Word finally came by way of one of the king's soldiers; they finally found Rachel. The Highlanders gathered their things, prepared the horses and were standing near the clearing watching Catherin pace back and forth.
Justin leaned close to Kevin, "How long should I wait before I marry her?"
Kevin looked surprised. "You prefer her?"
"Are you daft? Every unmarried lad in the clan will want her."
"Then 'tis a good thing you have the advantage."
"What advantage?"
"It was you who saved her and it is you she talks to." Catherin was pacing faster now and Kevin could only guess how hard it was for her to wait. "It will please my wife if her mother and sister live with us."
"Aye. How old do you think Catherin is?"
Kevin smiled, "I do not even know how old Anna is, but I would guess Stoneham took Catherin when she was very young."
Finally, Athena walked into the clearing with a child in her arms. Catherin screeched, began to run and as soon as Athena let Rachel down, the child turned and ran into her mother's arms.
Behind Athena, the King of England sat on his horse watching. He got down when Athena walked back to him and was surprised when the woman boldly kissed his cheek. Grinning, he got back on his mount, returned Kevin's nod of appreciation and rode away.
On the other side of Kevin, Thomas sighed. "It warms my heart to see such joy. Do you want me to ride ahead and tell your wife we are bringing them with us?"
"Nay, I wish to surprise her."
*
Kevin and his warriors had been gone for most of three weeks when they finally neared the Keep. He told Justin to hide Catherin and Rachel in the trees so he could sneak them in later. Catherin didn't look happy about that idea, but she didn't make a fuss.
The men were tired, hungry and wanted to see their families. Instead of being inside the wall, the women, children and most of the guards were standing on the crest watching something in the meadow. Kevin almost didn't go see what it was, but when his men headed over and the crowd laughed, it piqued his curiosity.
As soon as he swung down off his horse, Katie ran to him. "You are not going to believe this!" She grabbed his arm and was practically dragging him when he came to a sudden halt.
There she was. The horse was as big as he remembered and the woman was even more beautiful. She was wearing the same skirt with her purple tunic, belt and medallion. The only thing different was the white ruffled nightcap on her head and this time she carried no bow and arrows.