Political intrigue is another theme. The OC usually gets caught up in the power struggles in the court. They might be used as a pawn or find a way to manipulate the situation to their advantage, just like the characters in the original 'Reign' series.
Love and romance are common. Often, the OC will fall in love with Francis or be involved in a love triangle within the court. For example, in many stories, the OC might be a rival to Mary for Francis's affections.
There's also 'A Stranger in Reign's World' which focuses on an OC who has unique skills and knowledge from a different land. This OC gets involved with Francis in a rather unexpected way, adding new twists to the relationships and events we know from the 'Reign' series. The story is well - written, with detailed descriptions of the court life and the interactions between the characters.
In fanfiction, Francis and Mary could face a magical threat together. Maybe a sorcerer has cast a spell on the kingdom, and they have to work together using their wits and courage. This would not only test their love but also show how they support each other in difficult times. It could lead to some really interesting character development and romantic moments as they rely on each other to save the kingdom.
The most common themes include love, of course. Their love story is what attracts many fans to write about them. Then there's the theme of royalty and court life. Since they were part of the royal court, fanfictions often depict the grandeur and the politics of the court. For example, how they had to maintain appearances while dealing with their personal feelings. There's also the theme of friendship. They were not only lovers but also friends, and fanfictions might explore this aspect, like how they supported each other as friends in difficult times.
Often, there might be themes related to relationships. For example, how her pregnancy affects her relationship with Francis or other important characters in the 'Reign' series. It could also explore how she copes with the physical and emotional changes while still being a queen, so themes of power and motherhood might be intertwined.
In 'Reign', Francis and Mary had a complex relationship. Francis was initially hesitant about their arranged marriage but grew to love Mary. For fanfiction, one could explore their early days, like how they first started to understand each other's personalities. Maybe a scene where they share a private moment in the garden, talking about their hopes for the kingdom and gradually realizing their feelings for one another.
Power struggles are a common theme. In reign fanfic, characters often fight for control over the kingdom or court. Another theme is love and romance. Many fanfics will have a romantic subplot set against the backdrop of the reign. Also, loyalty is often explored, whether it's loyalty to the crown, family, or friends.
A possible plot idea is that the baby is born prematurely. Mary and Francis are worried about the baby's survival. They turn to their most trusted advisors and physicians, but there are also those who see this as a sign of weakness in the monarchy. Meanwhile, there could be an enemy lurking in the shadows, planning to use the baby's fragile state to their advantage. As Mary and Francis fight to protect their baby, they also have to deal with the internal politics and power struggles within the court.
Love and friendship can also be important themes. In the face of the vampire threat, relationships between humans can become stronger. And sometimes, there might even be unexpected relationships between humans and vampires, blurring the lines between the two species.
Power is a common theme. In reign historical fiction, we often see how those in power, like kings and queens, use and abuse their authority. For example, in stories about the Tudor reign, the monarchs' power over life and death was a significant aspect.
Well, adventure is a big one. Think about it, they were both sailors in a time when the seas were full of mystery and danger. So, many fanfictions will have them sailing into uncharted waters, facing storms and sea monsters. Rivalry also pops up a lot. They were both powerful in their own ways, and some stories play on that, with them competing for treasure or territory. There are also some fanfictions that explore a more emotional side, like how they might come to understand and care for each other despite their differences.