Moira met Fiona’s gaze, her resolve unwavering. “Father will understand, in time. He taught us to fight for what we believe,to protect our clan at all costs. This is our chance to prove ourselves, to show that we are every bit as capable as any man.” She sighed. “But as much as I ken ye want to join us, the bairn ye carry is more important. And Ailis is right about staying behind to heal any who are injured. I am the only one of the three of us who can go. And I will lead the men well.”
Ailis sighed, the weight of their decision heavy on her shoulders. “Aye, but what if ye fail? What if our actions only bring more suffering to our people?”
Moira’s eyes flashed with determination. “We willnae fail. We carry the strength of our ancestors in our veins, and we will not let them down.” There could be no failure. The clan had always held strong, and they always would.
Fiona nodded, her blonde hair glinting in the torchlight. “Then it’s settled. We will gather our allies, and Moira, ye will lead them as they slip out under cover of darkness, and strike at the heart of the enemy. I wish I could go, but ye must wield yer sword while Ailis and I stay behind.” She laid a palm against her still-flat belly.
*
Moira’s shadow stretchedalong the stone walls of McAfee Keep as she searched for her father, Duncan. Her steps echoed in the hallway leading to his study. She pushed the door open forcefully, finding him hunched over scattered parchments on an old oak table. She had no desire to defy her father’s wishes. Instead, she would reason with him—warrior to warrior.
“Father,” Moira began, her voice unwavering. “I need to be part of our defense.”
Duncan looked up, his eyes reflecting the firelight. “We’ve already had this discussion. Ye are me daughter, not a warrior.”
“Yetaughtme to be a warrior,” she retorted. “And I won’t stand idly by while our kin fight for their lives.” She crossed her arms over her chest, refusing to give in to him.
“Moira, it’s no’ yer place—”
“Is it me place to wait for death or dishonor?” she interrupted. “I’ve planned and prepared defenses.”
He rose from his chair slowly. “And what of the danger?”
“Better than most,” she said confidently. “Ye trained me to lead and protect our lands. Let me do so.” It made no sense that he didn’t want her to fight when he’d raised her to be a warrior, not a simpering maiden.
The laird studied Moira before sighing and nodding. “Very well but promise me you’ll guard your life as fiercely as our lands.”
“I swear it,” she replied with determination. She wasn’t certain if her father had merely acquiesced because she begged, or because he believed she could help. Either way, Moira was thrilled she would have the chance to fight in a real battle and not just compete in games.
The clan had gathered in the great hall, waiting for news. As Moira stepped onto the dais, all eyes turned to her.
“We stand upon the precipice of war,” Moira declared. “I vow before ye this day—I will fight beside you.”
Their fear was replaced by determination as they cheered in agreement. Moira’s promise was more than words. It marked her transformation into one of their leaders, ready to defend her clan—and all the Highlands—at any cost.
