Page 94 of The Scot

“I fell ill,” Stanton began. “I thought to send the men ahead but did not trust any to lead the group in my stead.”

An affliction Terric could understand.

“When I came upon Ulster’s men, I could not get a message through. I would not have attacked, but it became necessary.”

“You were spotted?” he guessed.

“Aye. By then, the only message was my captain’s dead body and the hope that you’d be reinforced enough to engage.” Stanton crossed his arms. “You were under siege.”

“We were.”

Stanton did not ask about the change in his plans.

“Thank you for your assistance.”

“And for yours.”

Terric might have chosen siege, but a quick victory was always preferable. With the help of their allies, they had accomplished just that with minimal loss of life.

Except for Gilbert and several others.

Terric clenched his fists. King John was playing games with them. The order needed to meet again, to discuss their course of action.

“We will likely be going to war against the king.”

“Aye,” Stanton agreed.

“One that could be drawn out for years.”

Again, his ally agreed.

“Then there is no reason to wait. No time will be better.”

“For?”

He should ask the man for permission. He’d surely give it, considering he’d already granted Terric’s request to court his daughter. But he would take no chances, including giving Stanton the opportunity to say no.

“To marry your daughter.”

Stanton’s eyes widened.

“Tomorrow.”