Teárlag listened in total amazement to what they planned. Rules regarding striking of servants were remarkable enough, but to hear Thorburn agree to be punished in order to make the ordeal easier for Isobel bordered on insanity. He was Lord of Cameron Keep. To contemplate doing such a thing was unheard of. Lord Blackthorne would easily kill a man before allowing himself to be struck. She followed them outside to watch what occurred.

Thorburn conducted a quick whispered conversation with one of the retainers training outside, who listened intently, nodding his head when Thorburn finished explaining. Thorburn handed him a coin glinting of silver which the retainer slipped in his...