Kissing Hellfire: Marry Me, Evil Lord
Chapter 221: The Castle is Under Attack!

Chapter 221: The Castle is Under Attack!

Stepping out of the portal, Alec and Lauren arrived in front of Islandale’s church. Islandale was the farthest village from the capital with a small population of residents.

As they materialized, Lauren’s eyes were immediately drawn to a touching scene. A young nun stood at the church’s entrance, engaged in a heartfelt conversation with three wide-eyed children. The simplicity of the moment contrasted with the turmoil beyond.

The nun’s gaze lifted as Alec and Lauren approached, her curiosity piqued. Her inquisitive expression softened to awe as she caught sight of the royal crest gracing Alec’s attire, a symbol of their monarchy. Recalling the vivid portrait of the king that had circulated through the village during his ascension months ago, a wave of realization washed over her. This couple, standing before her, were none other than the revered king and queen.

With grace and deference, Lauren extended a polite greeting. Her arm rested lightly on Alec’s. "Good afternoon, sister."

The nun, overwhelmed by the honor of meeting her sovereigns, curtsied deeply. "Your Majesties," she addressed them, fully aware that such a visit held profound significance. "May I inquire as to how I may be of assistance?"

Before Alec could respond, a figure emerged from behind the nun, his voice resonating in a low, baritone timbre. "They are here for me, Sister Caroline. You should accompany the children back to the orphanage," he instructed.

"I shall excuse myself, then," Sister Caroline acknowledged, bowing her head to the royal couple before shepherding the children away.

With a welcoming gesture, Anthony beckoned Alec and Lauren inside the church. "Come in."

The antiquated wooden flooring spoke about its age. While candles bathed the interior in a soft, flickering glow, the stained glass windows allowing slivers of muted daylight to filter through.

As they ventured deeper into the church, Alec voiced the urgency of their visit to Anthony, who guided them towards a staircase leading to the basement.

"We came here for an urgent matter, Anthony. I know only an old sage like you can help us."

Anthony paused, casting a bemused glance at Alec. His raised brow hinted at mock offense. "An old sage, you say? You make it sound as if I resemble your grandfather."

Lauren couldn’t help but smile at Anthony’s good-natured banter. Despite his actual age, Anthony appeared robust, firmly entrenched in middle age.

In the church’s basement, wooden panels dominated the decor. Anthony led them into a chamber where a rectangular table took center stage. He gestured for them to take their seats.

"I assume you learned of my whereabouts from King Sebastian," Anthony surmised.

"The town is in turmoil, as we’ve heard. The rebels have made their move. You should prepare yourselves, King Alec, Queen Lauren. This is only the beginning."

Lauren inhaled deeply, her concern for their people and the kingdom palpable. The rebels could not be allowed to win this battel. The fate of their land hung in the balance.

"So, why have you come?" Anthony inquired.

"We require your assistance in determining if someone’s soul resides in the realm of the dead," Alec stated firmly.

Confusion momentarily clouded Anthony’s expression before he posed the inevitable question, "Whose soul are we discussing?"

"Lady Mildred. Lauren’s mother."

"I see..." Anthony nodded, a flicker of distress crossing his features. "Let me be honest with you."

"I possess the capability to perform such a task, but the preparation of the ritual demands time. I’ll need at least a couple of days and some of the late lady’s possessions."

"I understand, Anthony," Lauren responded. "We’ll return with my mother’s belongings. Will you be here?"

"Yes. This remote village houses many children in the orphanage, and with lurking threats, I wish to protect this place. I may not have mentioned this earlier, but I grew up in Islandale." Anthony smiled, lightening the mood with a personal touch.

"That explains your unwavering dedication," Alec remarked.

"When will you require Lady Mildred’s possessions?" Alec inquired.

"I’ll need them in two days. They are crucial for the final stage of the ritual."

Lauren expressed her deep gratitude. "Thank you, Anthony, for your unwavering help. You’ve never refused us."

Anthony chuckled, his gaze shifting to Alec. "Of course I should aid my friend. Besides, generosity costs me little and doesn’t hurt."

Lauren nodded appreciatively. "If there’s anything you require for the orphanage or the village, please inform us. We’ll have it sent as soon as possible."

"Thank you, Queen Lauren. I’ll keep that in mind."

Alec and Lauren did not stay in Islandale for long. The town had devolved into a battlefield, with deranged humans, black mages, and the royal army clashing. The threat loomed over the castle, making it the most crucial time for the monarchs to be present and find a solution to the crisis.

Traveling back to Evardin’s castle without sweating, Lauren and Alec were transported to the castle’s main hall where the clashing of swords and the energy of magic could be heard and felt.

Lauren’s eyes widened at the realization.

The castle was under attack!

Alec was suddenly holding a sword blazing with blue fire as he stood in front if Lauren defensively.

No rebels had made it inside the castle yet, but from the noises outside, it seemed like the royal guards and soldiers were fighting with the enemies outside!

"Listen to me, Lauren." Alec looked at her with a serious expression. "I will get you once everything has been settled here. I need to fight but I’d be distracted with you here."

"What do you mean, Alec? Are you saying that I should just lock myself in the room-"

"There is no time."

Alec’s portal appeared right in front of them and before Lauren could react, he had pushed her inside.

The next moment, Lauren found herself in the castle’s underground secret chamber. The glass-like dome trapping her inside the chamber told her that there was no way she could run back upstairs. Alec had locked her up and breaking off the barrier he made was impossible for her to do.