‘With respect, Lord, my answer is no. I told her she would not be harmed, and I keep my promises. If I must choose, I will take the girl and forfeit the land.’
‘Only a fool chooses a woman over land.’
‘Fool it is then, Lord.’
‘I admire you, Buchanan, you are a good fighter. So I will not shame you by favouring Banan’s claim over yours, but his father is our ally. If you want the girl, you will have to win her, fair and square. Agreed?’
‘Aye.’
Lord Douglas turned to address his men, all eagerly awaiting the outcome of the quarrel.
‘It is time to end this rivalry once and for all. Banan MacGregor, Lyall Buchanan, if you both want this lass, we will decide the matter like men. You will fight. Winner takes the lass and any ransom she brings. Do you agree?’
‘Aye,’ snarled Banan. ‘I will beat him to a pulp, and when I take her, I will make him watch.’
‘Good,’ said Lord Douglas. He turned back to his men. ‘At last, something to entertain me on this fruitless day. We have a contest, men, a fight, for a beautiful prize.’