by Wend Petzler
Amber eyes hardened. “You will not engage in battle! Stay here and hold the castle. Michael, Gabriel stay within the Keep with your men. If we are overrun, defend the castle!” Nicolas ordered before he pressed a fierce, hard kiss on her mouth, releasing her to grab his helm and rushed from the hall.
Her men were openly stunned by Drago's order, seeking Isabella for guidance. What they saw heartened them mightily. A snarl of immense fury crossed her ethereal features as Drago rode out the gate. The Demon Lord roared her fury as she grabbed her sword. “Like hell! I'm not going to remain behind like a good, little girl! Demons, Black Knights, we ride for Serenity!” Isabella transformed before their very eyes into the feared Demon Lord.
Michael and Gabriel, along with over one hundred knights and soldiers surged out of the castle after her. The knights leapt onto their readied warhorses, unbelieving Drago rode out without their aid. Even from this distance they could see the Baron rode out to a trap.
Otto raced down the stairs from the rampart, his battle axe slung over his broad shoulder. “Did I just see Drago ride out with his men? He's only got thirty knights in his company,” he roared, furious at Drago's arrogance. His answer had to wait as Isabella swung up on Lucifer, who pranced with the building excitement of battle nearing. The look on her elfish features was pure rage.
Michael held his excited warhorse steady as he reverently handed the Demon Lord's helm to Isabella. When she placed it on her head, his black eyes burned an unholy gleam. “The Demon Lord rides tonight!” He roared, joined by the knights clad in black armor all around them.
Brandon hailed them from above. “It's an ambush!” He shouted as he watched the scene unfold through the distance viewer purchased from the Holy Land.
For the first time since Drago interrupted her life, Isabella felt whole. Steadying her wildly beating heart, she shied from the thought Drago might die tonight, it nearly undone her. A plan began to formulate in her mind. “Brandon, get the archers on the wall!” Isabella ordered as she steered her rearing horse around to face her loyal knights. “Gabriel, you and the Black Knights will follow me north of Serenity. Michael, you will take your Demons south and join with Drago. Push the Scots back towards the northern border, give them the false hope they can run home. We end this war tonight!” Isabella snarled as Lucifer reared, screaming his challenge. She took her shield from Miles and lowered her visor.
Signaling to the gate master, Brandon stared at the readied knights with fierce pride in his eyes. “Raise the gate!” He roared as he saluted the Demon Lord.
The Demon Lord lifted her shield in salute as she urged the glistening black stallion forward, the knights surged after her.
Hell was unleashed!
Nicolas led his knights into the city, agonized screams resounded in the crowded streets, people running as the fires blazed out of control. Men clad in kilts, holding torches, raced through the town, setting everything on fire. When the enemy spotted the knights, they ran. Roaring his challenge, they chased the thieves to the town square. Too late, Nicolas realized his mistake as they rounded the corner, finding a considerably large troop of mercenary knights waiting for them.
A trap!
His heart thundered in his chest as he thought of Isabella. Would she be made a widow tonight? One knight urged his horse forward, roaring his challenge, charging at Nicolas. The Red Dragon, champion to the King of England, answered the challenge, urging his stallion forward. The two knights met with a mighty clash of steel, fighting sword to shield as the rest of the knights charged into battle. The fire spread unchecked as the knights fought.
Roars came from all around Nicolas and his men as Scotsmen raced at them with swords and clubs, surrounding the tiring knights. Hope diminished. Nicolas realized he would not live long. Exhausted, he thought he was seeing things when ghostly shadows rose behind the charging Scotsmen. An eerie wail raised above the screams of pain from man and beast alike, the clash of steel. The Demons burst from the flames, charging and slashing, cutting a bloody path to their baron and his struggling knights.
Michael swung his snorting warhorse close to Drago, raising his helm. An evil grin broke the swarthy knight's stark, handsome features. “We couldn't allow you to have all the fun!” He laughed heartily as he met a wild swing from a clearly frightened knight as the Demons forced the mercenaries back.
Renewed strength and hope, Nicolas threw a relieved grin at Michael as he charged forward, blade flashing as the combined forces slaughtered the enemy down. “Knights of Blood Keep! Let us send this rabble back to Scotland.” His men rode shoulder to shoulder with the feared Demons, relief on their tired faces as they steadily pushed the enemy out of burning Serenity. As the knights continued to fight, a new sound rose above the battle cries.
Brass horns announced a new challenge over the clash of steel and screams of the dying. The sound raised the hairs on Nicolas’ neck. The man he fought looked around and screamed hoarsely, “Back with ye, it's the Demon Lord!"
The enemy was nearly out of town when they saw Hell waiting for them on a grassy knoll. An enormous force of Black Knights rode out of the flickering shadows, stretching out in a long line, their black lances lowered and ready. The flames of the fire burning cast the knights and warhorses with glowing red eyes. The noise of battle quieted somewhat, an ear-piercing scream shattered the night air as a giant warhorse, a glistening black steed rose majestically on his back legs, pawing the air. The rider turned a hideous helm to face the terrified enemy below, gleaming sword held aloft, lowering to point at the enemy. As one body, one voice, the roar burst forth as the Black Knights charged down the hill, trapping the terrified Scotsmen and shouting mercenaries.
Nicolas was stunned as the Black Knights crashed into the hordes as men and beast alike screamed as the black wave rode over them. The Demons answered the Black Knights as they charged into the melee as more black riders surged from the east as well as the west, effectively sealing off any chance for escape. Isabella meant for the threats from William to end tonight!
Damn right, he growled, roaring his challenge, hacking his way toward his beloved wife.
Gabriel fought on her right as Michael rode up beside them, fighting on Isabella's left. Mercenaries trapped with the Scotsmen fought as best they could as the infamous trio worked their way to Drago. Nicolas’ heart slammed violently in his chest as he watched the trio fight. A flash of battle scenes not so long ago as he remembered numerous battles they had fought in. The Demon Lord swung her blade with deadly precision as Lucifer maneuvered Isabella closer to her enemy. Gabriel and Michael fought ferociously, ever protecting her back.
A Scot engaged her blade and in a surprising move, the man knocked the hideous helm off her head. Instead of retreating, Isabella snarled, stabbing the man through his heart, killing him instantly. She faced a new opponent with a fierce snarl curving her soft lips. Recognition glowed in her emerald eyes as she faced her enemy.
"I'll kill you, bitch!” A savage voice shouted close to her, William McLeod.
"C'mon, you bastard, it's time we ended this. I warned you I would kill you the next time you set foot on my soil.” Isabella growled as she urged Lucifer forward. Blades clashed, blue sparks flew as the two warriors hacked at one another.
Nicolas made to lunge forward and take her place when several Scotsmen blocked his way from rushing to Isabella's side. Snarling with seething rage, he fought savagely, trying to get to her.
William wore the look of a man gone insane as he urged his frightened horse closer to the possessed beast Isabella rode. The smaller horse balked as Lucifer bit and shoved the lesser animal back as Isabella wove a web of steel, wearing the border lord down. William gritted his teeth from exhaustion, screaming as Isabella sliced his right arm, making it difficult for him to keep his sword level.
"You bitch! Who made you the Demon Lord?” The weakening man demanded, desperately trying to keep Isabella from advancing.
She laughed a musical sound amongst the dea
th cries. “To be quite honest, you did!” Isabella replied as she grinned evilly as she closed in on William.
"Me?” William asked breathing heavy as he desperately tried to hold her blade back.
"It started out as a rumor, only a demon could hold Blood Keep for no man or a mere slip of a girl had any hope of standing in your way.” Isabella spat as she drove the sharp tip deep in the exhausted man's withered heart. “You were wrong! I am a mere girl, and I rule Blood Keep!” Emerald eyes watched in satisfaction as the dead man fell from his horse. William's glazed eyes stared in disbelief, killed by a woman.
A collective gasp resounded as Scotsmen who were close enough to hear and see their leader cut down by Lady Isabella, who was none other than the Demon Lord! Isabella signaled to Gabriel to sound the horns, allowing what remained of the enemy to leave Serenity. The wind picked up, fed by the firestorm, burning the rest of Serenity to the ground. With her long hair whipping around her, Isabella raised her bloodied sword aloft, screaming her defiance as the enemy raced into the dark to their side of the border. Many voices added to her victorious scream as the Demons and the Black Knights roared along with Drago, and his men.
Isabella wheeled her horse around to face her husband, suddenly exhausted by the fight. Her eyes, however, burned an unholy green fire as she rode alongside Nicolas, soot and blood covering her armor, and face. There was no mistaking the fury in her expression as she pulled back the reins as she faced Nicolas. She saluted him as one lord to another and then she yelled at him.
"Do you enjoy placing yourself in situations where at any moment you could make me a widow?” Isabella raged at him, not caring if their men heard her or not. Nicolas was too stunned to reply, fueling her rage even more. “I am sick and tired of you not using me or my men! Further more, you have no concept of the depths my enemy will descend to accomplish your demise or mine. We are familiar with our enemy's tactics while you aren't. And, yet you ride out of the Keep into a situation which is clearly a trap. Topping off the stupidity, you allowed the only major city between us and London burn to the ground!” Isabella shouted, slamming her sword in the scabbard, clearly furious at the man she loved.
Answering her the best way he knew how, his gloved hand reached behind Isabella's head and drew her to him as his mouth captured hers in a searing kiss, leaving no doubt in her mind he was sorry for not trusting her wisdom. Nicolas poured all his love and relief in the kiss. When he sat back, releasing her, he could not help grinning at Isabella who sat her horse stunned.
"I love you, too!” His teeth flashed white against the soot and grime of the battle.
It took a minute for Isabella to gather her wits before smiling. Shaking her head at the crazy man she was married to, her eyes softened as she whispered back. “I love you, but if you should ever pull a stunt like that again, I swear I will have Otto throw your ass in the dungeon!” Isabella threatened her husband, meaning every word as she urged her tired stallion forward, riding toward the burning city.
Gabriel looked askance at Michael, a confused grin spreading on his handsome face. “We have a dungeon?” He, Michael and Nicolas started to laugh as Isabella threw a murderous glare in their direction.
"Beware, Gabriel! I just might have one built especially for you.” Isabella promised, her voice soft, filled with menace. She urged her horse in a canter, riding to the ruined town as people gathered on the hill, watching the fire devour the city.
Chuckling, feeling part of the infamous trio, Nicolas urged his horse to catch up with his fuming wife. He instantly sobered as he surveyed the destruction, seeing the blackened faces of frightened children who clung to their mothers as the men salvaged what they could. The destruction of Serenity was complete. Though water lines were established, but to no avail as the flames swept over the wooden structures of homes and shops. The knights gave aid until it became clear the fire won. Wagons from Blood Keep arrived, and the exhausted survivors climbed in and were taken back to the castle.
Tears fell unchecked as Isabella silently wept as she watched the flames destroy the town she built in her sister's honor. Alden would pay dearly for the pain he brought upon her people, she thought, cold fury burning deep within her. A gentle hand swept over her hair, distracting Isabella from thoughts of revenge. Sad eyes lifted to met her husband's as he leaned down, kissing her soft lips.
Compassion glowed in Nicolas’ eyes as he pressed his forehead to hers. “We will return to the castle and ensure our people are well taken care of. In the morning, we will begin rebuilding Serenity.” He tenderly wiped the tears away and was immensely relieved as her gloved hand wrapped around his nape, pulling him to meet her lips, fierce, wild, and grateful for his presence beside her.
"Thank you,” Isabella whispered before taking a deep breath, signaling for the Demons and the Black Knights to encircle the wagons, guarding the frightened people.
Nicolas rode beside Isabella as they escorted the sad procession back to Blood Keep. Aggie had the entire castle turned out and ready to receive the displaced townspeople. Wine, food, and fresh clothes were gathered in the hall as the housekeeper, and her servants set about aiding the people who wore expressions of emptiness and shock.
The exhausted knights handed their reins over to the squires who would personally see to the tired warhorses. Miles, who Nicolas found out was Isabella's squire, came forward and led Lucifer away as his own squire took his stallion's reins. Nicolas took Isabella's hand in his as they walked back to the Keep, halting when Brandon strode forth from the double doors.
"Lord Drago! We were going to save this for the tournament, but today seemed more appropriate.” Brandon grinned broadly as he and Otto unfurled a silk banner. The brisk breeze gathered the black silk streaming in the blushing morning light, the image on the background unfolded before the captivated audience. A jubilant roar issued from the gathered knights when they saw a silver-haired she-demon screaming her defiance as she rode the red Dragon, its claws extended.
Tears of joy welled as Isabella glanced up at her husband to see what his response would be. Nicolas’ eyes blazed with pride as he leaned down to whisper in her pink ear. “I love it when you ride me!” Isabella blushed as he lifted her off the ground, whirling her around and around. His lips claimed hers in a passionate kiss as the knights surrounding them clapped, roaring their approval.
The knights strode inside the hall, wine and ale flowed, everyone drank heartily to a glorious victory. Nicolas carried Isabella inside and settled her in a chair as he took his seat beside her. Exhaustion settled in as the adrenaline rush from the fight wore off. She knew by Aggie's red eyes, the older woman had been crying. Losses were heavy, the destruction of Serenity massive. Sad, emerald eyes scanned the soot covered people as they held onto each other for comfort as others stared vacantly at the floor. Grimness set in. Her people were dealt a harsh blow, but William was no longer a threat, Isabella thought, relieved to have one enemy dead, one more to go, Alden.
Standing, Isabella drew her sword, resting the bloodied blade casually on her crossed arms, waiting for the people to quiet. Nicolas watched, questioning her actions when a hush settled over the people as they waited for their Lady to speak. Grabbing the sharp blade in her hand, she raised it in the air so those around her could see the silvery hilt of the Demon Sword. Emerald eyes burned with fierce determination as she met the expectant gazes of her people.
"Tonight, we lost many loved ones to the senseless killing by William and his clansmen. One enemy has met justice for I have sent William to Hell where he belongs!” Isabella shouted as the knights leapt to their feet and drew their swords in salute. As the shouts calmed, she continued, “However, we have one more enemy to deal with. The man we seek is clever and sadistic."
Sharp, white teeth bared as Isabella's hard gaze swept the chamber. “Drago will face the bastard in the lists three days hence to decide the fate of Blood Keep.” Her voice whipped through the gasps as she searched the crowd for signs of guilt or defiance.
“Lord Alden will not have Blood Keep as long as I live!” Isabella shouted, flipping the sword, catching the hilt, holding the bloodied blade high above her as the knights shouted her name, their own blades held high.
Nicolas jumped to his feet, gazing with awe and love for the brave woman he called wife. When the crowd calmed, Nicolas raised his cup high. “I am grateful to Edward for sending me to Blood Keep and to be blessed with marrying a woman as beautiful, and wise as Isabella. I am also grateful to have a home and a people whom I am proud to call family. To family!” Nicolas shouted before he drank deeply as did Isabella who watched him with love shining in her eyes.
She rose on her toes and kissed his beautiful mouth, smiling devilishly. “Let us retire and clean up.” Isabella led her husband from the cheering crowd up to their chamber.
In the safety of their chamber, they wasted no time stripping their clothes and washing the rest of the gore, and soot off. He picked her up, carrying her to the waiting bed and made love to Isabella until they collapsed, entwined in each other's arms. The day could wait with the multitude of problems to be dealt with.
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Chapter Nineteen
When they rose several hours later, chaos met Nicolas and Isabella as they rode out to what remained of Serenity. He made a solemn promise to Isabella that she could dress any way she wished. Isabella rode by his side, fully armed with sword strapped to her back and shield tied to the black leather saddle, black cloak was tossed over steel encased shoulders, appearing wickedly dangerous.
Lucifer tossed his head nervously as the stallion carefully picked his way through the charred timber and fallen stone. Patting his bulging neck, calming the upset animal, Isabella felt sicken by the senseless destruction and loss of life. The death toll was mercifully less than first presumed. The knights thankfully suffered minor injuries from the Scotsmen and the hired mercenaries. They knew Alden was behind the attack, but evidence was needed. Isabella grew disturbed as the dead consisted mostly of Scots.
