"Not only Fidach is fighting," Melcorka said. "The riders of the southern marches of Alba are gathering, and once we leave Fidach, Bradan and I will try to persuade the Isles to join us."
"Donald of the Isles?" Aharn nodded. "I would not trust the Isles any more than I would trust the Norse. They are mighty warriors, but fickle, apt to sway toward whoever smiled at them last. I know nothing of the Borderers of the southern marches."
Melcorka gave a bitter smile as she thought of Douglas. "I saw some Borderers fight at the battle of Lodainn Plain," she said. "They were brave warriors, even although they fought on foot and not on horseback."
"We will see if they arrive," Aharn said.
Melcorka nodded. "We can only hope." She wondered if she should mention her dalliance with Douglas and dec
