Page 68 of Highland Queen

“Of course,” Druanne replied. She went to her cases sitting near the bed. She dipped into her box and pulled out a number of pouches. I watched her as she worked, recognizing some of the herbs. She was grinding herbs to help Madelaine sleep and to calm her mind. She wore them down into a fine powder then mixed the concoction in water. She handed the drink to Madelaine. “Drink it all.”

Madelaine took the cup and mutely drank.

I passed Druanne a grateful look.

She inclined her head to me then went to clean up her tools.

Ute returned not long after, carrying a tray.

“Lady Gruoch,” she said, motioning behind her.

I rose.

Killian stood in the hallway. “Lady Gruoch,” he said.

I followed Killian into the hallway, closing the door behind me.

“Killian, thank you for seeing them safely here.”

He nodded. “I would have returned to escort you back. I wish you had waited.”

“I was safe. But thank you.”

“I am sorry about your friend. I remember him from Moray. He was there with Lord Lulach. He seemed to be a good man.”

“He was.”

“Do you need anything? Is there anything I can do for you…Gruoch?” he said, reaching out to gently take my hand.

I was so surprised by the gesture, I didn’t know what to say. “I… No, Killian. Thank you,” I said, pulling my hand back. “We will leave in a few days. Take some rest.”

He inclined his head. “If there is anything you need or want, please don’t hesitate to ask me.”

“Thank you.”

Leaving him, I returned to the chamber. Uald had poured us all a glass of mead. “Let’s toast,” Uald said, lifting her glass. “To Tavis, a fine man, companion, a great hunter, and a friend.”

Madelaine choked back a sob.

“To Tavis,” we said, lifting our drinks.

Mindful of my little one, I sipped just a little in Tavis’ honor.

Uald polished off her drink then set her cup own. She turned to Druanne. “Another?”

Druanne shook her head. “No. I need to get some sleep. I confess I’m weary.”

“If you’re ready, my lady, I can escort you to your chamber,” Ute told her.

Druanne rose. She went to Madelaine and wrapped her arms around her, squeezing her tight. Afterward, she departed with Ute.

“What about you?” I asked Uald. “Maybe you should rest as well.”

“No. I’ll stay here with Madelaine and finish this bottle,” she said, lifting the jug of mead.

Madelaine smiled weakly. “You’ll be on the floor by morning.”

“Your floor looks softer than my bed. I can’t remember the last time I was in this castle.”

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