’Twas the Templars who arrived, the two parties meeting on the road beyond Airdfinnan’s sentries. Jacqueline was not privy to whatever was said between Angus and the leader, for she was left in the custody of the men from Ceinn-beithe, though Duncan was by Angus’s side. The men conferred, then dismounted, retiring to the quickly pitched tent of the Templar master.
The men were efficient in setting their camp and beginning to prepare a meal, but not so busy that they did not watch Jacqueline. Each time she tried to draw near the council, a Templar abandoned his task and politely turned her away, even to the point of escorting her back to Edana.
“They have no place for women,” the old woman muttered.
“Whyever not?”
Edana smiled. “Because they are caught betwixt one world and the next, th
