regularly feed from Leon's neck, each time trying to coax noises from the angel. He wanted to hear his voice and assure him it was safe to talk here. He would stroke Leon's hair which Leon would occasionally respond to with a hum. As time went on he got bolder, licking at the bite mark, pulling Leon even closer, and even placing a soft kiss to the mark when he was done drinking.

One night he had pulled Leon into his lap, and once he made sure the angel didn't seem uncomfortable, he continued. Leon rested his head on Dracula's shoulder, getting drowsy as the Count drank. As he began to slip into sleep, a rumble built in Leon's chest and Leon began to purr. Both Dracula and Leon froze at the noise, Leon tensing up, realizing that not only had he made noise, but a noise he has never made before.

Dracula continued to stroke Leon's hair, "I was unaware angels could purr."

Leon's face went red, he was also unaware he could make that noise.

"Relax Angel, it's alright," Dracula reassured, "I quite like the noises you make."

Leon quickly hid his face as he felt it grow hotter.

[starvion]

Leon being annoyed that Mathias got even taller after he turned and Dracula loves how much easier this makes manhandling Leon.

Leon also being flustered by the increased height difference.

[serpentlily11]

2018 vs 2026

Redraw of an old piece from way back 2018! It's so old, I'm still using my old signature. It feels good to see the progress, no matter how slow. Eight years on and I'm still drawing my OTP~ I can't ever get tired of MathiasxLeon

[designingxdaffodils]

@sparklytimebun Needed Leon Belmont in the outfit from their commercial featuring the idol SONIM, and I gotta say he works it rather well. Thank you so much for the commission!!

----

Commissions | Ko-fi | Twitch | Bluesky

[beloved-belmont]

Do You Know Whose Face You Wear? Pt. 9

It hadn't even been a full year since the events at Walter's castle when Mathias had heard the news of Leon Belmont's death.

Grief and anger washed over him. Yet again God had ripped away another person he cherished.

He had visited Leon's grave one night with a bouquet of lilies. "My dear Leon, I was hoping we'd be seeing each other again under better circumstances." He placed the lilies next to the grave.

"I suppose this means I'm off the hook in terms of being hunted by you." He attempted to joke, ignoring the lump forming in his throat.

All his anger had washed away and an overwhelming sadness took him. He wanted to claw through the cold earth and pull Leon out, to cradle him in his arms and refuse to let go.

I should have turned him.

Mathias knew that if he had forcibly turned Leon, the man would have spent eternity hating him.

But he'd still be here to hate me.

Leon had been the last tether Mathias had to his previous life and now he was gone. He decided then that his identity as Mathias would join Leon in death.

"If you are no more, than I am no more my friend." Dracula smiled sadly. "Rest well, Leon."

--

It was obvious that Leon's passing had made Dracula crueler. Along with his new name, he had less patience.

When he eventually began his campaign for power, it had been bloody and many well established vampires had to be discarded when they refused to yield. Was he more cruel in his execution than necessary? Yes, but it was important to establish early on that he wouldn't tolerate disobedience.

With Death by his side, he had managed to quickly put the other creatures of the night in line.

It wasn't long before he became well known and drew the attention of humans and fellow vampires alike.

--

"Vampiric activity has increased over in the North."

Leon was used to listening to the caretakers chat, but vampires wasn't a usual topic.

"At least it is far away from here."

"Apparently a new dark lord has arisen stirring up more activity."

A new dark lord? Mathias is the one with the stone...

"Another one?"

"Well, the infighting is constant. I won't be surprised if this one gets replaced like the previous ones.

Replaced? Mathias was replaced?

Leon felt his heart sink.

No. Mathias is too clever. He isn't-

Leon could feel tears streaming down his cheeks as his breathing turned panicked.

The only way Mathias would part with the stone would be through death.

A pained noise left Leon, startling the gossiping men.

How long had Mathias been dead? How many dark lords has there been?

He's not. He's not.

Despite the anger and betrayal Mathias had made Leon feel, Leon had managed to find some comfort in the fact that Mathias was out there somewhere. Now, he truly felt alone.

[lamentingmyinnocence]

"shut up!!"

[beloved-belmont]

Do You Know Whose Face You Wear? Pt. 8

-- Part 8

Leon continued to cocoon on top of the bed, but slowly began to explore the room, getting used to moving around again.

Leon finally had enough courage, and the urge to use the chamber pot, to peek into the attached room. Inside was a tub, a chair with a hole in it, and a bowl attached to the wall. He had never seen a room like this before.

He looked into the tub, there was a hole at the bottom. How does the water stay in? Leon turned his attention to the metal rod near the edge of the tub, it was hollow and accompanied by two objects that looked like wheels on either side. He was so curious that he didn't notice the room's door being opened.

Dracula had entered the angel's room with a tray of dinner of some roasted meat and carrots, surprised to not find him in his usual spot. He placed the tray down noticing the washroom door open.

He could see Leon messing with the bathtub's handles, scrambling back when water came out.

Amused, Dracula made his presence known, "Don't be frightened."

Leon tensed at the voice, eyes wide.

"Here, let me show you."

As the Count explained how to use all of the features in the washroom, Leon watched with fascination. He made a mental note to try and take a bath later.

Leon followed Dracula out of the washroom, now smelling the roasted meat. He waited for the Count's permission before trying the food. It was delicious and for the first time in a long time he was able to enjoy a meal without fearing a hidden punishment.

After Dracula had departed, Leon went back into the washroom and followed the Count's instructions, filling the tub with warm water.

Leon let out a soft sound of content as he sank into the tub. It was heaven compared to the ice cold buckets of water he had grown accustomed to. He felt brand new as he stepped out and dried himself off, flapping his wings to air them out.

After he had dried off, he climbed back onto the bed.

Leon turned his attention back to the blankets. Eating the food and bathing was ok, so using the blankets should be ok. The Count seemed to mean what he said, unlike the previous caretakers. Leon looked back to the door before moving over to pull back the covers and climb under them, wrapping himself with his wings. He felt more secure further hidden away from the world. For the first time in centuries Leon went to sleep clean, comfortable, and with a full belly.

--

The first time Dracula entered the room to find Leon under the covers, a smile crossed his face. He walked over, slightly lifting the covers to see the angel, who was cocooned under the blanket. After a few seconds, Leon peeked out from the safety of his cocoon. Dracula felt a warm feeling bloom in his chest at the sight. How cute.

"Did you sleep well?" Dracula asked.

Leon nodded before opening his wings and sitting up.

Dracula was pleased by how comfortable the angel was becoming with his new environment. He was hoping that they would eventually be comfortable enough to speak, if they were able to.

"I still haven't gotten a name from you, at this rate I'll just have to name you." Dracula mused.

Leon looked at him, still silent.

"No protests?" Dracula smiled, somewhat disappointed, "I guess for now I'll just call you Angel. Not that creative, I know, but maybe that'll urge you to tell me your real one."

Leon was just happy to not be referred to as Chalice.

--

Even as a routine was established and the months went by, Leon couldn't fully relax. He half expected a caretaker to come in and tell him he failed before dragging him back to the cellar to- He didn't want to think about that.

Dracula had picked up on this. It was to be expected, the church had obviously left some lasting damage. The irony that the dark lord was kinder than the church almost made him laugh. He wondered what Angel was like before the church's influence. Was he more outgoing? More like Leon?

Dracula had given up on avoiding thoughts of Leon. Having Angel in his custody made it impossible.

Dracula had made it a habit to visit Angel even when he didn't intend to feed. Leon was cautious at first, but began to adjust to Dracula's presence.

Dracula would read in a chair by the fireplace. It reminded Leon of Mathias.

Leon thought back to the nights he would spend sitting with Mathias by the fireplace, content to exist in silence next to the man has he read. Occasionally Mathias would make a noise as if contemplating something. Leon had noticed the Count doing the same.

Leon found himself thinking of Mathias more often, of a time before he had wings. Leon smiled softly, continuing to preen and brush his wings as he reminisced on his past.

The Count would occasionally look up from his book to look at Angel and when he looked up to find Angel smiling to himself he was taken aback. He looks so much like Leon.

Dracula had thought he would never see a smile like that again, and he wanted to hear Angel laugh.

[beloved-belmont]

Do You Know Whose Face You Wear? Pt. 7

-- Part 7

The archbishop had visited Leon in his new residence shortly after he arrived.

"I heard your trip here was eventful," The archbishop looked over to Leon, who glared in response. "Eric had wanted to be your caretaker, but I know you will need a firmer hand to get adjusted to your new role. We can't have you trying to escape every other day."

"Bishop Paul here will be taking care of you from now on." The archbishop motioned to Max, who was looking at Leon in disapproval.

"You will come to accept your new role in the church as an object to be drawn from, a chalice." The archbishop turned to leave the room.

"I'm Leon Belmont, not some-" Leon was cut off as Paul pushed his face into the floor.

Leon gritted his teeth, glaring up at the men.

"You're Chalice from now on. Forget whatever life you had before," The archbishop looked back unamused. "We'll be in touch, Bishop Paul." The archbishop left, leaving Leon and Paul alone.

"As stated prior, your life as Leon Belmont is over. Your death was announced earlier this week and your funeral service will be held tomorrow."

Leon was enraged, "You can't-" He was pressed into the ground harder.

"Be quiet. You should consider yourself lucky that the church is giving you a service after you left the stunt you pulled. Abandoning your duties for a woman, pathetic." Paul turned towards the door, "I recommend you behave yourself, Chalice. Make things easier on yourself."

--

Bishop Paul made Leon's life hell.

He was assigned a team of caretakers who, if he gave them trouble, would inform Paul. Paul would beat Leon to near unconsciousness if he refused to behave.

Leon continued to fight despite the beatings and other punishments. However, when Leon had managed to escape the cellar, almost making it outside, Bishop Paul had enough.

"Rip out his wings, they'll grow back and I've heard the process is painful. Maybe he'll learn his lesson."

Leon thrashed as he heard the punishment, "Damn you!" His wings knocked over a few of the approaching men before someone managed to get a good grip on his wing and a hot pain shot through his body. His wings were hacked and torn away. He was left in a pool of blood until his back healed and he had to brace for the next pair to erupt.

The removal of his wings became the default punishment for any escape attempt. Leon tried to escape multiple times despite this, but his attempts grew fewer and fewer.

Leon had blood drawn from him at least once a week. It was packaged into glass vials and shipped off to who knows where. Leon knew that at least a few of those vials ended up with Paul. Apparently some of the higher ups believed that drinking it brought good health.

Leon was no longer allowed to refer to himself by name or respond to his name. The tested him on this frequently until he stopped responding.

He was rarely fed, and when he was it was a watery gruel, leaving him hungry and weak.

Soon doing as he was told became not enough.

He would be offered food other than gruel and then punished if he accepted.

He would be spoken to and punished if he responded.

During the winter, when Leon caused trouble, they would take his clothes, forcing him to wrap his wings around himself to maintain some sense of warmth in the cold cellar.

He quickly began to associate the inside of his wings with safety. Safety from the cold and the cruel hands of his caretakers.

Leon looked over to the small barred cellar window that was almost entirely buried in snow. A shiver went through his body, he was looking forward to Summer. He thought back to the winter nights he would huddled by the campfire with Mathias. He wondered what Mathias was doing now. How was he spending his eternity? Was he reading books by the fireplace? Leon tried to sink further into the safety of his wings, imagining that he was resting by Mathias's fireplace as he drifted off to sleep.

[beloved-belmont]

Do You Know Whose Face You Wear? Pt. 6

Leon woke up restrained, this time with metal and to the bed. He was too tired to even attempt to move.

"Why am I restrained?" He asked flatly.

Eric, who was sitting next to the bed, looked up from his book, "So you don't hurt yourself."

"What would be the point now? They'd just grow back." Leon turned his head to look at Eric.

Eric closed the book, "We can't risk you running off."

Leon glared, "You have no right to keep me here. I am no longer a danger to myself."

"You belong here, Leon. You belong with the church." Eric set the book on the nightstand.

"I left the church. I hunt the night now." Leon retorted.

"You left the church to save Sara. You hunt monsters to ease your grief." Eric placed a hand on Leon's wing.

"I hunt them so no one has to go through what I went through." Leon snapped, jerking away.

"Your place is here. " Eric insisted, "You have been given a gift. You are a gift."

"Where is Morning Star?" Leon asked, ignoring the last comment.

Eric sighed, "Safe, stored with my belongings."

Lance entered then, handing a white silk garment to Eric. Eric thanked him before adding on, "The archbishop plans to visit the pope with a vial of your blood."

"Blood, has the pope become a vampire? What does he need that for?" Leon asked as he watched Lance place vials on a nearby tables with unease.

"Your blood heals not only you." Eric displayed his hand Leon had slashed, now unmarked.

Leon looked at the hand shocked before the unease he felt grew stronger.

"No. I refuse. You spent all this effort to stop me from hurting my self, but now you want to cut me open and steal my blood?"

"It isn't stealing," the archbishop stated from the doorway, having just arrived.

Leon's eyes narrowed, "I said no and you are planning to take it, how is that not stealing."

"You are a gift from God, to be used for good, and the church will use you." The archbishop moved to the bedside.

Leon pulled against the restraints with a growl, "Like hell-"

"If you don't behave, I'll have your precious whip destroyed." The archbishop snapped.

"This isn't right. You know this isn't right." He turned to Eric.

Lance had unsheathed the knife moving it to Leon's arm.

Leon jerked, attempting to move away, wincing as the knife sliced him. Leon let out a hiss of pain as Lance pressed the vial to the gash.

Lance filled multiple vials before he pressed a cloth to the cut.

That night, Leon remained awake, staring at the ceiling and wondering where everything went wrong.

Father Eric's approval of the situation cut deep. Yet again he had placed his trust in someone who betrayed him.

Can I truly not trust anyone? Leon curled in on himself tighter. Leon's mind wandered to Mathias, he felt a lump form in his throat as he tried to suppress the tears.

I should have never left for that campaign. Maybe if I had stayed by his side he wouldn't have-

Leon let out a choked sob, turning his face into the pillow. He just wanted to go home.

--

The first time Eric had laid eyes on Leon, he knew he was special. So when he saw the white wings sprouted from Leon's back he was ecstatic, and when Leon had chopped them off he was outraged and heartbroken. Though nothing compared to how he felt when Leon's wings returned and his gift of healing was uncovered. Leon would forever be tied to the church. Where he belonged. He pulled out the feather from Leon's first set of wings, smiling, as he looked back to where Leon lay on the bed.

The following days had involved Leon fighting him, ignoring him, even trying to appeal to his empathy. But Eric remained firm, he knew this was for the best. Leon continued to ask to see Morning Star, the only item that had brought him any sense of comfort after Walter's castle. Eric relented allowing him to see it once, before he hid it away again. Leon's attachment to the weapon was extremely useful when he was particularly stubborn.

A letter from the archbishop had recently arrived, informing Eric that the pope had instructed Leon to be moved to a new location. Perfect.

The church's original plan for Leon had been to move him to the Vatican and to use him as evidence of God's grace. However, when it was revealed that Leon's blood had healing properties, it was agreed that his existence should remain a secret and that he would be moved to a discrete location.

For now, until arrangements were made, Leon would remain here. Eric would do his best to help Leon adjust to the situation in the meantime.

--

Leon was getting tired of people touching him without permission. He felt like a doll and it didn't help that he wasn't allowed to move around much. He was restrained most of the time and when he wasn't, Lance and Eric were nearby. It was suffocating. Eric would brush his wings, but if he behaved, he was allowed to have Morning Star nearby. So he would extend his wings, which he had started keeping tightly tucked against his back.

One day after Father Eric had finished brushing Leon's wings, he had brought out the garment of thin white silk unfolding it to reveal a long silk shirt with the upper back removed.

"This shirt is will fit around your wings better." Eric turned to Leon who looked up at him from the bed, unimpressed.

"I'll prepare a bath for you," Eric sat the garment down turning to prepare the tub behind the privacy screen.

Leon got undressed after Eric had finished setting up the bath, placing his clothes on the bed and walking behind the screen. The bath was a nice break from the watchful eyes, even if Lance was standing guard by the door on the other side of the screen. He sat in the bath until the water turned cold. After he had dried of with the towel he went to the bed to grab his clothes. The shirt was comfortable, but quite long, almost like a nightgown. He turned to grab his pants, only to notice his old clothes were gone.

"Where are my pants?" Leon asked, looking on the other side of the bed to see if they had fallen.

"The gown is long enough, it is more suited for the painting."

"Gown? I thought this was a shirt!?" Leon's head whipped towards Eric, "What do you mean painting?"

"You are going to be painted before you are moved to your new home."

"Why is this necessary? Especially in this?" Leon really didn't want to remain in what seemed to be a night gown around others or painted like this.

"Yes, It fits the image," Eric explained as Lance approached Leon with restraints.

Leon backed up as Lance reached for him. Eric helped Lance restrain Leon before taking him into another room that had been set up for painting.

Leon had been situated onto his side, arms resting on a pedestal and his head resting alongside them. Despite the protests they had positioned the gown to rest higher on his thighs before surrounding him with white lilies.

This is so embarrassing. Leon had his portrait painted before, but this was completely different.

The painting took a few days, but Eric felt the results were worth it. It was a lovely painting.

They departed to a cathedral in a small town near the border the next day.

[yourlocalobscurereference]

I've always thought Walter's soul could still whisper things to the master of the crimson stone

[beloved-belmont]

Do You Know Whose Face You Wear? Pt. 5

-- Part 5

"This is ridiculous," Leon muttered as he glared at the wall.

"I know you aren't happy, but I think this is for the best," Eric placed some flowers in the vase by the window.

"I'm a grown man, I can determine what's best for myself."

Eric sat in the chair next to the bed, "I don't think most people would consider self-mutilation a choice made by someone who can determine what is best for themselves."

Leon remained silent, opting to continue and glare at the wall.

When Eric left the room, Leon turned to look at the door. He had been secretly working at removing the restraints around his wrist and had managed to get them loose. He wasted no time shuffling off the bed and towards Lance's belongings. He managed to unsheathe a knife and use it to cut his other restraints. He was about to try the window when he remembered that Eric had Morning Star.

Leon looked at the door, trying to fight all of them was risky and even if he won, they'd likely chase after him.

He looked back at the knife. They will have no reason to keep me if I don't have wings.

Leon grabbed the knife and bundled up some of the bedding to bite down on, mentally bracing himself. He attempted to control his breathing as he reached back to grab the base of one wing. He dug into the base as if trying to dig the wing out as he cut through. Since he couldn't clearly see what he was doing and had less than ideal tools, it was a messy cut. It took everything in his power not to pass out as he separated the wing from his back. Tears rolled down his cheeks as his bite on the fabric remained firm as he finished the first wing. He had to work quick before the blood loss got to him. After the second wing he let the knife fall to the bed. Leon and the sheets were covered in blood. He was panting heavily now, reaching for the bedsheets to tend to the bleeding when Eric walked in. He quickly grabbed the knife pointing it at Eric.

Eric looked mortified, "Leon, what have you done?" He walked towards Leon who was beginning to feel the effects of blood loss. Eric reached out for Leon, who slashed at him, cutting his palm.

"Stay back!" Leon warned, knife in his hand growing unsteady.

Eric called for Lance as Leon collapsed onto the bed, dropping the knife.

Eric moved the knife away from Leon, quickly rushing to his side.

Leon tried to move away, unsuccessful, as Eric franticly pressed the sheets into his back to slow the bleeding.

Leon could feel his consciousness slipping and as he closed his eyes he could hear the others rush in.

--

After Leon had been tended to, Eric had turned his attention to Leon's mutilated wings. Oh, Leon...

He proceeded to wrap the wings in a clean sheet. Eric went to give the wings one last stroke, causing a lose feather to fall into the floor, somehow completely untouched by blood. He picked the feather up, smiling sadly.

"Lance, I'm going to go inform the archbishop, watch over him for me please." Eric carried the wrapped wings to where the archbishop and bishop were talking.

"Where did we go wrong with that boy?" The bishop looked sadly at the wings.

"I feel like Cronqvist had some part in this." Eric interjected, setting the wings down on the table nearby.

"I agree, unfortunately we didn't realize what a bad influence he was." The archbishop lifted the sheet to look at the bloody feathers, "What a waste. We lost our best strategist, best knight, and an angel all in such a short amount of time."

"He still belongs with the church, wings or not," Eric insisted.

The archbishop looked at Eric, "We shall discuss what to do with Belmont later. For now, rest. It has been a long day."

--

Leon woke up feeling terrible, not that he expected to feel good. He sat up, thankfully not restrained. He slipped out of the bed, walking over to a mirror to look at his back.

They were gone. No wings, no wounds, no scars. It was as if he had dreamed it all. A wave of relief washed over him. He walked over to the door only to find it locked. Of course it's locked.

Leon turned back to the room. I doubt they left Morning Star in here.

Leon walked over to the window, looking out. It was a sunny morning, but still a bit chilly. He shifted as the cold stone seeping the warmth from his feet became more noticeable. He walked back over to the bed, sitting down to relieve his feet from the cold floor. He laid back, watching the door and waiting for someone to come in.

Leon began to feel progressively worse. His fever had returned and he had wrapped himself in the covers. He was tired of waiting. Carrying the covers with him, he approached the door.

"Hello? Let me out!" Leon called out, attempting to open the door again despite knowing it was locked. He called out a few more times before he began to pace around the room. The fever was getting worse, but he stopped pacing when he began to feel pain in his back. No. There's no way.

As Leon was beginning to panic, the door opened.

The archbishop walked in, followed by the bishop and Eric.

"Leon?" Eric looked worried, but the archbishop stopped him from going to Leon when he fell to the floor.

"Leon Belmont, the church has always been lenient with you. However, this time you have done something that can not be ignored and look at you now. God is punishing you for rejecting his gift." The archbishop looked down at Leon's shaking form in displeasure.

Leon's breathing grew heavier and his vision blurred as the pain increased. His back hurt so much, just like the night he grew his wings, if not more. Leon suddenly let out a cry, blood erupting from his shoulder blades as a new pair of wings emerged from his back.

The bishop had stepped back as blood splashed on his face and into his injured eye. He wiped at the blood as the entire room looked upon Leon with awe. When he looked at Leon panting on the ground, seeing perfectly from both eyes, he realized the truth.

"This isn't God punishing you, this is his demonstration!" The archbishop proclaimed as Leon barely remained conscious on the floor. "You are reborn with new purpose, proof of his benevolence."

Eric looked to the archbishop and then he too realized. He then looked down at his cut hand before reaching out and placing it against the floor where Leon's blood had splattered. When he pulled his hand back up, the cut was gone, "Oh, Leon." He smiled, "You are an angel."

Leon was trying his best not to pass out from the pain. No no no no. They grew back. Why? He felt tears of frustration join the ones of pain welling up in his eyes, unaware of the revelation the room just had.

"Get him cleaned up and I'll write the pope," The archbishop then hurried out the door, eager to send a letter.

Leon attempted to move away as Lance hauled him up, "Don't touch me."

His demand was ignored and he was taken back to a room in the dorter where Eric quickly filled a tub with water.

Leon's strength had completely depleted and he went limp as he was placed in the tub. The water quickly turned pink as the blood from his wings and body was rinsed off. A separate tub was prepared in the meantime, filled with warm water. Leon was placed in the warm tub after the blood and soap had been mostly removed. The water felt nice against his sore body. Eric was gently cleaning his wings further when exhaustion over took him and he fell asleep.

[coyoteralyn]

Long life and eternal loneliness

[beloved-belmont]

Do You Know Whose Face You Wear? Pt. 4

Dracula sighed after closing the door. Their resemblance is uncanny. Dracula walked down the corridor, unable to stop his mind from wandering to memories of his friend. Their personalities however couldn't be more different. Leon would have likely lunged at him on sight and then fought him tooth and nail all the way back to the castle. He smiled at the thought, at how lively Leon had been. He reminded Dracula of sunlight, his golden hair, his positive nature, and his smile. Oh that smile, especially the one he would have after laughing. Mathias had loved hearing Leon's laugh.

Dracula stopped in the middle of the hall. No. No good will come from bringing up the past. He continued walking, turning his attention back to the present. He made note to inform the servants to bring food and drink to the angel. He wanted keep them healthy, they would need nutrients to produce more blood. The blood. It had tasted divine from the source, like sunlight and honey. He imagined taking a proper bite from the creature's throat and his mind flashed to his lips on Leon's neck. Dracula immediately redirected his thoughts, he needed a drink.

--

Dracula had wanted to give the angel space to allow them to get used to their surroundings. However, a servant came to him a few days later to inform him that the angel hadn't been eating. Dracula sighed, closing the book he had been reading as he instructed the servant to bring him a simple variety of fruits. He had a feeling the angel wouldn't eat much, with how cautious they appeared, however he hadn't expected a hunger strike. Dracula made his way to the angel's room to personally ensure he ate. He lightly knocked before entering the room, slightly amused when he saw the cocoon.

"Still hiding away, I see." Dracula set the food down, taking a seat in a chair by the bed. Leon peeked out through a sliver in the wings. He slowly presented his wrist, expecting the Count to feed. Dracula raised an eyebrow before he realized the intent and chuckled.

"Straight to business, good, but first you must eat." Dracula motioned to the fruit, watching confusion and unease cross Leon's face.

"Surely the church fed you?" Dracula picked up a grape, offering it to the winged man.

This was a trap. This had to be a trap. The last time Leon had fruit was... he couldn't even remember. He knew better than to accept what he was not permitted.

Dracula frowned at the unease, retracting the grape. "I don't know what the church's rules for you were, but from now on you will do as I say. Eat." Dracula looked at the angel, who still looked skeptical as he held out the grape again. "I would rather not have to force feed you." Dracula added as Leon eyed the grape.

Perhaps it was ok and he was actually allowed to take the grape. No, it was a trick- Leon was pulled out of his thoughts as Dracula pressed the grape to his lips.

"Eat," the count insisted, using a bit of magic to coax the fruit into the angel's mouth.

Leon hesitantly held the grape in his mouth. Dracula retracted his hand, noting how the angel flinched as if he expected to be hit when Dracula raised his hand to present another grape. Did they punish him after he did as he was told? How cruel that would be, to keep him on edge, constantly second guessing every interaction and demand, always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

"Chew the first one," Dracula instructed.

Leon chewed the first grape, too stressed to enjoy the first taste of something other than gruel in centuries.

"Good," The count commented as Leon swallowed. He fed Leon the other grape before bringing the tray closer, "Now eat the rest of these."

Leon hesitantly ate the fruit, frequently looking at the Count for any signs of displeasure.

Dracula watched Leon until the plate was clear, "Good, now since I have a feeling you haven't moved from that spot at all, I will clearly state that you are allowed to move around this room and the connected washroom.

Leon still looked skeptical, but nodded.

Dracula didn't want to startle the angel too much by feeding from his neck immediately, and held out his hand prompting Leon to place his wrist in the count's hand. Leon complied, not resisting when Dracula brought the wrist to his mouth and biting into the soft flesh. The Count drank more this time, taking the time to enjoy the meal.

When Dracula stopped drinking, Leon had been starting to feel light-headed from blood loss. He wanted to sleep and once his wrist was released he started to pull his wings around himself, only to be stopped by the Count.

"You may use the blankets if you wish." He assured, removing his hand from Leon's wing. Leon eyed the blankets, but remained still.

"I shall leave you now." Dracula exited the room and Leon drifted off to sleep.

[undefeatablesin]

Be careful of the curse that falls on young lovers, starts so soft and sweet and turns them to hunters

[arosvolturi]

Thinking about bloody kisses tonight… 

[beloved-belmont]

Do You Know Whose Face You Wear? Pt. 3

The story will alter between the story's current events and the events leading up to it to help explain some of Leon's behaviors and out of character actions.

-- Part Three

It had not even been a week since the events at Walter's Castle when Leon Belmont began to feel sick. It started as a slight discomfort in his back, which he assumed was just the soreness that came with extensive movement. However a fever soon followed and he found himself struggling to travel home.

Leon was nearing the outskirts of a town when a man of the church came across him.

"Leon?" It had been a man who he had been acquainted with during his time with the church, Father Eric.

"Father Eric, good evening." Leon greeted, stumbling slightly.

Eric quickly went to support Leon, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine, just need to get home to rest." Leon responded attempting to move away when Eric placed a hand on his forehead.

"Leon, you're burning up. Let's get you some help in town." Eric tried to lead Leon towards the town.

"No, I'll be fine. I just need to get home." Leon protested before he nearly collapsed, landing in Eric's arms.

"We're getting you help," Eric decided, leading Leon to his residence.

Leon let himself be led, slightly embarrassed.

As they approached Eric's home, Eric asked a man working outside, named Lace, to fetch the doctor.

When the doctor arrived, Leon had been placed on the bed and trying his best not to immediately fall asleep. He could hear the doctor talking with Eric about his condition before the man entered the room to look him over.

"No signs of any particular illness," The doctor noted before looking towards Eric, "We should leave him to rest."

As soon as the men had left the room, Leon fell into a deep sleep.

--

Later that night Leon was pulled from sleep by his pain.

The fever was bad, but when his back began to ache even more, Leon knew something was terribly wrong. He felt something was shifting and straining against his upper back. He stumbled out of the bed, breathing heavily as he moved over to the mirror. Attempting to view his back, He craned his neck and his eyes landed on two raised dark marks on his back. I need to call for the doctor.

"Father Eric!" Leon only had to call once before Eric rushed into the room.

"Is everything-" Eric didn't finish the question, noticing the marks, "I'll go get the doctor." Eric left before Leon could thank him.

Leon tried his best to steady his breathing as he waited for the doctor, but when a sharp pain in his back began to pulsate, he fell to his knees. He rested his forehead on the cool floor, gritting his teeth as the pain got worse. Then suddenly he was overwhelmed by the most agonizing pain. He felt his skin stretch before tearing as wings erupted from his back, and a scream from his throat, just as the door slammed opened revealing the doctor. Leon managed to look up before the pain overcame him and he fell unconscious to the floor.

--

Both the doctor and Eric looked at Leon's state with wide eyes.

"What on Earth?!" The doctor whispered as he took a step back. "Is he cursed?"

Eric rushed over to Leon, "I don't know, but he's hurt. He needs help." Eric looked at the doctor, pleading.

"This is a matter for the church." The doctor warily eyed the wings, feathers soaked with blood.

"He can't wait that long!" Eric argued.

The doctor looked conflicted for a minute before giving in with a sigh. He kneeled next to Leon, assessing the the damage. "Get a bucket of water and towels." the doctor ordered. Eric wasted no time, rushing out to grab the supplies.

The doctor went to apply pressure, noticing that the bleeding had slowed on its own as Eric rushed back in. The two of them began to clean the blood off of Leon.

"His fever is gone." The doctor stated, relieved that at least one problem was gone. "The bleeding stopped on its own." The doctor murmured to himself, fascinated.

Eric had occupied himself while the doctor worked by cleaning Leon's wings.

"They're white." Eric remarked.

"What?" The doctor looked up at Eric.

"His feathers are white." Eric clarified, mesmerized as he continued to rinse the blood out of Leon's wings.

"Like an angel," the doctor replied, saying what was on Eric's mind. "Speaking of, he is stable, but we don't know the nature of this transformation. We should alert the church."

Eric removed the silver cross from around his neck.

"We'll use this. If he is a creature of the night then he will react to this." Eric lightly touched the cross to Leon's skin. Nothing. He then fully placed it on Leon's back. Nothing.

"He's not a night creature." Eric smiled, putting the cross back on.

"So what is he?" The doctor pondered aloud.

"Isn't it obvious," Eric smiled, "He is an angel."

--

Leon began to stir when sunlight streamed through the window. He buried his face into the pillow, sitting there for a few minutes before willing himself to get up. That's when he noticed that the extra weight on him wasn't a blanket. Leon stared at the wings on his back and before he fully freaked out, Eric walked into the room.

"You're awake! Good Morning!" Eric rushed over to Leon's side.

"Eric what's this-" Leon continued to panic as he tugged at his wings.

Eric attempted to calm Leon, grabbing his wrists, "It's alright Leon- You grew them." Leon was still moving around "Try not to move so much, you don't want to open your wounds-" Eric started to warn before he noticed Leon's back. "Doctor!" Eric called out before continuing to try and calm Leon.

Leon tried to pull away, "My whip-"

"You aren't a night creature, Leon." Eric reassured, "We checked."

"What wrong?" The doctor entered the room in a hurry.

"Look at his back." Eric managed to get Leon to stop moving for a moment as the doctor walked over.

"It's completely healed," The doctor remarked, astonished.

"Completely healed!? There are wings on my back! I need to find a cure." Leon disputed.

"Cure? You aren't sick or cursed Leon." Eric frowned.

Leon looked at him as if he was insane, "There are wings attached to my back. Humans don't have wings."

"You're an angel." Eric countered.

"No," Leon stopped, "No, we are not entertaining this. I am human." He looked to the doctor, "Remove them."

"You want me to cut them off?" The doctor asked surprised.

Eric immediately interjected, "No! We are not maiming you."

Leon turned to Eric, "I'm not asking. I need to be able to blend in for my new line of work, besides, I would likely have to learn to fight all over again with these on my back."

"You're lucky you didn't bleed out the first time, it could be risky. Why don't we see if there is another way to resolve this?" The doctor then added, "A man of the church should be here soon- "

"I've been excommunicated." Leon cut him off, going get off the bed. "I'd rather resolve this issue without anyone else getting involved."

Just as he stood up, there was a knock at the door.

Leon began rushing to grab his things.

"Leon, it's alright-" Eric stood in front of the window, fearing that Leon would attempt to escape through the window.

The door opened, "Alright let's see this 'angel' you were talking about-" The man froze.

Leon looked at him, wings involuntarily opening.

"You weren't joking." The man looked astonished.

Leon turned to Eric, "Where is my whip?"

"You don't need that right now." Eric reassured. He then turned to the newcomer, "Peter, go get Lance."

"Eric, where is it?" Leon grabbed him by the collar as Peter ran off.

"Let's all calm down-" The doctor tried to interject, only to be ignored.

"Where did you put her?" Leon pressed, pushing Eric into the wall.

Peter had come back with Lance who immediately restrained Leon.

"Let go of me!" Leon thrashed in the taller man's hold. Leon increased his efforts as he noticed the doctor pulling a vial, of what he assumed was dwale, out of his bag.

"Hold his mouth open." The doctor approached as Lance used a hand to force open Leon's jaw. Lance grit his teeth as Leon bit down on his knuckles. The doctor poured the mixture down Leon's throat. Lance continued to hold Leon until his thrashing ceased and his body went limp.

"Here, let me mend your hand." The doctor went back to his bag after Lace placed Leon on the bed.

Eric went to Leon's side as Lance got patched up, "I was hoping this would go better."

"I'll inform the bishops, they will want to know about this," Peter went to leave.

"We'll be right behind you, we should get him there before he wakes up." Eric added as he brushed a lock of hair from Leon's forehead.

"He's going to be livid when he wakes." Lance said as the doctor finished wrapping his hand.

"I know. We will have to restrain him just in case." Eric sighed, standing up. "Let's get him home."

--

"He sprouted white wings and healed in mere hours?" The bishop asked as he followed Eric to the cart.

"Yes. He is sedated and restrained however, because he was so spooked that he asked the doctor to remove them." Eric informed the bishop as they reached the wagon. Leon was placed under a blanket in the wagon to not draw attention.

"Oh my word." The bishop leaned closer as Eric lifted the blanket, revealing Leon. "I'll send word to the archbishops."

"His wings are lovely, and if he isn't a night creature then this is a sign from God." The bishop turned towards Eric, "Thank you for bringing this to our attention. let's bring him inside."

Eric helped Lance bring Leon inside, resting him on a bed in the dorter.

The doctor placed his bag on a nearby table, "If he doesn't wake up by tonight, I'll use rubbing salts."

Eric nodded and sat on the chair by the bed after adjusting Leon's wings to be in a more comfortable position. He smoothed Leon's feathers, "It'll be ok, Leon, you're home now."

--

Leon groaned as began to come to. Eric smiled as Leon opened his eyes and looked over, confused.

"You'll be out of it for a while, Leon. I'm sorry we had to restrain you."

Leon looked down at where Eric had began brushing his wing with a soft brush.

"I'm just smoothing the feathers. An archbishop is on his way to see you."

Leon eyes flashed with unease and he began to try and move around, letting out a frustrated noise as he fought the restraints and drowsiness.

"Leon," Eric cupped Leon's face and looked into the man's glare, "I know you're scared."

Leon tried to pull his head away, but Eric's grip on him remained firm. A displeased noise left his throat as he attempted to protest. Leon's eyelids soon felt to heavy to hold up and the thrashing did nothing to help, he felt helpless.

Leon's eyes opened at the sound of the door opening and the doctor walking in.

"He's awake, good." The doctor walked in, "The bishop is talking with the archbishop now."

Leon stretched one of his wings out, not quite familiar with controlling them, but attempting to use them to free himself.

"Leon stop! You're going to hurt yourself." Eric pleaded as Leon strained against the restraints despite the lingering effects of the dwale.

Leon ignored him, flapping his wings wildly.

"Leon Belmont."

Leon froze looking over to see that the archbishop had entered the room.

"Leon Belmont. I see you have found your way back to the church." The archbishop approached looking at Leon's wings through his good eye, "It seems God truly favors you." Leon's wing twitched as the archbishop touched it and a flash of unease filled his eyes.

"He's still a bit out of it." Eric alerted the archbishop, who was still petting Leon's wing.

The archbishop turned to Eric, "I'll write to the pope for further instructions."

Leon made another noise of displeasure, but the archbishop continued, "Do we know why he is so adverse to keeping this blessing?"

"He wants fears they'll interfere with hunting night creatures." Eric answered.

"Do not concern yourself with night creatures Belmont, it is what led you away from the church in the first place."

Leon made another noise of protest as the archbishop continued.

"From this day forward you will remain in the custody of the church."

[darkartist98]

So uh.. I ship Leon and Dracula..