Halvard whistled softly. “Good Lord. On yer lands? Already?”
Kenneth let out a short, bitter, laugh. “Nae long past, there was a raid on the castle. Selene’s life was at risk. Other incursions have occurred over time – fishermen’s boats damaged, cattle taken. Fer months, he has been a thorn in me side. Recently, though, he has become far more dangerous.”
Halvard stroked his chin thoughtfully. “I see… the attack upon yer lady. Her safety… a dire affront indeed.”
Kenneth’s jaw tightened. “I have nay intention of forgiving him. He is dangerous, quite mad in his own way, and I cannae allow him tae threaten our people or our lands any longer. Me only hope is that he respects the king’s letter and the prospect of forfeiting his holdings. Perhaps it will compel him tae a parley.”
“If I can assist in any way, I will,” Halvard said. “I can act as an envoy. I might speak with Aidan first, on yer behalf, assessing his resolve before he meets wi’ ye. It may make him understand that ye have allies willing tae support a truce or pave the way tae dissolving this animosity.”
Kenneth inclined his head. “I am grateful, braither-in-law. It has been regrettable that yer clan and mine couldnae resolve our differences sooner. Now, with our families joined, I am heartened that the closeness of our wives may ensure that any quarrel can be swiftly addressed.”
Halvard smiled. “Indeed. Now we are kin, let our clans be bound nae by strife, but by alliance.”
Together they descended from the ramparts and retraced their steps to the study. The morning sun streamed through the tall windows, glinting off shelves crammed with tomes and manuscripts. Halvard’s eyes roamed over them.
“I admire the number of books ye possess, Kenneth. A collection I have aspired tae, though mine daesnae compare.”
Kenneth gestured toward the towering shelves. “Me faither loved books, and me maither as well. Over time, I have accumulated what I could. And, when duty permits, I read.”
Halvard chuckled. “I have found some pleasure in books meself, thanks tae Lady Elsie. Though she introduced me tae English authors, I have been surprised by the enjoyment they offer.”
Kenneth poured two drams of whisky. “Shall we share a drop tae fortify ourselves?”
Halvard nodded. “Indeed, ‘tis near enough tae noon fer a wee dram.”
As they raised their glasses, a knock sounded at the door. “Enter.” Kenneth called. Callum strode in, boots still dusted with frost.
“’Tis cold out, the snow falling fast.” He thrust his hands toward the fire.
“Callum,” Kenneth said, pouring him a dram, “I suspect ye are nae here tae speak of the weather.”
Callum took the glass gratefully. “The messenger returned with news of Aidan. Our scouts were near his encampment at first light, the fire was still warm, but he and his men had moved on.” He took a gulp of his whisky. “One man lingered, however, and through… persuasion, we learned of Aidan’s intentions.”
Kenneth’s brow rose. “What of him?”
“His resolve is more dangerous than ever. He intends tae attack before yer wedding. He knows of the impending union and plans tae seize Lady Selene, wishing tae rob ye of yer bride as he claims ye did tae him. This is nay mere threat. He is determined.”
Kenneth felt a chill despite the fire. He paced, hand to his brow. “Then our hope of peace is likely gone. If his goal is Selene, all else is secondary. We must act swiftly.”
Callum considered this. “Can ye advance the marriage, perhaps have the ceremony taenight?”
Kenneth nodded slowly. “If the ceremony occurs before his move, it may cause him tae falter in his purpose. It may be our only safeguard.”
Halvard leaned forward. “If I may assist, Kenneth, as yer envoy I am prepare tae talk with Aidan meself, or deliver any correspondence ye wish. We must show him that our clans are united.”
Kenneth’s eyes softened with gratitude. “Thank ye. Every measure is necessary tae protect what we hold dear.”
Resolute, Kenneth set down his glass, got to his feet and strode toward the door.
“I must speak with Faither Mulcahy without delay. Callum, ensure the men double the guard taenight. Nay one enters without me knowledge. Halvard, yer counsel has been invaluable. Prepare whatever measures ye can. One last thing – let nay mention of Aidan reach the ears of our lasses. It will dae nay good tae destroy their joy and replace it with fear.”
The two men exchanged nods as Kenneth stepped through the door and closed it behind him. He moved with long, purposeful strides along the corridor, down the stairs, and out into the chill air making his way toward the chapel. He crossed the cobbled courtyard, the cold from the stones biting through his boots, the chill seeping into his bones.
Inside the candlelit chapel he found Father Mulcahy by the altar, his vestments laid out carefully. The faint smell of wax and incense hung in the air.
The priest looked up in surprise as Kenneth approached along the aisle.
“What brings ye here at this time, lad?” he enquired.
