Chapter 77

Castle Eilean Donan: The Unexpected

The day started with bleak gray clouds obscuring the sky. As winter approached, the sun had become a rare sight, and the chill in the air grew increasingly biting. Fiona held Iona by the shoulders, tightening her grip as Malcolm rode through the castle courtyard door. The echoing of the horse's hooves on the hard ground slowly faded.

"Be careful," Fiona whispered. Tears welled as she watched him cross the narrow bridge connecting the castle to the mainland. They stood there until his figure disappeared behind the trees.

"Let's go inside, mother. I'm frozen," Iona complained, clutching her cape tightly to protect herself from the cold wind.

"Yes, let's go," Fiona agreed. They headed towards the large wooden door, which was wide open, waiting for them. Fiona shut the heavy door and wiped the tears from her eyes. What would she do without Malcolm? He was left alone, unaccompanied. If he was attacked on the street, he could hardly get through on his o