"Thank you for the warning," Drest said. "However, I see no reason why I should aid the King of Alba to regain his kingdom."
"There is an excellent reason." Bradan spoke unexpectedly. "Once the Norsemen conquer Alba, they will be looking to your kingdom next. Fidach is smaller than Alba, and the Norse will surround you on three sides, and on the fourth by the sea, which the Norse control."
"We have fought off the Norse before," Drest said, "and the Albans. I do not see them as a threat."
"Nor did Alba," Bradan said dryly. "After all, the King of the Norse is related to the King of Alba. This attack came suddenly."
Athdara frowned. "You say that the King of Alba was captured or killed in Dun Edin and the Norse slew his only relative at the Battle of Lodainn Plain. Is that correct?"
"Th
