Chapter Ten
Brodie and Moiraled a column of Lindsay soldiers across McAfee land. Brodie observed the familiar landscape, noting new fortifications for the upcoming struggle.
Moira surveyed their united forces. Elsa’s presence alongside the Lindsay laird hinted at the fragile coalition they’d formed. Though Moira was pleased that Elsa’s clan was joining them, she wasn’t certain the other clan fully understood what they were doing. They had to stop a monster from taking over the Highlands and changing them into something else entirely. She wasn’t even certain it could be done, but she would do everything she could to make certain no one was hurt.
Entering the keep, sounds of metal clanging and voices filled the air. They dismounted, greeted by respectful nods from nearby clansmen.
“Welcome home,” Brodie said as he steadied Moira.
“Home,” she replied. “But not to rest.”
They approached Alisdair, Fiona’s husband, who stood among other lairds. Laird Lindsay strode forward confidently and exchanged greetings with Alisdair.
“We bring strength in numbers and heart,” Laird Lindsay affirmed, followed by nods of agreement from those gathered.
Moira observed the conversation as relations began forming between clans. Beside her, Brodie stayed vigilant—aware that their choices would impact generations to come.
The Campbells, who were part of the alliance, had been longtime-enemies of the Lindsays, and they were all worried there would be some friction.
Steel clashed as Brodie helped with the training of the clans allied with the McAfees in drills, their movements a powerful dance of war. Morning mist covered the Highland grasses while Moira observed from the training field’s edge.
“They move as if long-time allies,” Fiona commented, joining Moira.
“Aye,” Moira agreed. “Old grudges set aside out of necessity.”
Ailis nodded, her dark hair catching the light. “Our common cause unites us.”
Elsa approached, her skirts rustling against tall grass. “Moira, I’ve been seeking you.”
“I’ve been watching all the clans train together,” Moira replied, introducing Elsa to Ailis and Fiona.
“Yer embroidery is impressive,” Ailis remarked, gesturing to the beautiful work on the other woman’s blouse.
“Thank ye,” Elsa said. “I take pride in me needlework.” She seemed genuinely pleased that her handiwork had been noticed.
“Our clan women share yer appreciation for craftsmanship,” Fiona added.
“With time,” Moira interjected, “we may teach ye about wielding a blade too.”
Elsa’s eyes widened with apprehension and curiosity. “Oh, I’m not sure if I—”
“Ye’ll not be alone,” Fiona assured her. “We all start somewhere, Elsa. In these times, standing up for oneself is crucial.”
“Aye,” Ailis echoed, her tone encouraging. “But let’s focus on our shared goals now.”
As they spoke, the persistent sounds of training served as a reminder of the harsh realities beyond their conversation. Moiraobserved the unyielding determination on the faces of the men—Lindsays and Campbells united against a common enemy.
As the tales of bygone feasts and misadventures echoed through the room, one couldn’t help but wonder if Ailis’ Highland cow encounter was a result of her trying to challenge the beast to a staring contest.
Elsa’s laughter seemed to suggest that maybe the cow won, and now it proudly boasts about it to all the other animals on the farm. And while Fiona and Moira’s chuckles filled the air, it was rumored that they had once tried to teach the cows a Scottish jig, much to the amusement of everyone at McAfee Keep. In that moment, it became clear that even Highland cows have a sense of humor!
“Your laughter is refreshing, Elsa,” Ailis complimented.
Elsa blushed. “And your spirit, Ailis, is as strong as the Highlands themselves.”
“I need help in the infirmary,” Ailis said earnestly. “Your needlework suggests you’d be excellent at tending wounds.”
“I would love to be of help. Are ye certain I wouldnae be in the way?” Elsa asked, surprised.
