Page 17 of The Trials of Neilina MacKai
“By all means,” Lady Seona responded.“However, I believe Laird MacFearann wished to consult with myself, his steward and the captain of his guard.Meeting the servants may have to wait.”
Lady Staunton’s gimlet eye turned on Rhuad.
He sighed as quietly as possible.The last thing he needed right now was to deal with one of his aunt’s temper tantrums.She did not yell, scream, or even weep.However, she made certain everyone knew she was unhappy and generally did her best to ensure that anyone within earshot was as dissatisfied as she was herself.
“No, go ahead and introduce the servants.We are all tired from our journey.”He turned to Seona.“I think tomorrow, after breaking our fast, will be the best time to make plans.Now I really must leave you to discuss with my steward any events occurring within Clan MacFearann during my absence.”
“I’ll bid you adieu, husband,” said Lady Seona.
“Yes, yes,” his aunt made a dismissive gesture and took his wife by the arm.“This gentleman is Sir Buidealair.You may ask of him anything you would ask of me.”
A thin, older man of short stature, he bowed over her hand.“Delighted to meet you, Lady Seona.I regret I cannot linger to speak longer with you.There is urgent business I must bring to my lord’s attention.”
“Perhaps later, Sir Buidelair, you may tell me of how to manage a holding such as Castle MacFearann.From what I can see, my own home, Dungarob Keep, is significantly smaller.”
“I will do so happily, my lady.Now if you will excuse me, Laird MacFearann grows impatient.”He smiled as he spoke.
Seona might not realize that Buidealair was joking.
I have never been in a hurry to attend to the business of the holding.Being the second son was a great blessing.Ranulf should have been the one to deal with the tedious business of running the clan and holdings.
“Until later, then,” said Lady Seona.“Laird MacFearann, I will see you anon.”
“Of a certainty.”He gave a single nod and walked off with the steward.
Chapter Three
Castle MacFearann,on the Scottish Northeast Coast
Early Evening February 23, 1297
Seona watched him walk away before following Lady Staunton down the line of servants.That lady dismissed each person as she completed the introduction.Tired as she was, Seona managed to maintain a courteous and interested demeanor as she was introduced to more than twenty servants.Lady Staunton made certain that Seona understood these were only the upper servants.There were another fifty or so, she said, to manage heavy chores and even more who attended to things outside the castle proper.
Eventually only one servant remained.
“This is Eibhlin, she will serve as your lady’s maid.I notice you did not bring a maid with you.”Lady Staunton frowned her disapproval.
