by Wend Petzler
"The mercenaries are indeed good at leaving no clues of their involvement.” She commented to Gabriel as Nicolas rode ahead, Ahmed by his side.
Somber, his sharp, blue eyes searched the rubble. “It was a bold move last night, even for Alden.” He was still furious at the near demise of the new baron.
Her eyes burned an unholy, emerald fire as Isabella reflected over the ambush. “The traitor has to be close, knowing Drago would order me to remain in the Keep while he rode out to meet William without the Black Army.” Her voice was soft, filled with the need for revenge.
Frowning at the possibilities of who the traitor could be, Gabriel watched with a heavy heart as people begun cleaning the charred rubble, preparing to rebuild Serenity. “One of Drago's knights, do you suppose?"
Shaking her head, Isabella knew without a doubt it was one of her own men. “Closer to home, I think."
Gabriel was shocked by the idea, but it made sense. “A new recruit?"
"You and Michael will review the men accepted after harvest.” Isabella paused as she thought of another possibility. “Check the squires, one of them could be used to get close to me and Drago."
The thought of one of the faithful squires being a traitor left Gabriel cold inside. The young men had access to weaponry and were privy to information pertaining to the Black Army, and its secrets. “I will see to it personally, I swear it.” Gabriel ground out. When he found the traitor, he would make an example of him. Those who endangered Isabella and Drago would pay dearly.
She grimly accepted his oath as Nicolas pointed at a dead knight sprawled amongst the ashes. “I have seen this man before, but I'm not sure where?” Isabella frowned, trying to remember.
Otto reined his horse beside hers. “Ye should recognize him. He was the Earl's loyal captain."
She straightened, fury blazing in her eyes. “Sir Harold!” Isabella snarled in hatred. “We must send a rider to the King at once."
Nicolas grabbed Lucifer's reins, looking up at her, frowning at the rage and fear in her eyes. “Why does this man give you concern?"
"That man was supposed to be guarding my nephew.” She whispered past the hard lump forming in her throat.
Stunned, he drew back at her words. “Serenity's son?"
"Yes,” she snapped before urging Lucifer into a fast gallop, riding hard to the Keep.
Skidding to a halt before the steps, Isabella swung off her horse, letting the reins trail as she dashed inside. In the library, she hastily composed a letter to Edward, praying Edward had received Father Abraham's and had Xander in his protection. Her hands shook as she folded the parchment and held a red wax stick over a candle, dripping it onto the parchment, stamping her seal into it. A rider was soon racing to London bearing the letter and her hopes the child was safe.
Not long after, Nicolas strode into the Keep searching for his wife. When he found her in the study, he grew alarmed as emerald eyes filled with an emotion Nicolas thought he would never see, fear. He poured wine in a cup for Isabella and one for himself as he sat beside her. “Xander is the rightful heir to Blood Keep, is he not?"
She downed the wine in a single gulp. “Yes, but the reason I'm terrified is not of his heritage. Xander is the only living family I have with regards to Edward. I wanted to raise the boy here at Blood Keep, but Edward thought it best the boy remain at my stepfather's estates, keeping Alden and the political hounds were kept at bay.” Worry etched her drawn and tired features. “Alden has petitioned the King on numerous occasions to be made Xander's guardian in order to gain control of the coffers belonging to Middlesex."
Rising, Nicolas walked behind her, rubbing Isabella's tense shoulders. She sighed as his long, strong fingers massaged the tension away. “Come with me.” Nicolas whispered in her ear, offering his hand to aid he ascent. He led her up to their chambers, knowing Isabella's strength was waning from the disastrous events of the last few weeks.
Exhaustion seeped in her muscles and her eyes were blurry with the need for sleep. A sexy half-smile curved Nicolas's lips as he helped Isabella out of her armor. She swayed from exhaustion, Nicolas finished undressing her. Sympathetic to Isabella's needs, he picked her up in his powerful arms and carried her to the bed. Tucking the blankets securely around her, Nicolas bent to kiss Isabella as she snuggled in the warm blankets, falling fast asleep. He gently smiled down at his wife before leaving, knowing Michael and Gabriel were waiting for him downstairs.
When Nicolas walked into the great hall, Gabriel rushed forward, anger burning in his eyes. “Have riders been sent to the King?"
Nicolas placed a reassuring hand on worried man's shoulder. “Isabella has sent word of our finding Sir Harold."
The agitated knight abruptly sat down, running a weary hand through his hair. “I pray the boy is safe."
Michael paced the chamber, black eyes cold as a graveyard. He wanted to tear Alden apart with his bare hands. A slender hand tentatively touched his forearm causing his fierce gaze to pin the person who dared touch him. Michael blinked in surprise. Tara smiled at him hesitantly, blushing as he covered her hand with his much larger one.
"All will be well, Sir Michael. I'll pray for the lad.” Tara felt the undercurrent of fear racing through the Keep as word spread of the unknown fate of the young Earl.
It was difficult for him to admit how touched he was by the young woman's concern for a boy she never met. Michael tilted his head as he eyed her with a disapproving frown. “Why are you wearing a dress?” He demanded as he stepped closer to the tall, young woman, trying to intimidate her.
Tara looked at him as if he had lost his mind. Placing her hands on her hips, she demanded what he meant. “What exactly am I suppose to be wearing if not a dress?"
He crossed his powerful arms, a grin creasing his harsh, handsome features. “Weren't you to be fitted for your new armor today?"
Relieved, it dawned on her what Michael meant. “You mean it? I can train to be a Demon?” At Michael's consenting nod, she shrieked joyfully, hugging the dark knight until she remembered her place. Abashed by her forwardness, she mumbled, “Sorry."
Nicolas grinned broadly as Michael turned red at the exuberant show of affection from Tara. “I think Michael should personally oversee Tara's training. Don't you, Gabriel?” He asked the knight beside him who grinned at Michael's obvious discomfort.
Clearing his throat, Gabriel tried to be serious. “I believe it would be the wisest course."
Michael glared at them. “Go to hell, the both of you!” He grabbed Tara's arm, leading the dazed girl from the hall, ignoring the stifled laughter from the two knights.
Tara wisely kept her mouth shut. Secretly, she had fallen in love with the feared knight. She knew it the minute her eyes met the ebony ones of the commander of the fierce Demons. A small smile curved her lips, ecstatic Michael was not immune to her after all. Tara swore someday Michael would deem her worthy of his affection, and one day, his love.
Sighing, Nicolas returned his attention to matters of the Keep. He motioned for Gabriel to follow him outside. “How fares the people of Serenity?"
"Better than expected. Villagers are aiding the townspeople with cleanup and the reconstruction of the town. Where is Isabella?” Gabriel asked, worried he had not seen her.
"Worry not, she is upstairs asleep.” Nicolas watched the work continue for the tournament. “How goes the preparations?"
At that moment, Otto joined them, a fierce frown on his bearded features. “It goes fine. It's the damn attack on Serenity that has put our food supply in jeopardy, not to forget the King and the hordes of people come to see the events have not arrived as yet."
Nicolas thought of the problem and saw a clear solution. “Gabriel, when you send out patrols, reissue a command to bring fresh game back for the feasts."
The golden-haired knight nodded. “Yea, I will issue the order.” Gabriel signaled to a group of knights, leaving Nicolas alone with Otto.
"I will inform Aggie to expect fresh m
eat. Are you ready to fight Alden?” Otto asked, his bright blue eyes pinning the baron.
"You truly believe the man will show?” A dark eyebrow rose sardonically, Nicolas appeared amused by the question.
"Oh, he'll show, and Alden will try his best to ensure you don't!” The old man growled, still angry at Drago's foolish actions earlier.
Having the grace to flush at Otto's words, “I was honestly more concerned for Isabella's safety than my own.
Laughter shook the giant's frame. “I guess ye won't be making that same mistake again, will ye?” Otto slapped the tall knight on the back before entering the castle.
Shaking his dark head, Nicolas smiled ruefully as he thought of the many mistakes he made concerning Isabella, all in the best intentions.
Hours later, Isabella woke, confused the chamber was dark. It slowly dawned on her night had fallen. She searched for her leather pants and tunic, digging out a clean, white linen shirt, and quickly dressed. A sliver of a moon cast its pale light on the trees below the chamber's window as Isabella gazed upon the land she loved, feeling the warm breeze promising summer.
Dark thoughts of a traitor in their midst shattered Isabella's peace. The door open, admitting Nicolas who smiled as he found his wife by the window, her brow gathered as she frowned, thinking she had not noticed him. He was right behind her before Isabella smiled up at him.
"I was beginning to think you would sleep the night away.” He teased as he pulled her in his arms, his chin resting on the top of her head.
A content smile curved her lips as Isabella leaned back, trusting Nicolas’ immense strength. “I am merely gathering my strength."
His warm mouth curved along the sweet, bare skin of her neck, working his way to the ticklish spot below her ear. His concerned eyes rose and met hers. “The next few days will be dangerous for both of us. Stay close to me, Gabriel, or Michael. Alden knows you are my only weakness."
Turning around in his embrace, Isabella looped her arms around his sturdy neck, gazing up at him, love in her eyes. “Alden doesn't understand I am your greatest strength. As long as I am by your side, nothing can happen to you.” She solemnly promised as she rose on her toes, kissing him, teasing him until passion rose hot and sweet, sending flames of heat shooting through them.
Strong hands caressed her bottom, lifting her easily, pressing Isabella against the wall as his mouth devoured hers with a hunger born of love mingled in raw passion. Hot flames burned Isabella as Nicolas lifted his mouth from hers, staring deep into her eyes, boldly claiming her, taking her breath away. “You and I will stand together, forever. I love you as I have loved no other!"
"As I, you,” Isabella whispered before he claimed her lips in a kiss, sending lightening sizzling through her as his velvet tongue swept along hers, building the fire hotter.
Reluctant to end the kiss, Nicolas knew Isabella was hungry. He shivered as her body slid along his powerful frame as he released her. Taking her hand in his, they joined the hungry crowd downstairs. Isabella paused to grab her sword, and for once, Nicolas did not question her intentions.
Tension weighed heavily in the air as people gathered for prayer and the delicious food. Isabella's sharp eyes watched the servants, the conversations between warriors and villagers as they ate. Suspicious glances were cast about when Isabella noticed Miles acting strangely. “Nicolas, when does the king arrive?” Isabella asked as she watched the young man study his unfinished plate as if it was the focal point in the great hall.
Filling her cup as Nicolas replied, unaware of her suspicions, “While you slept, a rider came, bearing a message from Edward. The King will arrive tomorrow afternoon. Alden rides with him. Edward felt it wise to keep the bastard close to him, better able to watch his movements.” He growled.
The squire suddenly shoved away from the table and hurried from the hall. The traitor had finally exposed himself. She gave a subtle hand signal to Michael, ordering him to follow Miles as she turned a brilliant smile to her husband. “I shall speak to Aggie, ensuring all is ready.” Giving him a quick kiss, she casually wandered over to where Aggie sat.
Aggie smiled in greeting as Isabella sat beside her. “Edward arrives tomorrow, are we ready?"
"Aye, we're prepared. Brandon issued instructions for the guards to inspect every wagon entering the gates, including knights and their entourages.” Aggie whispered, resting her elbows on the wooden table, glancing at the crowd around them.
"I doubt even the King can keep a snake like Alden under control for long. We shall hope for the best."
Following the boy was far too easy, Michael thought as he stayed to the shadows. Miles made his way to the very bowels of Blood Keep. The young man walked across the arena and opened a secret door, exiting the castle. Hidden by the door, Michael waited. In the heavily treed woods, the boy nervously peered around him. A shadow parted from the dark forming a horse and rider. Michael listened to their conversation.
Miles glanced around, a cold, calculating gleam in his eyes. “Edward arrives tomorrow. Is all taken care of?” He asked the knight.
"Aye,” he replied, cautiously peering into the dark, too.
"If all is ready, why is Drago still breathing?” The usually mild, young man snapped in obvious agitation.
"Where is the Demon Lord? Why was Lady Isabella leading the Black Army against my men and the Scots?” He glared back at the upstart.
Miles grew livid. “How was I to know Isabella would disobey Drago's order? The woman does what she wants!"
"Alden needs proof of your devotion to our cause. What do you plan to do?” The knight demanded, warily backing his horse away from the seething boy.
"Leave it to me. I'll personally take care of Drago, eliminating any chance of Alden having to fight him. I will meet you here in two nights’ time with proof of my loyalty. I must return in case I am missed, I can't afford to have suspicion drawn to me.” Miles returned through the secret door as the unknown knight rode back into the dark forest.
Undecided whether to kill the knight or follow Miles, Michael decided to keep close to the boy. Satisfied the squire was heading to the kitchen to help, Michael sought out Isabella.
When Isabella saw Michael return, she was alarmed by the ominous frown on his swarthy features. By the look on his face, Michael bore bad news.
Nicolas noted the return of the dark knight and glanced at his wife whose face hardened perceptibly in the candlelight. Leaning down, he demanded, whispering harshly in Isabella's ear. “What is going on?” She smiled as if nothing wrong, a sign Nicolas was beginning to recognize Isabella was up to something.
"What do you mean?” Isabella asked her eyes wide and innocent. He snorted in disbelief. “All is well, trust me.” Isabella leaned closer to him, caressing his hard jaw, soothing his worries.
Nicolas relaxed and sat back in his chair, an amused smile lit his handsome feature. “You are diverting me from the subject at hand.” He stated, pinning her with a raised eyebrow and a quirk on his lips.
A truly devilish grin widened on Isabella's lips, showing perfect, white teeth. “Is it working?” Isabella asked cheekily.
His hand reached to cup her slender neck, Nicolas felt her pulse leap, beating wildly in his large palm. Nicolas lazily smiled down at her as he drew Isabella closer. “As a matter of fact, it works far too well for my peace of mind. Shall we retire for the evening?"
Isabella chuckled wickedly as she scooted her chair back, rising with his assistance. “Yea, we should go to our chamber. We wouldn't want to raise your suspicions.” Nicolas just laughed and swatted her shapely behind, bidding all a good-night.
The heavy oak door closed firmly behind Nicolas. Leaning against the wood, he watched his wife unbuckle her sword and sauntered toward him. A gleam in her emerald eyes quickened his pulse as she halted before him. Amber eyes burned with unleashed fire as he cupped her face tenderly. “I love you.” Nicolas whispered hoarsely as he fiercely pulled Isabella to him.
Her eyes g
lowed as Isabella held his handsome face in her hands, gazing deep in the amber depths for Nicolas to see the truth of her feelings for him. “Nicolas, you are my life, my breath, the very heart beating within my soul. Promise me you will be careful with Alden around? The bastard knows the Keep almost as well as I. He will do all he can to ensure you do not meet him in the lists.” She warned, fear creeping in her heart for the man she loved.
He pressed a tender kiss on her soft lips as his hand smoothed her wild hair from her hauntingly beautiful face. “I promise to be careful as long as you learn to trust me."
"Trust you?” Isabella laughed softly, an eyebrow arched at his rash actions of late.
"What was Michael up to?” Nicolas frowned at her, wanting to know what was going on.
Sighing in resignation, Isabella shifted from his embrace, disrobing. “We have found our traitor. I will know more in the morning when I speak with Michael."
Anger burned in Nicolas’ eyes as he barked, “I am Baron here! I should be informed of these events!” Nicolas raged at her as she continued to watch him with amusement as they undressed.
"Drago, I will share the information in the morning when I know more. With Edward and Alden coming tomorrow, we must act as if nothing is wrong. When the time is right, we will end the charade, and you will be free to defeat Alden. The games will end.” Isabella replied, her voice husky. Entering into his waiting arms, she kissed him, teasing him to relax, allowing her to deepen the kiss.
Growling deep in his throat, Nicolas wrapped her in a tight embrace, lifting her up, striding to the bed and covered her slender body with his massive frame, kissing her sweet mouth with a savage passion. A long moment passed before Nicolas lifted his head to gaze in her passion glazed emerald eyes. “Promise me, you will not do anything foolish or impulsive, like handling the traitor on your own? Promise me!” Nicolas demanded hoarsely as his lower body pinned her to the mattress.
She caressed his handsome face. “I promise to be careful for I would never endanger myself as someone I know has done so many times in the past!” Isabella added pertly.
