When this was refused, Longchamp ordered an armed assault on the castle. While Camville stayed with Prince John at Nottingham, Nicola held out against a month-long siege by a force of 30 knights, 20 mounted men-at-arms and 300 infantry, together with 40 sappers who attacked the walls of the castle.
When this was turned down, Longchamp ordered a military attack on the fortress. In the meantime, Camville stayed with Prince John at Nottingham, while Nicola held out against a prolonged siege by a substantial force of 30 knights, 20 mounted men-at-arms, and 300 infantry, accompanied by 40 sappers who targeted the castle walls.