Isabella, future queen of Gardia, unlike any lady of her time, is no damsel, but a fierce warrior. Though respected by men and shunned by women she fleetingly wonders what it would be like to fall in love. The Head Knight of Jaria, enemy nation of Gardia, Aiden has resented women for most of his life and relishes in the fact that his job keeps him out of their conniving clutches. What happens when war threatens and stoic Aiden meets the formidable Isabella? Sparks fly in more ways than one. Cover by DemeterLucy

(Bickslow x OC) "You're weird." She told him straight to the face. "I know." He could feel his heart breaking a bit, hearing those words. "You're creepy." She continued "... Please-" "You're a freak." She didn't mind him. "-Shut up! You're-" "A loner." "Ash! Stop it!" His heart started to shatter. "Nobody likes you." "That's it! I'm-" "But I like it. Then you won't be a loner anymore. I'll be the one that likes you." She smiled to him. He froze. He was stunned by her words. No one has ever told him... this. He can't control his tears anymore. He let them out. She smiled. "Big crying baby." He stopped crying. "... Are you done yet?" "Um... Nope?" She faked her innocent smile, trying to lighten up the mood. He smirked at her. Then said nothing, only looking her in the eyes. How he is great that he met her. She's his light in the dark.