Highland Legends 04 - Captive Highlander

by Connie C. Scharon

  They stepped inside and parted ways. Jamie did not even want to know where his soothsayer sister was going.

  Chapter 20

  Ian woke to a wet cloth wiping his face. He tried hard to focus on the face of the man bent over him. “Ah, you live,” Jared MacLean said.

  “Jared?” Ian could not fathom how his brother-in-law suddenly appeared. The last he remembered he watched his father and Erland slain by Draco’s sword.

  “My father?”

  “He is alive, but seriously wounded. I already sent him to Asilinn.” Jared’s dark eyes swept over him. “My wife will not be pleased I didna send you to Dunbocan with your father.”

  “You did the right thing.” Ian tried to sit up. His head spun at the movement and forced him back down into the soft bedding. “Katie? What of Katie?”

  “Katie Blackburn?”

  “Aye, did you find a woman on the battlefield?”

  Jared’s jaw went taut. “One of Rannoch’s men told me the order was to take Katie and kill the rest. I am sure he took her. We searched for hours and found no woman. Only you and your father survived this travesty.” Jared let out a short, bitter laugh. “The two men I am sure Rannoch wanted dead more than all the rest.”

  “Erland gave his life to save my father.”

  “Aye, so. We shall have to wait on Asilinn’s cures to see if he succeeded.”

  “Where are we?”

  Jared looked around the room. “At The Stagg Inn, your father’s rider found us out on a hunt. We came as fast as we could, but only arrived in time to kill the men Rannoch left behind to bury his dead.”

  “The inn,” Ian echoed.

  “Aye, and now that you are once again with the living let me go and get the innkeeper to send up some food and drink. While we eat, you can tell me about your little adventure with Katie Blackburn.”

  Ian nodded. His head throbbed with every movement. He heard the door close as Jared left the room. What accident of fate spared Ian when so many of his kinsmen had perished? He drew a deep breath and felt every one of his bruised ribs protest.

  The bed Ian lay in had fresh white sheeting that smelled of lavender. A fire spit and crackled in one corner of the chamber. Nearby a table and two chairs invited a weary traveler to find respite near the hearth. Draped over one chair were a fresh shirt and a length of the Innes plaid. Lifting his covering, he looked beneath it. His naked body bore no blood or grime from the battlefield. It took awhile before he could gather enough strength to sit up. Slowly he struggled to his feet and managed to don the clothes laid out for him. Once dressed, he propped up in the bed as images of the carnage ran through his brain.

  A noise at the door drew his attention. “May we come in,” Jared called.

  “Aye, I’m decent.”

  Jared walked into the room with one of the tavern maids. The aroma of lamb stew hit Ian’s nostrils bringing back a sweeter memory. Katie served him this the night he first laid eyes on her. “Ian, can you come to the table?” Jared asked.

  “Aye,” Ian replied getting to his feet. He settled himself in the chair across the table from his brother-in-law. The warmth from the fire seeped into his body flooding it with heat. The tavern maid fawned over him as she set out his meal. He barely noticed. Ian looked down at the bread bowl full of lamb stew and thought of the night that changed his life.

  “I’m Mattie, Milord,” the tavern maid said as she rubbed Ian’s shoulder. “If there is anythin’ you need… anythin’ at all, I am happy to provide it.”

  Jared shot her a stern look. “Leave us, Mattie, we have business to discuss.”

  The girl stopped touching Ian and scurried to the door. “Call if I can be of service,” she mumbled as she left the room.

  “Ever desired by the ladies,” Jared commented. “Tell me about Katie Blackburn.”

  Ian took a hunk of bread, dipped it in the lamb stew, and tasted it. His first encounter with Katie assailed his memory. “Katie came to The Stagg Inn bent on capturing me and holding me for ransom,” he began.

  Jared’s surprise showed on his face. “Ambitious girl.”

  Ian took another bite and let the flavorsome broth trickle down his throat. “She offered to sell her virginity to me, playing the part of whore for hire so she could trick me and get me into the barn.”

  “What could a mere lass do to capture you in the innkeeper’s barn?”

  “Her kinsman Keith waited there to help.”

  “Dangerous lady.”

  “Aye, but my desire for her blinded my judgment.”

  “They took you to Duntaigh Castle.”

  “Aye, and chained me in a dungeon cell.”

  “And still you found her enchanting.”

  “I plan to marry her.”

  “Does she ken your plans?”

  “We discussed them briefly.”

  “Perchance she did grant you what she first offered.”

  Ian felt his face flush. “Katie and I share a spark that cannot be extinguished. She is mine in every sense of the word. The only thing left is to make her my wife.”

  Pushing back in his chair, Jared smiled. “She sounds as spirited as Skye.”

  “Aye, she is. I am attracted to fiery women who dinna conform to what is expected of them.”

  “It has taken you so long to find the perfect match. We will find a way to save her.” Drawing a velvet pouch from his pocket, Jared handed it to Ian. “Your father gave me this. He told me to give it you and tell you were not to have Katie again until this was on her finger. Now his instructions make sense.”

  “Father feared he wouldna live long enough to give this to me himself.”

  “Aye,” Jared said. “I canna wait to meet this Katie Blackburn who has stolen your heart. Although she might have to fight the tavern maids to get you. They argued over who would clean you up and then all had a hand in it.”

  Ian opened the pouch and dumped the contents into his palm. His father gave this betrothal ring to his mother when they wed. Golden and bejeweled, it sparkled up at him. “My mother’s ring.”

  “He must approve of Katie. Angus has carried this with him for years.”

  “May God guide Asilinn in his care.” Ian made the sign of the cross. “I am not ready to lose my father.”

  “Neither is Asilinn, so that is in our favor. You ken how determined my wife can be.”

  Ian managed a smile. “I canna wait here for the clans to gather. I must go to Duntaigh Castle and find Katie.”

  “There has been a change in plan. The clans will gather at Dunbocan Castle to plan the attack on Duntaigh. I canna have all our men here at the inn with no fortifications. Rannoch could send someone to see why none of the men he left returned. I dinna ken how much of an army he can raise. It could be the king of England will help him. Your father said he could be Edward’s spy.”

  “I see your point, but I canna wait for the full plan to be in place. I will pack some provisions and head out when night falls… less chance of being spotted.”

  “Can you find the secret entrance without help?”

  “Aye.”

  “You shouldna go alone. I could go with you.”

  “Nay, Jared. My father lies at death’s door. I am going off to free Katie. When the Innes clansmen arrive from Cairngorm Castle, I need someone who the men trust to take charge of them. They will be hot-headed and ready to tear Rannoch limb from limb. You must keep them from carelessness as they seek revenge for our fallen clansmen. They trust you. They will follow you in my stead. Will you do this?”

  “Aye, you have my word. If you wilna let me go with you, take a few of my men,” Jared suggested. “Any of them would volunteer to aid your cause.”

  “I think this calls for a single man and stealth. Not unlike your foray into Cairngorm Castle to steal my sister and make her your wife.”

  Jared grinned. “Best thing I ever did.”

  “I am glad you recognize that.” Ian grew more serious. “Rannoch has plans for Katie and I mus
t free her before he can carry them out. I only hope I am not too late already. I will bring her to the safety of Dunbocan then we will attack Rannoch.”

  “What of her father and siblings?”

  “I dinna think Rannoch will harm the others, but if it becomes necessary there are hiding places in the castle where they could stay until we return with an army to dispense Rannoch.”

  “What if Ross rode with you to the secret entrance to Duntaigh? We will need to use this entry point in our attack.”

  “And if I dinna return, someone can lead you inside.”

  “’Tis a dangerous task. I would prefer to have a way to get inside if you find you canna come to Dunbocan as planned.”

  “Aye,” Ian agreed. “I will show Ross how to get in then he must return to you. He can help with the planning of the raid. Give me five days. If I havena made it to Dunbocan with Katie by then, attack.”

  “As you wish.” Jared stood and stretched. “I thank God your sister is not here to complain about our plans.”

  “Me too.” Ian rose and threw another chunk of peat of the fire.

  “Get some rest if you can. I will see to the preparations and tell Ross he is taking a little trip. The innkeeper will pack some provisions for your journey.” Jared paused at the door. “When you bring Katie back to Dunbocan dinna take the main road. There is a little used trail that is more direct and will baffle Rannoch should he be after you. Ross knows of it. I will draw you a map before you leave.”

  “How long will it take?”

  “’Twill take you a day and a half to go to Dunbocan from Duntaigh on this other route. ‘Tis safer, more remote.”

  Ian embraced his brother-in-law. “You are a true brother to me.”

  “We are bound by blood.” Jared grinned. “You are my children’s favorite uncle.”

  “I am their only uncle.”

  “Aye, so,” Jared said with a laugh. “Rest, you are far from fit.”

  Jared left the room and Ian sank back in the comfortable bed. Was Katie safe from Rannoch’s wrath? He would know soon enough. Despite all his troubles, he fell asleep in no time.

  Hours later he woke to Jared’s knock at the door. “All is in readiness.”

  Ian rose and gathered his weapons. At dusk, Ian and Ross headed toward Duntaigh Castle.

  Jamie rapped lightly on the heavy oak door. Brianna opened it and stared at him. “Jamie.” Surprise showed on her face.

  “May I come in?” he asked.

  She pulled the door back to allow him entry. “It has been some time since you saw fit to visit me.”

  “Aye, so. I have not been the best brother.”

  “Sit,” she offered waving her hand toward two velvet cushioned chairs near the fire.

  Her spacious room overlooked the courtyard where he just sat with Tessa. Brianna liked fine things. She stuffed her chamber with opulent furnishings, sumptuous bedding, and ornate furniture. Her taste for luxury showed in every corner. Brianna shared their mother’s taste for excess. Before her death, Lady Katherine Blackburn designed a similarly appointed chamber to share with the laird of the keep. Their father left every detail in place when she died as if he hoped she would suddenly appear and take up residence again. Jamie settled into a chair by the fire. Brianna sat in the chair across from him

  A pile of dresses lay strewn in disarray on the huge, four-poster bed. His sister wore a low-cut, emerald green velvet gown that made her eyes shine like emeralds. Her fair skin contrasted with her rich, golden-brown hair. Brianna’s snow white breasts rose and fell with every intake of breath. Until his time with Sorcha, Jamie had not noticed his sister’s change from a girl to a ripe, young woman. No wonder Rannoch courted her. “Going through all your gowns?” he asked.

  Her face scrunched into a frown. “’Tis none of your concern. What do you want?”

  “I came to talk with you.” He grinned at her. “It seems you were having quite a time deciding what to wear. I like your choice.”

  Brianna shrugged then laughed. “Aye, so, it is Katie’s dress, but it makes my eyes look so green. I borrowed it. What did you want to talk about?”

  Jamie felt her eyes moving over him. “Katie.”

  “What about Katie?”

  “She captured Ian Innes and held him in the dungeon.”

  “What? How?”

  “I dinna ken, but Keith helped her. Later she regretted her actions. She helped Ian get out of the castle. The Innes clan had come looking for Ian and they aided in the escape. Katie went with them.”

  “Our sister has clearly lost her mind.”

  Jamie hung his head then looked Brianna. “There is more. Sorcha came to me this morning and told me Rannoch found them and slaughtered all of them except Katie. She saw the carnage. Sorcha said Katie is not herself. Rannoch has tasked Sorcha with finding some cure.”

  Brianna wrung her hands then stood and paced across the room. Finally, she whirled to face him. “What did Sorcha mean about Katie not being herself?”

  “I guess Katie’s mind has trouble accepting what she saw. Can you find out more from Rannoch? He will confide in you. In the meantime, I will go to Katie and see how she is.” Jamie stood and started for the door. “Please, we need your help.”

  Brianna came over and gave him a quick hug. “I will ask Rannoch. He has invited me to dine with him.”

  “Do you trust him, Brianna?”

  “With my life.”

  “Katie thinks otherwise.”

  Brianna let out her breath in a rush. “Katie chose not to accept Rannoch’s proposal. If I am granted that choice, I wilna be so foolish. Rannoch serves at our father’s request. He protects us against outside invaders. If he asks me to be his wife, I will agree.”

  “Brianna, Katie is not usually wrong in her opinions.”

  “She is this time,” Brianna said with surety.

  “Perchance,” Jamie said, looking into his sister’s eyes. There was no changing her opinion. “I love you, Brianna. Stay safe.”

  She kissed him. “Aye, so, Jamie. You will see I am not mistaken. I want to be Rannoch’s wife, even if Katie disapproves. Let me find my fate.”

  “As you wish,” he said kissing her forehead. “Have a care, Brianna.”

  “You worry too much,” she assured him. “All will be fine.”

  With a heavy sigh, Jamie left her.

  Chapter 21

  Brianna entered the dark, quiet chamber. The day had turned gloomy and outside the narrow windows clouds scudded across the sky. A large table near the fire held a bottle of wine and two goblets. Several tall candle stands sat near the table casting a flickering glow around the chamber. Elegant appointments decorated the entire space.

  Rannoch stood near the hearth. He appeared pensive and barely aware of her entrance. She hesitated then walked up beside him. “You requested my presence?”

  He turned and gazed upon her. “Aye, so.”

  “I am sorry to disturb you. ‘Tis clear you were deep in thought.”

  “Ah, ‘tis nothing.” He smiled at her. “Let us share some wine and talk. The servants will be here soon with our meal.”

  Rannoch walked over to the table. He had his back to her as he poured the wine. When he turned to face her, he held out a goblet inviting her closer to him. She stepped to his side and took the wine. “Spirits affect me, Milord. I shouldna have such a full cup.”

  He let out a soft laugh. “You are with me. We need a little levity in this dark time.” He ran his finger under her chin. “Drink with me, love.”

  Brianna’s heart fluttered in her chest. His eyes were warm and searching. “Love?” she said in a breathless whisper.

  “You are my love,” he said softly, “The only one of your father’s offspring who recognizes my honorable intent.”

  “If that is so, Milord, why did you ask for Katie’s hand?” she asked.

  “’Twas the honorable thing to do. Your sister is older and should be the first to wed. You were always the one I desire
d, but I sought to honor tradition.”

  “And now?” she asked. “What are your plans, Milord?”

  “I invited you here to discuss our future.”

  “Our… our future,” she stammered.

  “Aye, so,” he whispered. “Your sister has made her choice and she must live with her decision.” He held up his goblet and touched it to hers. “To us,” he said.

  She hesitated then smiled at him. “To us,” she repeated drinking deep from her cup. Brianna could feel the heady wine travel through her body. “’Tis potent, Milord.”

  “A drink fit for a gray day.” He looked deep into Brianna’s eyes. She had trouble catching her breath. A light rap on the door drew him away from her. He turned and went to answer it. “Bring in the food,” he said to the servants waiting in the hallway. They laid out the meal then looked at Rannoch expectantly. “Leave us,” Rannoch ordered. “We are not to be disturbed.”

  Brianna watched Rannoch follow them to the door. Glancing back at her, he slid the bolt into place with the resounding clang of metal against metal. She recoiled. The sound echoed through her brain. Alone with him locked in this elegant chamber she was under his control. What if Katie was right? Had he really done those things to Sorcha?

  Rannoch came back and held out a chair for her. His finger tips brushed her bare shoulders as he pushed her chair in closer to the table. Did he sense her apprehension? Fear and excitement coursed through her, equal rivals in her fight to remain calm. She had just assured Jamie of Rannoch’s honorable intent. Why did she doubt it now? Brianna forced herself to think of Jamie’s request. She drank deep from her cup looking for courage to ask questions she feared would anger Rannoch. She didn’t want to make him angry. Hadn’t he just suggested they had a future together? When Rannoch found his seat across from her, she looked at him earnestly. “Milord, I havena seen Katie in some time. Do you ken what has happened to her?”

  His eyes narrowed slightly. “Why are you asking me, Brianna?”

  “You said Katie must live with her decision. Is she gone? Has she run off?”

  Reaching across the table, he gently rubbed his finger over the top of her hand. “Did you ken that Katie hatched a plan to capture Ian Innes and carried it out with Keith’s help?”