Viking's Desire: Sexy-Romance Novel: A Viking Love Story Read Online Free Page B

child could knock them off their hinges.  Eriik called the day again and decided to give the castle an ultimatum tomorrow at dawn.  Unlike many of his kinsmen, Eriik was not fond of killing for no good reason, if he could achieve the goal peacefully.  Through the days of the siege, his one failure was the girl, dammit.  He was expecting victory and already dreading leaving her.
    Damnation!  Stop it .  What in the name of Thor was wrong with him?  Enough!  He finally fell into a restless sleep with thoughts of long russet silk falling in wave after wave down a slender alluring back.  He awoke with a start.  It was nearing dawn.

Chapter 6
     
    The day awoke sunny.  The air was as crisp as a summer apple and Eriik breathed it in deeply, almost being able to taste it.  It invigorated his senses and strengthened his purpose. 
    The men were stirring and in barely a moment, they were ready.  They gathered around him and started the walk in their battle formation toward the castle.  Eriik, in front, stood firm.
    “Lord of the Castle.  Listen and live , you and your people.  Your fortress will not stand another day.  Submit to our demands and your citadel will not be crushed, your women will not be taken, your men will not be beheaded and your castle will not be occupied.  Give us your treasure willingly and go about your business in peace.”
    Lord Devo rn appeared at the top of the wall, looking sheepish as his voice shook, “Never, as long as I live.” 
    Eriik’s voice was strong as he shrugged, “I’m afraid Lord, that will not be long.”
    Eriik pointed to the fortress and the men with the ram took their place.  The battle started again, but with pleasure, the Norsemen noticed there was no oil showering down upon them this day.  The castle’s archers were still busy but it seemed each day they were fewer and the Norsemen’s archers were still strong in number and aim. 
    Each time the ram struck, the gate s groaned and shuttered.  They were starting to open the slightest bit in the mid-section.  It shouldn’t be long now. 
    Inside the fortress, the able-bodie d, fighting men, were armed and at the ready, just waiting now for the inevitable.  Lillian stood at the top of the stairs and wept.  She caught her father’s eye as she started to descend the steps and she knew he was telling her not to come down under any circumstances.  She obeyed.
    The ram made its final surge and the gates crumpled.  The Norseman exploded inside the walls of the fortress that all inside had thought would protect them and their families.  It looked like a certain bloodbath but Eriik shouted in a full and strong voice, “Stop, everyone now!”  For some reason, not only did his men honor the command but everyone in the castle did so as well.  Perhaps they thought this could save their lives and most of them looked on with hope. 
    Eriik spoke again in a voice that was definitely in charge.
    “Lord, do you see these warriors.  They have stopped only because I commanded them to.  They are ready to slaughter everyone in here.  Is that what you want?  Are your possessions worth your lives?  I say nay!”  Again and for the last time, I offer you your lives for the treasures of this fortress.  Give them up willingly and we will return home and leave you in peace.  This is fair!”
    Lord Frederick hung his head, looked around at his people, terrified, and sorrowfully shook his head yes. 
    “Lord of the castle, I will hear your answer!”
    Frederick looked at Eriik, Jarl of Jaedon in the eye and said quietly, “Yes, I agree to your terms.”
    A few of the English fighting men cried out, “No!”
    Eriik raised his sword, “Don’t tempt these men.  They are the best warriors in the world.  You will be slaughtered if you try us.”
    “I agree, I have no doubt of what you say.”   Frederick whispered.  “Everyone will hand over their weapons.”  He gave a stern look, especially to the young, hardy