Page 129 of Highland Queen

“Lost in battle. I’m sorry, cousin,” he told Bethoc.

“Lost? Lost how?”

“Well, I killed him. Traitor that he was.”

“Macbeth,” I chided.

Bethoc wailed then turned and rushed toward the castle.

Madelaine frowned at Macbeth then turned and went after Bethoc.

“Have you no care for ladies’ sensibilities?” I asked, but then I laughed. “I’m sorry. How absurd. I’d forgotten who I was speaking to.”

“What?” Macbeth asked, looking confused.

I scanned the men. “Where is your bastard?”

“Who?

“Findelach.”

“Oh. He died.”

“What?”

“Yeah, I guess he had never been in battle before. Pig farmer and all.”

“He died?”

Macbeth nodded. “I need a bath. Wallace,” he said, waving to his man. “I’ll go in.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” the man called.

Before I could step aside, Macbeth clapped me on the shoulder. “Dunsinane,” he said, looking up at the castle. “What a lucky name.”

He turned and headed inside.

Still in disbelief, I went to Wallace who, it appeared, had taken over Banquo’s duties as Macbeth’s chief general. He was barking orders when I approached.

“Sir,” I called to him.

“Your Majesty,” he said, giving me a quick bow.

“Is it true that Findelach has perished?”

Wallace shifted uncomfortably. “Yes, Your Majesty. He was…unready for battle.”

“His body?”

“We buried him in the field.”

“I see. And Crinian?”

“Also…deceased,” Wallace said, not meeting my eye.

“And what does that mean?”

“Some matters regarding war are not suitable for ladies’ ears.”

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