From Envy to Wrath

By Kathryn Perez and Katie Spears

Nothing is stronger than family love. Or, that is what Angelica believed growing up in a large family with her father, Lord of the lands, her mother, sisters and brothers. The young lady found herself in the worst kind of situation when a rival clan attacked their castle. Fires broke out across the bailey, arrows consumed in fire flew over the castle walls and struck piles of hay, stables, workshops and homes inside the protective walls.

 

Angelica heard cries for help and opened the door of a small crofter's hut nearby, just to have a backflash of flame lick outward from the building, catching her hair and gown on fire. Though she screamed for help, everyone ran around, too busy to hear her.

 

Scarred and hideous, she vowed to give herself to the church. A neighboring lord rode with her father. His brothers at his side. His intent was to answer a call from the King to visit in the hopes of finding a bride to make an heir for his own lands. While Angelica's trip to the abbey was the main purpose, Adi, Angelica's eldest sister, wished to ride too, since they would be going to court.

 

Things go from bad to worse as Adi continued to sabotage her sister on the ride to court before the abbey. Though their father wished to take Angelica to the abbey first, Adi convinced the entorage to first ride to the abbey.

 

Accusations of witchcraft begin to surround Angelica, by no fault of her own. Perils meet her nearly the entire visit to the court, before, and even after. Would she survive the accusations and find herself nicely placed at the abbey, or did God and fate have a different plan for her?

• Language: English
• Publisher: WiLi Publishing
• Release date: May 16, 2021
• ISBN: 9798201901257

Book preview

Introduction

Blazing arrows soared over the curtain wall’s northern edge, illuminating the starless night. None inside the castle paid heed at first; the main attack coming from the east. Shouting, sword clashes, and screams preceded villagers running through the gates into the keep and outlying buildings.

Run, Angelica! Get buckets! someone shouted to the young maiden.

Mysie? Is that ye? she called as she ran to the well to fetch water. Where are ye?

Near the blacksmith, ye fobbing minnow! Can ye nae see the fire? Mysie, usually impatient, showed her disdain for her younger sister.

Angelica swallowed her retort and ran toward the blacksmith’s cottage with the water.

Oh! Ye took so long! Now look what ye’ve done! Mysie screamed at her younger sister.

I cannae be in all places, ye ken? Angelica tried to defend herself.

Ye are always too late for everything! Adi cried after her. The blacksmith willnae be able tae shoe me horse on the ‘morrow if the building burns! she scolded Angelica.

Well, lasses, if that ‘tis all ye are fretting o’er then all will be well, indeed. Munroe Baird, Angelica’s eldest brother rested his palm softly on Angelica’s shoulder. I dinnae see ye two with buckets, and yet ye kenned of the fire afore our wee sister, aye? he scolded his other sisters.

Adi, demure, looked ashamed, though only in her behavior, not in her expression. "The whelp shouldnae take so long.

Munroe, ye ken she is always late."

Munroe stepped away from the burning cottage, pulling Angelica with him, ignoring his sister’s insults. Dinnae ye fash, lovely. Ye arenae the problem this day, he told Angelica.

Angelica opened her mouth to defend her perpetual lateness, but Munroe interrupted her.

I ken ‘tis the fault of those women that ye are always late. I ken they ne’er tell ye when tae be where ye are tae be. She smiled, thankful to her eldest brother and heir to the Baird holdings.

Munroe, I truly thank ye for coming tae me aid. Dinnae ye have things of more import tae attend? We are, after all, under attack.

Aye, we are, but so were ye. Stay close tae me, wee sister. I will protect ye and Baird castle. He nodded as he darted ahead. Do yer best tae stay near, he called behind him.

Angelica stopped her forward motion. Angelica did not intend to become a distraction while her father, brothers, and soldiers fought off the attacking clan. She began to rush through the castle grounds, looking for injured men or women she could help.

Help! Help! She heard from another building now caught on fire.

I am coming! she called out as she ran toward the burning hut. She cried into the small cottage Come. Can ye hear me voice? Come tae it! she said but did not hear anyone return her plea. She stood for a minute, watching the fire dance across the roof. She studied it and tried to decide if it would be safe to enter. Instead, of thinking long, however, she pulled the door open and a flash of flame poured through the door, catching her hair on fire.

Angelica pulled back and screamed, batting at the flames melting her hair and scorching her skin. Her gown began to smolder from the flames licking the fabric. Help me! she screamed, but no one heard her. Help me, she sobbed as she fell to the ground in the bailey. The fire extinguished when she fell to the dirt, but it did not stop the damage. Severe burns marred Angelica’s pretty face and part of her upper-left torso.

Adi walked slowly from behind the burning building. She had a smirk on her face. She had done what she set out to do, jealous of her older brother’s attention and protection toward her youngest sister, she started a fire and drew Angelica near. She turned and walked away from Angelica, ignoring her sister’s plight.

Chapter One

Two months later.

Angelica stood in front of the mirror in her room. She brushed her hair and tried to find a style to cover the left side of her face. Her horrible scars and damaged hair made her incredibly sad. None would wish to wed her; she was so badly deformed and disfigured.

Her sisters did not let her forget it, either. Her eldest sister, Adi and her second sister, Mysie were so very beautiful with long, blonde curls and sparkling blue eyes. They looked very much like their mother, Elaine.

Angelica had taken her coloring and appearance from her father, Niven. His brown hair and eyes were unremarkable. She was a very small girl with no feminine curves even though considered a woman at ten and five years. Her olive skin was not fair like her sisters’ pearly complexions.

Angelica, dearling, are ye coming down? Munroe, her eldest brother, asked through her closed door.

Aye, brother. I will be there soon, she said as she turned back to the mirror. She picked up a light yellow, partially sheer scarf and draped it over her face, held in place on top of her head by a small gold circlet. She pulled and manipulated the scarf, so she would not need to move it to eat, but so it hid the hideous scar on her left cheek.

Her clothing was modest, with long sleeves and a high neckline to hide scars marking her shoulder and part of her chest. She was aware of the discolored skin; the damage would never go away.

Munroe knocked on her door again. Angelica squeaked and jumped with surprise. Her brother asked, Are ye decent? Aye, come in. She turned toward the opening door.

Lass, ye dinnae need cover yer face in shame. I ken, as do all of us, that ye wouldnae ha’ been burned if ye hadnae tried tae help others during the attack. The fire burned ye as ye tried tae save others. We truly believe ye are still as bonny as e’er.

Nae all think me bonny, she whispered then changed the subject. But there werenae people in the cottage. Ye said so, yerself.

Aye, but ye heard someone shouting for help. Mayhap they got out through the back of the cottage, or a window. Ye should be proud of what ye tried tae do, nae ashamed.

Angelica lifted her left hand and touched the scar on her cheek. Ye are right, but all stare at me. I mean, they always did stare, I amnae a beauty like our sisters, but now everyone stares as though they pity me. Adi and Mysie always remind me how hideous I am. She turned away and brushed tears from her eyes.

Munroe rushed to her side. He wrapped a loving arm around her shoulders. Ye are a bonny lass. Anyone who says different isnae looking at ye. Angelica, love, ye are much more than what ye see in the mirror. Ye have a kind soul and a beautiful heart. I ken any mon of honor would see beyond the scar on yer face tae the truth o’ who ye are. He kissed her on the forehead and offered her his arm.

Come, we need eat. Without ye, the food willnae be served.

Angelica took his arm and nodded, keeping the scarf covering her left cheek.

The pair entered the great hall. Ah, there ye are, me daughter! her father, Lord Niven Baird, stood as they walked through the door. He frowned when he saw Angelica wearing a veil over her face.

Adi leaned over to Mysie. There she is. The little princess, late again, she hissed to her younger sister.

Mysie sneered and nodded.

Whatcher whispering over there? Innes, the youngest of five and second to the lord’s seat asked his sisters.

Oh, naught. We were just sharing our thoughts, Mysie said.

Innes looked at his eldest sisters suspiciously but shrugged. What could he truly do? He was only ten and four and no threat to his sisters. He felt it best to stay out of their way.

Angelica smiled shyly at her family when escorted to the seat of honor. Angelica, love, today is a grand day for ye. Oh? she asked her mother.

Aye. Today ye leave for St. Christus tae begin yer journey tae God.

How joyful! Adi said. "Ye will make a verra fine nun,

Angelica," she gave a small series of claps, though she fooled nobody with her gesture.

Mysie nodded. Aye. Ye willnae need worry about God shaming ye over yer face or yer body. He has many other women tae help him see beauty.

Munroe shot the sisters a glare and they stopped talking at once. Elaine and Niven were busy speaking to Angelica and did not hear the spiteful tone of their other two daughters.

Adi, when did yer betrothed say he would be arriving? Angelica asked.

Adi choked on the cider she had put to her mouth. She did not have a betrothed, and at a score and one years, many considered her an old maid. None had offered for her hand.

Nay, sweet Angelica. Ye ken I am waiting for the right mon, she said, overly kind as she sneered behind her cup.

Angelica nodded to Munroe when he grinned at her. Careful lass, she has talons, nae just claws, he whispered to her.

The siblings stopped speaking to each other when Angelica spoke up.

Maman, Papa, who is tae take me tae the abbey?

"We expect a Highland lord tae arrive this morn’, then we will ride out together. We have business in Edinburgh and ‘tis on the way. Once Lord McCormick gets here, we will leave.

Are ye packed?" Niven asked.

Aye, Papa. I amnae taking anything, am I? I thought the abbey would provide me with my needs.

Och, aye. ‘Tis truth. Howbeit, if ye wish tae write, I suspicion ye should bring parchment and quills. They are expensive, and I suspicion the abbess willnae have such for ye.

I will, Maman. She nodded. Once they finished breaking their fast, Angelica returned to her room, Innes, her youngest brother, followed.

Angelica, ye cannae leave me! If ye go, then Adi and Mysie will be even more horrible! Yer kind heart and sharp mind are all that keep those two women under control! he cried.

Angelica turned to her younger brother and hugged his neck. Even though she was a year his senior, he had recently grown over a foot in height to tower over her like the rest of the family. Dinnae fash, Innes. Ye can always write me and I will tell ye what tae say tae stop their endless remarks. She kissed him on the cheek and stepped into her room.

I still dinnae ken why ye put that thing o’er yer face, Angelica. Ye are bonny and we love ye. ‘Tis naught but pride ye should be feeling for trying tae save the lives of others.

Aye, but I wasnae helping anyone. There were naught tae save, she said again.

‘Tis been two months, me sweet sister. Ye ken that yer wounds are all healed. The scar will fade. God doesnae care about that wee mark on yer cheek and neither do we, he said as he brushed the back of his fingertips across the scarf hiding most of her scar.

Angelica nodded and left her chamber with her younger brother. Come, Innes. Let us take one more walk in the garden. The ducks are there and waiting for their bread.

Innes pulled something from his pocket, showing crumbling, hard bread from the table. Ye are prepared, even! Angelica said and hugged her brother again. Let us go!

They raced from her chamber, down the stairs, and across the corridor, past the great hall, to the entryway for the keep. They jumped from the top of the steps to the ground, clearing six stairs on their descent. They ran around the corner of the keep to the right and stopped at the edge of the garden, out of breath.

They laughed and tried to regain their composure before they walked into the garden and toward the duck pond in the center, near hyacinth and oleander blooms.

I love this part of the garden! she exclaimed when she sat on a bench near the water’s edge.

Quack, quack, Innes called to the ducks. They also took a walk through the garden. He tossed a small piece of bread onto the surface of the pond and two ducks padded over, jumped into the water, and swam to the tasty treat.

Innes added another chunk of bread for the second duck.

Angelica clapped and giggled while the ducks battled for the bread. They stuck their heads in the water, their tiny duck tails sticking upright and wiggling. ‘Tis such fun tae watch them do that. I will miss these ducklings when I leave, she said. ...and I will miss ye, Angelica, Innes said, a tear

threatening to form in his eye.

Angelica pouted but would not let her brother see. It will be well, Innes. Mayhap ye should join the monks? she teased which prompted Innes to poke her under the arm and make her laugh.

They finished feeding the ducks and sat watching them for a while, enjoying the breeze and the floral scents in the garden.

As they sat there in companionable silence, a shadow overcame them. Innes blocked the sun’s rays with his hand and looked up into the scowling face of his older sisters. What do ye want? he asked.

Manners, little brother. Ye ken once ugly Angelica is gone, we will have naught tae speak on except for ye. Mysie’s words oozing, sickly-sweet, from her lips.

Angelica isnae near as ugly as yer heart, sister. I willnae have ye speaking of her as such. One day, I will be important and ye will regret how ye treated us, Innes said.

Adi tossed her head back and laughed. Och, ye are a silly thing. Ye will ne’er be of more import than I, little brother. Ye will always be the heir who doesnae have lands, Adi said, and Innes’s cheeks turned very red. Papa would do well tae foster ye out tae another clan that needs a strong young mon without a future.

Go on now. Why do ye have tae be so cruel? What did Innes, or I for that matter, e’er do tae ye tae make ye hate us so? Angelica said in defense of her younger brother.

Och, ye havenae done a thing, little sister, the words poured off Mysie’s tongue like thick honey. ‘Tis just that ye are. Munroe, Adi and I are bonny with our golden locks and our bright blue eyes. Ye and Innes are naught but mud. She laughed as she stepped beside the two.

Adi picked up a large stone, and as they took several steps beyond the pond, she tossed it back. The stone landed in the water with a thud, creating a large splash, scaring the ducks, and soaking Angelica’s skirt.

Come on, Mysie, we have things of greater import tae do than waste our time on the Baird waifs, Adi said. They hooked their arms together and walked away, tittering and giggling.

"Ooh, if I was just as bonny as them, or older, or cleverer, or

just nae me!" Angelica seethed as Innes and she walked back toward the keep.

Angelica, dinnae let those two bother ye. Ye are going tae be on God’s better side verra soon, Innes said, holding her arm and trying to calm her.

Aye, ye are right, Innes, she said, took a deep breath, and smiled, yet her eyes held sadness. Angelica was only choosing a life at the abbey because she felt none would wish to wed her with the scars which riddled her body.

Angelica and Innes spent the rest of the early morning together, walking and staying as far from their sisters as they could. On occasion, they would see the two women giggling and talking behind their hands.

Angelica and Innes walked past the newly constructed tanner’s cottage. She recalled the pain from the fire when she ran to it during the attacks. She shuddered as she placed her hand on the door frame.

Ye ken ye did what ye thought was right, sister. There isnae a kinder, more gentle spirit than ye. God will be thanking us in Heaven for loaning ye tae Him, he said.

Angelica smiled sadly and raised her left hand to her cheek.

At that moment, a guard at the gatehouse shouted across the baily. Riders approach!

Angelica glanced toward Innes. Both had the same idea. They would run to the gate and welcome their visitors.

Four men rode quickly through the gate. They wore red and green plaid. Angelica was excited; she knew time was approaching for her to leave for her new life as a nun. Innes was apprehensive, too, but for a different reason; he would miss his sister.

I wonder where they come from? she asked Innes. They look so...barbaric! the best word she could find. Mayhap they would foster ye, Innes. They look strong and fine.

The men who rode through the gate looked forward, concentrating on the keep, all, but one man. He had auburn hair and hazel eyes, captivating and soul-catching if he looked at you long enough. The powerful man looked toward the siblings. His manner proved his authority, one which came from being in control. Angelica shuddered under the force of the man’s stare.

Did ye see them? Innes asked in awe.

Hmm? Angelica asked. She watched the man with the auburn hair and stern expression while they rode through the gate and toward the keep.

Hurry, Innes. Let us go and see who they are! Angelica said as she started running toward the keep; Innes right behind her in pursuit. I suspicion they are our noble escorts tae the abbey!

I wonder if they are as fierce as they look?" Angelica asked.

They likely are, sister, Innes answered while they continued to run.

Tàmhas McCormick rode through the gate with Muir and Shaw, his brothers, and the McCormick first, Roynald McCrory. They came to escort Lord Baird, the Baird heir and young Angelica Baird to St. Christus and stop in Edinburgh on their return. Tàmhas did not look forward to the trip, he knew the king expected a report on whether he found a suitable bride.

Ahh, Lord McCormick. Welcome tae our humble castle, Niven said as he stepped from within the keep with his pretty bride on his arm. His two eldest daughters were directly behind their parents.

Did ye see the arms on that mon? Adi said of Tàmhas McCormick.

Mysie whispered back Aye, though ye should see the bonny eyes on that mon behind him! speaking of Tàmhas’s elder, younger brother, Muir.

Tàmhas heard what Adi said, but none heard Mysie, the voices buzzed with so many speaking at once. Tàmhas looked over Adi. She was a beautiful young woman. Her golden hair combed to a shine, and her blue eyes sparkled with life. He thought he could offer for her hand right away and avoid travel to Edinburgh and the king’s scrutiny.

He did not speak, however; he wanted to know more about the woman before he asked for a betrothal. He was a hard man and expected obedience in his life, from his brothers, his charges, and he would expect nothing less in a bride.

Lord Baird. Tàmhas nodded after he dismounted and handed his reins to a stable boy who had run forward. Come in, come in. Niven invited the four men into the keep but noted only Tàmhas stepped forward, the others stood fast.

I dinnae expect ye tae stand outside. Ye must come in and refresh yerselves. How many days did ye ride? Niven asked Lord McCormick.

It took us four days of riding, M’ Lord. Tàmhas bowed to Lord Baird.

Please, call me Niven. We will be riding the next six days and we should use more familiar names. Otherwise, all we’ll hear is M’ Lord this, and M’ Lord that. T’will get maun confusing! he laughed, and his wife smiled at his joke. Tàmhas cocked his eyebrow, and his eyes sparkled but his smile did not reach his mouth.

Niven coughed awkwardly.

Just as they reached the top of the stairs, Innes and Angelica were behind them. Papa, are these the men who will be taking us tae St. Christus? Angelica asked.

Something about the ring in her voice caught the attention of two of the McCormick men. Shaw stopped and turned toward the sound, smiling at the small girl standing at the foot of the steps. It was Tàmhas McCormick, however, who caught the small girl’s attention.

She smiled up at the men and Tàmhas found he momentarily lost his breath. He wondered what she hid behind the scarf she wore hanging from a small circlet atop her head to the center of her throat. The mystery of the wee lass with the bright, brown eyes intrigued him.

Tàmhas nodded to the girl and Shaw stepped back from the top and took her arm. M’ Lady. I be Shaw McCormick. I am honored tae be one of yer escorts tae yer Godly destination. He smiled shyly, and she looked at him in surprise.

Tàmhas coughed to get his brother’s attention before they stepped into the keep, walking directly to the dais holding the family table.

Everyone sit, please! I have prepared a small meal for us afore we set out. Please introduce yerselves, Niven ordered gently.

I be Innes Baird. Me da ‘tis the lord here. I am his second heir. Munroe ‘tis next in line. He will be here shortly. The lass that mon is clinging to... He directed all attention to Angelica and Shaw " ‘Tis me sister Angelica. Me mum, Elaine, and me

Da, Niven."

"I am Tàmhas McCormick, laird of McCormick castle, deep in the Highlands. I brought me brothers, Muir, and Shaw. Shaw be the mon who isnae releasing the wee lass, Muir is the one with the permanent smile. The other mon ‘tis Roynald

McCrory, me first."

Now that all the introductions... ahem Elaine spoke but was interrupted by a weak cough. Her eldest daughter stood very near Tàmhas, with her hand lightly on his shoulder, and the other daughter stood very near Muir.

Och, it seems we forgot our other daughters. ‘Tis Adi and Mysie Elaine said as she gestured to each of the daughters. Tàmhas nodded politely and removed the woman’s hand from his shoulder. Muir looked at Mysie and smiled.

Verra nice tae meet ye ladies, Muir said; Tàmhas did not speak to the women, but he directed his attention back to Angelica and Shaw.

Ye will be letting the lass go at some point, aye, Shaw? he asked.

Shaw looked at his arm as though he did not realize he still held Angelica’s hand. He released her hand from his and she pulled herself away quickly, adjusting her veil so it better hid the burn on her cheek.

Niven clapped, and maids and servants approached the table with trenchers full of a variety of light food items. They served fruits and white cheese and thinly sliced bread. I dinnae ken if ye had eaten. We broke our fast nae two hours past, so we willnae be hungry. Please, do eat yer fill, he told the guests.

The McCormick party ate all they could hold. They were indeed hungry, not having eaten since the night before. We were in a hurry tae arrive. Dinnae have time tae snare a rabbit or other game. Thank ye for thinking of us, Tàmhas said as he took a deep swig of ale.

Adi kept staring at Tàmhas as though she had never seen a man before, and Mysie was intent upon competing for one man’s attention. She reached under the table and grabbed Muir by the thigh. Muir jumped but did not remove her hand. He did, however, speak. Yer daughters are maun friendly, M’ Lord, he said to Niven who smiled slightly and nodded to his daughter. She removed her hand but looked unabashed.

Tell me, lass, Tàmhas directed his attention toward the now released Angelica. Are ye tae become a nun or are ye paying a penance? he asked.

I am the third daughter, M’ Lord. I go tae do God’s work. I have naught tae pay penance for. I am a maiden and have done all I can tae follow God’s law, she said modestly.

Then why would a bonny lass like ye, with so much life and energy, choose a life with nuns and God? Dinnae ye wish tae have bairns? Shaw asked this question.

Och, aye. I would truly wish tae have bairns. ‘Tis not me lot in life, howbeit. ‘Tis me duty tae be a wife of God, she said, not wishing to discuss her true reason for choosing to join the abbey.

Oh, she is unsightly. No mon would have her, Adi said to Shaw when Angelica would not answer directly.

Angelica fumbled with her fingers, avoiding the stares. Thankfully, Munroe chose that moment to enter the hall, directing attention from Angelica.

Ah, there ye are. Tàmhas McCormick, ‘tis me son and heir, Munroe, Niven said.

Munroe approached the table, nodded to his father, bent over, and kissed his mother on the cheek. He continued down the table and gave Shaw McCormick a look which told him he needed to move away from Angelica. Shaw did move, and Munroe took his seat, leaning toward his sister and kissing her on the forehead. Angelica, McCormick’s, M’ Lord, he said as he tried to greet all at the table.

Again ahem came.

Munroe ignored his other sisters and began conversing with the visiting lord. "Lord McCormick, I heard ye are traveling tae

Edinburgh tae speak with the king."

Aye. King James has decided ‘tis time for me tae find a bride. He wishes tae hear of me progress, Tàmhas answered, prompting Adi to scoot closer to Tàmhas on the bench.

Tàmhas ignored the woman outwardly but thought about how overbearing and pushy she was. He was not impressed.

Angelica saw what her sister was doing and nudged her older brother, nodding toward the other sister.

Adi, I see ye are being demure again, Munroe said, promptly causing Adi to seethe, turn red, and move from Tàmhas all at once. Munroe nodded then. ‘Tisnae seemly tae thrust yerself on a mon. I ken ye dinnae wish tae be seen a spinster, but truth be told, ye are near one, he added insult to injury.

Adi stood at that moment and nodded to Mysie who was reluctant to leave the bonny man she found for herself. I willnae sit here and be insulted, she huffed and stormed away from the table, her younger sister following behind obediently.

Me apologies, M’ Lord, Elaine said. Ye ken the way of brothers and sisters? she asked.

I only have brothers, M’ Lady, but I ken they can be a handful, too. He nodded but did not smile. Instead, he stole another glance toward Angelica who sat quietly beside her older brother. He saw how much her brothers protected her, but they did not seem to show the same protective tendencies toward the other sisters. He thought the gesture noble of the heir and wondered what would prompt such protection.

I wonder why Lady Angelica, if she is such a prize, is giving herself tae the church? Wouldnae she be a prize in clan politics? Tàmhas asked, and Shaw nodded. She seems intelligent, obedient, and charming. And she is a bonny lass.

We wanted her tae grow tae be a fine woman, wed, and have bairns. ‘Tis Angelica’s choice tae become a nun, Elaine gave the answer. Ye see...

Maman, ‘tisnae important—the reasons, Angelica broke in, silencing her mother. Angelica’s cheeks turned red around the yellow of the veil.

Me apologies, Lady Angelica. ‘Tis me fault. I ask too many questions, I suppose, Tàmhas said sincerely.

Angelica nodded and felt the need to look away. Her cheeks were still red, but now it was not from her mother nearly giving away her secret, but by the way Tàmhas could not take his eyes from her. If I may be excused. I wish tae ensure my chamber is in order, she said and stood.

We will see ye in a few moments, love? her father asked.

Angelica nodded.

Once Angelica was out of the great hall, Innes stepped to Tàmhas’s side. Please be kind tae Angelica. She is a loving and kind woman and she is naught what she appeared here. She is, as ye say, intelligent, and she is maun thoughtful. She is clever, as well. Me sister is me best friend and I would love tae see her happy, he told the much older and larger man. Innes then leaned forward I dinnae think she is happy this day.

Tàmhas looked at Innes with a confused look on his face, his eyebrows lifting in question.

Munroe nodded his agreement to what he heard Innes say.

I vow, young laird, I willnae do, nor say, anything that will make yer sister unhappy. I merely asked why a bonny woman so obviously full of life and spirit would wish tae hide away in an abbey when there are so many that would love tae have her at their side.

Tàmhas looked at Niven. "Has she been presented tae the

King?"

Nay. She willnae allow it. We tried.

Why does she wear the veil? Did I see a scar beneath? Was she marked at birth? Tàmhas asked.

Nay, she was badly burned in a fire two-months past. The scar ‘tis still fresh and I suspicion the air still hurts it some, Elaine said quietly, hoping her youngest daughter did not come back in and hear her.

Tàmhas was surprised, and Shaw gasped. Muir was listening but not really hearing. He was paying attention to the great hall’s accoutrements.

Her bonny face has been scarred then? Shaw asked, feeling very sheepish after he asked.

Aye, but I suspicion it will get better with time. She believes herself ruined for a mon. tae me, she is as bonny as the day she was born, Munroe added.

Tàmhas studied the Baird men. None of them seemed to care one whit about the scars on Angelica’s face. That intrigued him more.

He knew she would not be suitable for him, however. She had too much spirit, he wanted a woman who would do as he expected, when he expected, with no trouble. When his thought rejected her, his heart seemed to kick him in the chest.

Well, if ye are ready, I suspicion we should be off. ‘Tis o’er two days tae St. Christus, Muir said, wiping his mouth on the back of his arm.

Aye, I agree, Innes said and stood.

Nay, lad, ye arenae going, Niven said.

I willnae see me sister once she is with the church, and I would like tae go with ye, da, Innes implored his father and looked at Munroe for support.

Nay, little brother. Someone needs tae stay and watch o’er mum and other sisters, Munroe said but he was frowning; he would like to take his brother, so he would have relief from their cruel sisters.

I suspicion ‘tis fair, Innes said and lowered his head as he walked from the great hall. Ye will be back in six days, aye? he asked his father.

Niven nodded before he finished the ale in his mug. Sorry I am, son, tae make ye stay behind, but I do wish tae keep a Baird on the throne in me absence, and we need Munroe’s strong arm.

Aye, Papa. I ken, and I respect yer wishes, Innes said while he walked from the great hall.

When the McCormick men, Niven and Munroe mounted aside Angelica, they rode outward at once. At the gate, the men heard a woman’s voice calling after them. Adi rode rapidly on a horse of her own. Papa, I would like tae also escort Angelica tae St. Christus. I wish tae bid her a fond farewell, and I would also like tae say my prayers, she said sweetly. Plus, I have ne’er been tae Edinburgh. I would very much enjoy seeing the king’s castle.

I dinnae ken, Adi. I havenae e’er seen ye so interested in travel afore, Niven told his eldest daughter.

She pouted and looked quite put out. But Papa! I have packed me clothes and am already on me horse. Ye wouldnae need wait on me, she said.

Well, I dinnae see any trouble with ye riding along, Niven remarked. Munroe grimaced, and Angelica looked away, so none noted her disdain.

The McCormick men looked at her with guarded expressions, not wishing to be disrespectful to Lady Adi. Tàmhas shrugged. As long as ye dinnae cause us delay, he said. Adi smiled widely as though she was going along at Tàmhas’s invitation.

I thank ye, Lord McCormick, she said and fluttered her eyelashes. Still, Tàmhas did not respond with words or expression.

Angelica, however, nearly laughed at her sister’s blatant attempt at flirting with the lord.

Adi, I am glad ye are coming along, Angelica said. We will be ever so close, ye and I, she said and budged up between Adi’s and Tàmhas’s horses. Angelica smiled sweetly at Adi, and Tàmhas looked at her with renewed appreciation.

Shall we, then? Munroe asked as they all pointed toward the gate and rode out on their way to St. Christus.

Chapter Two

They rode for only two hours before Adi began complaining about the weather. ‘Tis so cold! she exclaimed.

Adi, ‘tis October. Ye ken ‘tis the time when the winds blow from the north, Niven said.

Aye, Papa, I ken. I was hoping for it tae be warmer, howbeit, as we are riding south.

We are still in Scotland, lass, Tàmhas told her abruptly and tossed an extra plaid to her. Wrap this around ye. T’will be warm enough.

Angelica rolled her eyes and sighed heavily. She wore a gown and cloak, just as Adi, though she felt no discomfort.

Oh, Adi said as she took the plaid. How verra generous of ye, Lord McCormick, she fawned as she leaned over and rested her fingertips on his thigh, glancing toward Angelica to ensure she saw the gesture. Tàmhas’s muscles twitched, rejecting her touch; at the same moment, his horse felt the signal and pulled to the right, away from the woman’s horse.

Munroe rode nearer Tàmhas’s right and began a conversation he knew would bore Adi. Lord McCormick, I understand ye are from the Highlands. How are things there? Do all swear fealty tae King James?

Oh, nae all, but I do. King James has been verra good tae me and me clan. We were under siege just two months past... he briefly glanced toward Angelica then continued ...and King James sent us reinforcements. The Campbell is always looking tae fight us for our lands. Greedy buggers, he added. Munroe laughed.

Aye, we had our own siege two months past. I suspect when the kings changed from James the first tae James the second there was a bit of unrest, Munroe said.

But ye fought well, brother, Angelica added. Ye dinnae get a scratch on ye, and ye kept Papa and Innes safe as well as our entire castle.

Munroe looked abashedly as Angelica spoke highly of him.

Angelica, lass, ye dinnae have tae go on so, he said.

Och, Munroe, ye ken ‘tis truth, Angelica said.

Nay, lass, ye are the one who helped our wounded in the bailey and responded tae e’ery call for help, Munroe told Angelica.

Angelica stopped talking, her cheeks reddened. Adi looked at her younger sister with daggers. She thought she could make things more difficult for Angelica, but it was not working in her favor. Instead, she changed her methods. She knew Angelica was self-conscious of the scars on her face, and she only brought the clothing on her back. If she could get the men to agree to go to Edinburgh first, she could shame Angelica further.

Papa. Mayhap we could go first tae Edinburgh and onward tae St. Christus tae deliver Angelica? Neither of us has been tae court, Adi asked her father.

Tàmhas kept his expressionless demeanor, as did Shaw. Muir nodded his agreement of the plan and Roynald balked but would do what his lord commanded.

I dinnae ken, lass. Angelica? What say ye? ‘Tis fer ye we travel, Niven asked.

T’would nae be any different if I were there in two days or in four, she said and shrugged.

Lord McCormick? What say ye? Munroe asked.

I wouldnae mind getting the king’s business over and done, Tàmhas said and Muir, again, nodded. Shaw also nodded this time. He was excited to go to court. Living in the Highlands limited their travel to the south and Edinburgh. Tàmhas was not very happy when the king commanded him to court.

Angelica thought, I will just stay tae the chambers while Lord McCormick tends tae his business and Papa and Munroe tae theirs. I willnae need show tae the court a’ tall.

Thank ye, Papa, Adi said and smiled. Her father nodded, and Munroe scowled at his sister, once again. He wanted to figure out her game.

The group stopped after the noon hour to rest their horses and wash. There was a small stream near their site and the women walked upstream to gain some privacy.

Oh, I will be so happy tae see King James’s court! Adi said cheerfully. The women in all the latest fashions, and the colors! We will dance and be merry and have such a grand time! she went on.

Angelica looked disparagingly at her oldest sister. Adi, ye ken I have only the gown I wear. Why did ye request such?

Ye ken ye could have said nay. T’would have been on yer word that we went tae St. Christus first.

Aye, but ye ken ye wouldnae have let it up. Och, it doesnae matter. I will keep tae the chamber given us. Naught will ken I am even there, Angelica said as she stepped to the water’s edge. However, Adi could not imagine wetting her feet outside in a wild stream. Sister will ye nae bathe yer feet? she asked her older sister.

I will be fine until we get tae court, she said and twisted her mouth into a look of disgust.

Angelica nodded and washed her hands and face then bathed her feet and calves. Out of their view, a man watched the two women. He was still trying to decide their worthiness and found it easier with each passing moment. Silently, he returned to the men and took care of his horse.

Munroe cared for his own horse when Angelica and Adi returned from the stream. Some wet tendrils of hair curled around Angelica’s veil. She walked past Shaw and Muir on her way to care for her own horse. Adi stood at the edge of the horses and looked on, helpless.

Lass, ye should tend tae yer mount, Niven told his older daughter while he watched Angelica pick up dry, coarse moss and brush her horse down.

Me? Adi asked, shocked.

Aye, lass. Ye. ‘Tis yer choice tae be here, ye have brought yer own mount, ‘tis yer responsibility tae ensure she doesnae suffer for yer choices, Niven said, and Munroe silently agreed with a nod.

Tàmhas, Muir, Shaw, and Roynald watched the Baird men try to convince the eldest daughter she needed to earn her keep. Roynald shook his head and Shaw smirked at him before they decided the show was boring and returned to what they were doing.

Tàmhas managed to maneuver his horse closer to Angelica’s when she left for the stream. Did ye make certain tae brush under her belly? he asked.

Oh, nay. I havenae yet, but I will do so, M’ Lord, Angelica said, trying to ignore the heady aroma of horse, leather, and earthy scents emanating from Tàmhas’s skin.

Good girl. He smiled at her and returned to caring for his own horse.

When they finished with the horses, having led them to the stream to drink and putting them near a thick growth of grass, they sat to eat. Tàmhas pulled his saddlebag from his horse and sat near Munroe, which put him close to Angelica. Shaw sat on her other side, talking to her. Tàmhas felt a strange tug on his chest as though it was trying to tell him something or guide him somewhere. He swallowed the feeling.

Lord McCormick pulled a large loaf of bread from his bag and tore it in half; then he tore each half again and handed his brothers each a chunk. Muir did the same with cheese and Shaw held out a skin of red wine. Everyone ate in silence.

Munroe, have ye been tae court afore? Shaw asked the Baird heir.

"Nay. This will be me first time. I usually stay behind tae tend tae the castle while da goes tae court. He wants tae be certain I can take over when ‘God forbid’ he is gone from us.

‘Tis Innes’s turn tae learn tae guard the castle."

Shaw nodded. Aye, ‘tis the way with us, too. Howbeit, Tàmhas hardly goes tae court. ‘Tis such a far way tae travel. Six days from home, he said.

Tàmhas and Muir nodded. Also, little brother, ye are barely older than a bairn at ten and eight. I wouldnae subject the courtesans tae yer youthful enthusiasm. Muir laughed, and Shaw curled his lip. He did not like being the butt of jokes for something he could not control.

I may only be ten and eight, but I stand as tall as ye, brother. I believe I could take ye in a duel, he said, jutting his chin up and his chest out.

Muir laughed again. Brother, ye are braw, tae be certain, but our lord would like tae live another day so ye may wish tae swallow yer pride and take back yer challenge.

Aye. Tàmhas may be getting on in age, slow, ye ken? Shaw making Angelica smile.

Tàmhas saw her change in attitude and it brightened her

face. Well, the part he could see. Always careful to keep her left cheek and part of her eye and nose hidden by the veil. He felt strangely unhappy that his brother was the one to make her look so happy.

Papa, how is the court? What goes on there? Angelica asked her father.

‘Tis no place for a good girl, Angelica, Niven said and gave a sideways glance to Adi.

Oh, Papa, ye are so dramatic! Adi said with a flighty glance toward Tàmhas. Ye ken that courts have intrigue, ‘tis what makes it so interesting. Angelica, love, there are minstrels and shows and plays. There are jugglers and dances. Ye would love it, she said to her sister. Then she added, Oh. But ye dinnae have clothing suitable for the courts, she pouted as though she felt badly for her sister.

Again, Tàmhas’s eyes looked at Angelica to see how she reacted to the obvious verbal jab. No matter, Adi. I amnae looking for a husband; I am heading tae St. Christus. I can stay tae me chamber and read or write or reflect, she said. Tàmhas approved. She did not take the bait.

Lady Angelica? Shaw asked.

Aye, Sir Shaw?

I query. If ye found a suitable mon, would ye still choose tae lead the life of a nun?

Nay mon would want the woman, Sir Shaw, Adi said. She isnae a beauty, she isnae even verra large. A bairn could kill the lass, I venture. Now I, on the other hand... she said as she smoothed her sides with her hands, ending at her ample hips

I am made for birthing healthy bairns.

Aye, I can see that, M’ Lady, Shaw said before returning his attention to Angelica. "And ye, M’ Lady? I ken ye arenae as old as yer sister. Do ye think ye still have some growing tae do?

Would ye consider a husband if one were tae ask?"

Shaw. What are ye going on about? The lass is heading tae St. Christus. Her mind is made, and she is an honorable woman who will keep tae her vow, Tàmhas shut down his brother, though something in the back of his mind told him he wanted the girl for himself. Tàmhas felt a strange jolt of jealousy. He wanted Angelica to pay attention to him.

Aye, brother. Ye are right. Me apologies, Lady Angelica, Shaw said and bowed.

Tàmhas grunted and returned to eating.

After a few more minutes, the men and women remounted, Angelica mounted