Page 12 of Highland Queen

“Not yet,” I said with a grin. “But I will ride south tomorrow. When I’m gone, I want the castle closed and garrisoned.”

“Is there anything to be worried about, my lady? Any news?”

“No. No threats this far north. But I will keep Moray protected like a precious gem. When I am gone, you will watch it with your sword drawn. I don’t know how long I will stay south. Only as long as I must. I would also ask that you assemble a personal guard for me. A dozen trusted men. Can you do so?”

“Of course, my lady.”

“Thank you, Standish. And if you have any worries, please send someone to me right away. Do not hesitate.”

“Of course, Lady Gruoch. We’ll keep the castle warm and ready for you and Lord Lulach’s return.”

“Thank you, Standish. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Lady Gruoch,” he said, smiling softly. “You’re dear to all of us here.”

“As you are to me.”

“Ah, speaking of dear ones, your grumpy old stallion was out for a bit of exercise this morning. Limping but healing.”

“I’ll see to him. The blood bay I rode in on. Is he still here?”

“He is, my lady. Fine horse, that one.”

“That he is and sure of foot. I’ll ride him south. Can you see to it?”

“Very well.”

I headed through the stables to the field where Kelpie lingered not far away from the stable door. He’d lifted his leg, resting it. His ears drooped as he watched the other horses. My heart broke for him. “Are you pouting?” I called to him.

He nickered at me, but he didn’t budge.

The battle had taken a lot out of all of us. Even Thora had slept most of the time since we’d returned. I joined Kelpie, patting him on his nose, then bent to look at his leg. The wound was still covered, and I saw no signs of blood.

Sighing, I stroked Kelpie’s ear. “It is a bad wound, but you will recover. It’s time to rest, old friend. I’ll go south, and you will stay here and ogle the pretty mares.”

He nickered again then nosed my chin.

“Dear one,” I said, setting my cheek on his neck. “I’ll see you again soon.”

Feeling deep sorrow in my heart, I headed back inside. I needed to get Tira and Rhona ready. Soon we would be on the road to Scone where I would be crowned queen, a prospect, which, despite everything that had led up to it, didn’t matter to me at all.

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