Highland Persuasion (The MacLomain Series- Early Years) by Sky Purington Page B

Alexander and Shamus thought they had her ruled by the fact they possessed magic and she was lacking. But she knew better. These men had no idea how to be violent and own another through magic. Therefore they were no real threat.
    But they were exceptionally interesting!
    Thump.
    Iosbail came to her feet not that far from Alexander. Where had that sound come from?
    Shamus, peering down from a rock above, said, “I sent you to hunt not bathe!”
    Alexander grinned. “Go get Caitroina so that she might bathe as well. Then we’ll eat.”
    He got no argument from the Irishman and an hour later, all bathed; they sat around a spit ripe with cooked fish. Though they’d all become comrades on this quest nobody spoke. Too long and unsure was the journey ahead and too unknown the company. Yet when they started the long walk it was with less apprehension and a sense of security.
    The Norman lass knew nothing of magic but simply followed her mistress. For that, Iosbail was eternally grateful. Alexander’s attitude was comfortable and easy. As the day wore on she realized despite the power he thought he had over them, he showed none of it. His comments and directions were of a means to keep them safe.
    Neither Shamus nor Alexander mentioned again what they’d discussed the previous eve.
    It was the next morn as they made their way deeper into the wild and thick forests cuddled between the mountains that Iosbail once more tuned her ears to the sound of nature. She heard not the call of the wild but the whistles and clicks used by the clans when they spoke amongst the trees and wind.
    When a Highlander broke free from the woodland wearing a different plaid from the Sinclair’s, Iosbail quickly realized that they’d arrived at the Mason’s clan. Though a young tribe she knew well the mark they’d eventually have on the world. A sept of the Sinclair’s it didn’t shock her that they’d come to Alexander’s aide. Word traveled quickly in Scotland. Most would know that the king had ordered his cousin dead. 
    “Free Masons,” she murmured as several horsemen surrounded them. “Thus far.”
    Iosbail couldn’t help but admire how they put themselves in peril by welcoming Alexander’s small group. Not many save her own would openly defy the king of Scotland.
    Nothing was said as they were swung onto horseback behind various men.
    “Jameson’s the name, lass,” said her horseman.
    Iosbail said nothing. She had no desire to introduce herself to anyone yet.
    Eventually they arrived in a small village with a larger thatched hut at its center surrounded by smaller huts. In all sense of the word, this clan was terribly poor. Women and children mingled here and there. Big stone blocks surrounded their small encampment.
    When at last they unhorsed, Jameson bowed, “Much welcome, Iosbail of the Broun clan.”
    She lowered her eyes briefly but nothing else. “Much thanks.”
    Formalities obviously honored, Jameson turned and embraced Alexander and Shamus like long lost brothers. “Too long!” he cried.
    Smiles wide, the men followed Jameson into the center hut. Iosbail, disjointed and not quite sure of their situation, saw to Caitriona. The poor lass was wide eyed and afraid.
    “Come with me,” Iosbail said softly when a Mason lass nodded at her to follow. “We’re safe.”
    Relieved, Caitriona followed them into a small cottage nearby. Pleased, Iosbail accepted a change of clothing for her and her lady. Brown and functional, the clothing felt like the first normal thing she’d worn in ages. It was only when the lass led her and Caitriona out of the cottage into a stone tunnel lit by torches that Iosbail began to gawk at the absolutely stunning stonemanship around them. Aye, she knew what the Masons would eventually be capable of but how could all of this be possible this early in history?
    Iosbail never released Caitroina’s hand as they walked down the stone stairs. The descent was surprisingly long. Small torches lined