Fergus shook his head, then smiled at Leila.“I would not leave Leila without a translator when she takes command of the keep’s resources.”
Calum chuckled.“Indeed, indeed.I am inclined to sleep late, Lady Leila, but on the morrow, feel free to assert your authority in the hall.You are its lady now, and we both rely upon you to aid in its administration.”
“I thank you,” Leila said, feeling her excitement rise in anticipation of this responsibility.She knew she would enjoy it.“And thank you, Fergus, for the offer of Hamish’s assistance.”She thought it a poor idea for Fergus to ride alone, but did not say as much just yet.She had a suggestion to make but decided to do it in private, lest it appear that she was challenging Fergus before the entire village.
“And so it is resolved,” Fergus said.
Then Calum raised a finger.“But Duncan’s planned departure reminds me of my debt,” he said, then rose to his feet.
“You owe me naught...”Duncan began to protest, but Calum ignored him.
He raised his voice.“Baldwin, bring the prize we discussed to me, if you please.”
A sturdy man approached the high table.There was a fine crossbow balanced on his palms, the wood inlaid in a style familiar to Leila.
“It is fine, is it not?”Calum asked her with pride.
“It is, indeed,” Leila said, knowing her admiration was clear.“Was it made in the east?”
“In Constantinople.It is a noble weapon, which has awaited the right warrior.”Calum winked.“He is found.”
Leila smiled, liking that he was as generous as his son.This trait was why people were so loyal to Calum and would be thus to his son.
Calum lifted the crossbow in his hands as the company watched, then pivoted to present it to Duncan.“A fitting gift for a warrior who has served me so valiantly for so long.This is for you, Duncan, and if you accept it, this gift will balance the debt between us.”
“I would argue that it leaves me again obligated to you,” Duncan said, but Calum only laughed.
“Let us agree, for I would see you find your future happiness sooner rather than later.”He gave Duncan a stern eye.“And you may have need of such a fine weapon, if you journey where I suspect you will.”
“I do and you know it well.”
“Just as I know you will not be turned from your goal.”Calum nodded.“Take it.Let me see you well armed on this quest.”
Duncan smiled, then accepted the crossbow, admiring it so openly that Leila was pleased on his behalf.“I am honored, as you well know.”He dropped to one knee before Calum.“Know, sir, that you can always rely upon my alliance and friendship.”
“No man could ask for more,” Calum said, clasping Duncan’s shoulders and lifting him to his feet.He kissed Duncan’s cheeks, then the company applauded the generosity of his gift.They saluted the health of both men, then returned to their conversations as Calum took his seat again.
Some of the villagers left their places and fetched instruments.They conferred together as stray notes sounded, and evidently there would be music this night.
Leila stroked the rich garment Calum had given to her.“Will you tell me more of your journey to the east?”
The older man patted her hand.“I will, but another time.This is a night for dancing, not for tales recounted around the fire.You may be sure that there will be many nights when a tale will be more welcome than other deeds.”Then he winked at her and Leila felt herself flush, for she understood his meaning well.
He anticipated that she would quickly be with child and more inclined to sit and talk.
She found herself blushing…and hoping the very same.
She was also reassured that his words implied he did see a handfast as equivalent to marriage.
Calum chuckled at her, then the music began, and Fergus urged her to her feet.
