Chapter 13
The BrotherIn the morning, very early, a group gathered in the forecourt and mounted up ready to ride. Sir Kenneth and his two companions were there. Also Donal and Neil, Mairi on Moon-Metal and Brother Durston beside her on a rather sinewy, ragged looking pony belonging to one of Neil’s younger brothers. He looked too large for the animal — his legs, without stirrups, dangling awkwardly near to the ground. The dogs were barking with excitement, begging to be allowed to go with the riders. Ingrid was fussing with pouches and baskets of food. Neil’s father was giving instructions about care and caution. The younger brothers were running in and out, getting in the way.
Just as Donal was about to duck his head to lead them under the lintel of the gateway and out of the yard, Fion
