Page 63 of Summer Warrior

In-between bites, Gillecolum nodded enthusiastically.

As he turned to his porridge, Somerled asked Aileas, “Did you and Ruairi make a decision as to whether to stay or return to Kintyre?”

“Aye, we’ll go. We have come to love our cottage on Dunaverty Bay and, with your blessing, Ruairi wants to supervise the castle rising there. We’ll take today to see matters are in good hands here and sail tomorrow.”

Happy at their choice, Somerled said, “You and Ruairi have done well here. With you two at Dunaverty Bay, I will not worry over that castle.”

Maurice and Domnall eventually appeared in the hall, bleary-eyed and seeking food.

“Best eat fast,” said Somerled, with a wink at Aileas. “We sail within the hour.”

By then, Liadan had returned to the hall and set porridge before the two men, none too gently. “Aye, you’re late.”

Domnall gave her a remorseful look. To Somerled, it appeared his cousin was pleased she took notice.

Minutes later, Somerled, Ewan and Gillecolum stepped outside into a windy morning with a gray, cloud-filled sky that made the waters of the sound appear like slate. They walked down to the beach where his crew was just arriving, going about their chores to prepare to sail.

“Morning,” Somerled said in greeting.

Several replied with “Morning, Lord.” Their groggy voices told him they were still waking up.

A sudden movement on the water caught Somerled’s eye. He gazed beyond the beached galley into the sound. Some distance from shore, he glimpsed a longship sailing toward them. From the top of the mast flew the royal standard of Scotland, a red lion rampant on a field of bright yellow.

Watching the banner wave in the morning wind, a foreboding came over Somerled. He feared he was about to find out how dearly his alliance with the King of Scots would cost him.