Page 6 of Fearless Heart
“None, but we continue our communication. And I’ve nothing to barter that the French want in trade for him besides coin. Bah, the choices and mistakes of a young laird led me astray. I shouldn’t have sided with Edward back then. I wish that you return soon for we’ve had troubles. The MacKintoshs continue to vex us. They raided our lands and stole much of our winter stores. I’ve sent a number of our clansmen after them, but they lost their trail. I hesitate to step foot upon their land. It could bring us significant losses. I will not put my clansmen in a dire situation unless it is called for.”
Heath leaned back, dismayed by the news. With his father’s report, he was torn between doing his duty and following his heart. On the one hand, he should return home and help his father rule their clan and defend their clans’ people against their enemy. On the other hand, he wanted to join with the Scots Templars and use his fighting talents for righteousness.
“When ye return, you will help me bring the MacKintoshs to heel.”
Graciously his father didn’t require a response. Heath didn’t know how to tell him of his desire to join the order of the Templars. In hearing how Graeme’s grandfather aided the Templars, he too wanted to give himself to their order. It was better to fight in the name of God than for any other reason. He’d have to speak of his wishes once he was freed of his service to the Bruce. Likely, his father would abhor his decision and refuse to allow his pursuit.
Heath daren’t broach the subject now. “Our feud with the MacKintoshs goes way back and will likely continue. Send out more sentries to keep watch on our land.”
“I have done so. What brings you to the king’s festival? I wouldn’t deem you would come since you’re determined on keeping unseen.”
He finished the warm wine, content by its effect. “We search for our missing squire. He was heard to say he was coming here.”
“Ah, lads will oft take off when not watched. Have you visited Laird Hunter?”
“I have not and only just arrived. I don’t want my presence known, so I doubt I shall see him. How are the Hunters?” Heath crossed his ankles, relaxed by his father’s mollifying mood. It wasn’t usually the case, for he never sat back and conversed with him. Not even when he was a wee lad.
“Aylmer is one of my oldest friends. I ken him well and I say there is something troubling afoot here. He hasn’t come to greet me and there must be a disconcerting matter he’s dealing with. Otherwise he would’ve come by now.”
“Why don’t you go to Laird Hunter? I’m sure he’ll be glad for your help if he’s beset with troubles. I should go, for I aim to find the missing lad before the day is through.”
Laird Fraser bellowed a laugh. “Don’t be too hard on the lad. Remember what it was like to be young and spirited. Before ye leave, Heath, I want ye to ken … I am proud of you, son. You remind me of myself when I was a robust capable young man out to save the land and fight for what is right. Always side with the righteous and you shall always triumph. Remember that. Keep my words within your heart.”
He rose and helped his father to stand by throwing a hand down. It was unlike him to be expressive or fervent with his words, but Heath appreciated his candor. His father appeared weakened, but he was aged. He tried to discern his age, but it was impossible. No longer was he the spry warrior who boasted his ability at foiling any foe. Mayhap he didn’t have long to exist. Did he suspect he was dying? Heath resisted asking.
The scuffles with the MacKintoshs concerned him and Heath turned before he reached the exit of the tent. “Da, if you need me … if the shanty MacKintoshs become too difficult to deal with … send word. Send the message to Friar Hemm at Sweetheart Abbey. He knows how to reach me.”
“I will, son, if need be. Och the MacKintoshs will always be a thorn in our backsides, eh?”
“Is Ma well? I forgot to ask after her?” Heath stood near him and noticed his height surpassed his da’s. It struck him because his father had always stood taller than he.
“She is well. That woman will outlive me, I trust, for she’s always harping after me to take better care of myself. I let her grumble for it makes her happy. I should visit with Aylmer now.”
“Tell her I miss her and will visit when I can. Be well, Da. I shall see you soon.” He embraced his father, clapping him on the shoulder, and contented by their brief visitation. Their call wasn’t as contentious as he’d thought it might be.
Heath left the tent and gave his clansmen a wave and continued on with his search of the lad. The afternoon gave to revelry, and many sat around with cups of various drink. How he wished he had nothing more to occupy himself, but life was not as amiable at the present.
His life was filled with protecting the king, keeping his comrades safe, and ensuring he kept accurate accounts of those he killed. He gazed at the tassel hanging from his boot and suspected he might have to add to the numbers if the war with the MacKintoshs ensued.