Highlander's Magic (Highlander Heat #2)

“Donald remained aboard his galley. He’d taken the sea watch so his men could get their rest. He had no knowledge of the battle until ’twas done.”


“Did he retaliate?” Her heart sank. Highlanders would never allow such a killing to go unpaid. That much she’d learnt from history.

“First he took his slain warriors home. Angus heard about what had happened and visited Donald at Dunscaith Castle. He hoped to intervene, but Donald intended his revenge. To try to settle the issue, Angus detoured on his way home and paid a call on my brother at Duart Castle on Mull. Lachlan though wouldnae be swayed, no’ when things had always been so on edge between them. Lachlan threw Angus into his dungeons then demanded he handover his lands in the Rhinns.”

“The Rhinns on this isle’s west coast?” It was a sweep of land where wildlife thrived. She and Katherine had intended to visit there.

“Aye, near Loch Gruinart. To ensure Angus complied, my brother demanded my eldest son, James, be held as his hostage until the land transfer was complete. My bairn was five at the time. I had to send my son away, and ’twas only after I did that Angus was released.” Tears welled as she twisted her hands in her lap.

“I’m so sorry.” She rubbed Mary’s back. “What of James?”

“When Angus asked Lachlan to meet him at Mullintrea near the Rhinns to sign the transfer parchments, Lachlan used James as leverage. Angus knew Lachlan would never hand James over, no’ even after the deed was signed.”

“What did Angus do?”

“Lachlan is still my brother, and Angus was well aware Lachlan felt guilt with my marriage to him being an arranged one.” She stood and paced the room. “Angus demanded Lachlan settle their differences with honor. He treated Lachlan well for the day, but once Lachlan and his men retired to the village for the night, Angus and his warriors surrounded their longhouse. He wanted James back and knew I was becoming more distraught.”

“I can’t believe the extent of this feud, or that an innocent child was involved.”

“My brother even tried to use James as a shield. Thankfully Angus cornered him, and Lachlan finally surrendered.”

“What of James now?”

“He carries the scars of his trialing time, as well as a burning hatred for his uncle.” Tears trailed down her cheeks and she dashed them away. “Angus spared my brother’s life that night so as not to escalate the feud, though he did take the life of Terreagh MacDonald who was among Lachlan’s men. In the years since, Lachlan has continued to seek his revenge. He’s ravaged our land where he could, while Angus has plundered in return. All in the isles have felt the effects of this war.”

Poor Mary. She’d been caught right in the middle, her amulet a heavy reminder she was both MacDonald and MacLean. Two great clans at war. “What can you tell me about your amulet? I know so little about it.”

“Angus had it made and gifted to me on my wedding day. ’Twas supposed to represent the joining of both clans although that has never been achieved. I wear it because ’tis a firm reminder I belong to both. Lachlan is still my brother, and as much as I hate what he’s done, he’s kin. I wish Angus had no’ been taken by the king, nor Donald.”

What a mess. How on earth was she supposed to fix this, a feud of such massive proportions? Stupid fae. Those little folk had a lot to answer for.

“Were you aware of the king’s missive? That he wished for all three chiefs to make amends for their actions.”

“Angus never spoke of any such thing.”

“Is there anyone other than the king who could sort this feud?”

“Nay. Lachlan fights to win, and now he remains the sole aggressor. On the loose, I’m no’ sure what he’ll do.”

An ache settled between her eyes and she rubbed it. Three chiefs and a king, and she had to keep history on course. Adventure didn’t even begin to come close to describing her current mission. “Archie seems prepared to fight.”

“Neither he nor John will allow Islay to fall, nor Lachlan to live if it’s within their power.” Mary brushed her fingers over Marie’s brow. “I’ve burdened you enough for this eve. We should speak more in the morn. Would some rest aid you in sorting your thoughts?”

“Traveling back to my own time certainly would.” Though she doubted it would happen any time soon. “Thank you. You’ve given me much to consider. You should rest too. Will you be able to speak to me tomorrow?”

“Of course. Sleep well, Marie.” Mary closed the door behind her.

She leaned against the windowsill. The circle was clear, and she was here to stay. “Katherine, this adventure right now sucks, but stay safe. I’ll see to Archie’s wish, somehow and someway.” She blew a kiss. “Then I’ll get back to you. I promise I will.”

Yes, it was a promise she’d never break.