Content

Preface

Idea

When I began this story more than 2 years ago, it was just a dream really. I still haven't progressed much, but thought I would share for commentary what I have written so far. Below is the history of Dunluce Cast for your reference. When the idea for the story came to me, I did a little research on the castles of Ireland before selecting Dunluce. Also, I did some checking on the overall geographic area as well for the some of the travel that takes place in the story. I have not travelled to Ireland or Dunluce, so please forgive any errors that I may made unknowingly.

Why Ireland?

You may wonder why I chose to base my story someplace I have never travelled to, but I have had a facination with Ireland for many years. In fact, although I have never been their my great-grandparents were born there.

History of Castle Dunluce (Courtesy of Wikipedia)

In the 13th century Richard Óg de Burgh, 2nd Earl of Ulster, built the first castle at Dunluce.

It is first documented in the hands of the McQuillan family in 1513. The earliest features of the castle are two large drum towers about 9 metres (30 ft) in diameter on the eastern side, both relics of a stronghold built here by the McQuillans after they became lords of the Route.

In 1534, one of the child members of the McQuillan family claimed to have seen a woman in a white dress standing at the edge of the cliff, looking out at the ocean at sunset. He said he watched her fade into the wind. No one believed the child so he retrieved his eldest sibling out the next night to watch for the ghost, but it did not appear. Then in the early 1550s, many people claimed to see a woman in a white dress walking down the shore below Castle Dunluce at sunset until finally one day the McQuillan boy, now in his 30's, walked down to the shore and tried to speak with the ghost. After that, it stopped. No reports have ever been made of seeing the woman again.

The McQuillans were the Lords of Route from the late 13th century until they were displaced by the MacDonalds after losing two major battles against them during the mid and late-16th century.

Later Dunluce Castle became the home of the chief of the Clan MacDonnell of Antrim and the Clan MacDonald of Dunnyveg from Scotland. Chief John Mor MacDonald was the second son ofGood John of Islay, Lord of the Isles, 6th chief of Clan Donald in Scotland. John Mor MacDonald was born through John of Islay's second marriage to Princess Margaret Stewart, daughter of KingRobert II of Scotland. In 1584, on the death of James MacDonald the 6th chief of the Clan MacDonald of Antrim and Dunnyveg, the Antrim Glens were seized by Sorley Boy MacDonnell, one of his younger brothers. Sorley Boy took the castle, keeping it for himself and improving it in the Scottish style. Sorley Boy swore allegiance to Queen Elizabeth I and his son Randal was made 1st Earl of Antrim by King James I.

Four years later, the Girona, a galleass from the Spanish Armada was wrecked in a storm on the rocks nearby. The cannon from the ship were installed in the gatehouses and the rest of the cargo sold, the funds being used to restore the castle. MacDonnell's granddaughter Rose was born in the castle in 1613.

At one point, part of the kitchen next to the cliff face collapsed into the sea, after which the wife of the owner refused to live in the castle any longer. According to a legend, when the kitchen fell into the sea only a kitchen boy survived, as he was sitting in the corner of the kitchen which did not collapse.

Dunluce Castle served as the seat of the Earl of Antrim until the impoverishment of the MacDonnells in 1690, following the Battle of the Boyne. Since that time, the castle has deteriorated and parts were scavenged to serve as materials for nearby buildings.

Thank you

My sincere thanks for reading my small story (so far) and I hope you enjoy it.

Lori Imdad

Chapter 1- Leaving

High above, as the ocean swirled and churned, crashing against the rocks that made up the shore below Castle Dunluce of North Antrim in Northern Ireland, Lady Evelyn stood looking out over the expanse of the sea. The view from the top of the towers was as breath-taking as the view of the castle itself. The castle stood strong crowning the basalt cliffs that made up its foundation, an outcrop from the White Cliffs that also formed a wall of protection around the castle. She recalled her grandfather telling her how the Normans came to Northern Ireland many years ago and it was they who had built the oldest part of Dunluce. Later our family came and completed the Castle for our residence.

This morning the clouds were spinning overhead and the winds were fierce which somehow matched her spirits. Her capes billowed while her golden curls blew in every direction as she stood stoically. The dark sea seemed to throw wave upon wave against the rocks, each crashing more violently than the last. It was as though it was taking out its grief on them knowing that she was leaving and were fighting against it.

Right now, she could find no other solution to the problems she faced, and that is why she knew she had to leave and today was the day she had chosen. Her husband, Colla, had died nearly six months ago now. She missed his support and now that their enemies were all lining up to vie for their lands, she felt the pain of his absence even more. She missed the quiet rhythm of Castle Dunluce and their comfortable life together. As had happened in the past, she knew that nearby clans would lay siege to Castle Dunluce in hopes of winning the coveted title of Lord of the Route and the lands that accompany it. She knew that the Castle was not prepared for a siege. Firstly, a siege could go on for years and she and Colla had not built up their food stocks nor the supplies that would be needed to survive an extended siege. Of course, the losses they would sustain would be senseless, since none of it really mattered, unless Queeen Elizabeth agreed to appoint the winning clan as Lord of the Route. Moreover, the Queen wasn’t likely to permit her to retain Castle Dunluce in her present, unmarried state as it was a strategic point of defense for the crown. Her father had been able to keep Dunluce in the family only through her marriage to Colla and now he was gone.

For Lady Evelyn, Castle Dunluce wasn’t merely her marital home and that’s why it tore at her insides to leave, it was the only home she had ever known. She had grown up inside the many rooms of the Castle -- playing with her brothers, learning her lessons, and being trained by her mother to manage a household. In her mind she knew it was simply a building made of stone, wood and sand, but her heart still ached. Leaving Castle Dunluce meant leaving all her memories behind. How could she leave the home where she had been born, as well as where, her father, Edward, and his father before him had been born?

Her mind reeled when the thought that soon she would walk out the castle doors, perhaps forever hit home. She closed her eyes breathing in deeply, memorizing the smell of the air here, the feel of the mist blowing off of the sea below, and the booming sounds of the waves below. "Everything would be alright", she told herself. She breathed in again steadying her churning emotions.

She pleaded with Lord Colla to fight to live, but she could see that he was losing the battle even then. He would nod and whisper words of comfort to her. “Aye there, lassie, Colla will be with you forever, don’t worry.” or “Tsk, tsk you’ve gotten dark circle ‘neath your blue eyes, go take rest”, she couldn’t leave his side. Each day he grew weaker and frailer. She called the village doctors and they had given him brewed herbal remedies and applied poultices, but none of these had helped. One day he didn’t awaken and his breathing became raspy, she knew then that he was leaving her. Within days he was gone from her forever. His death nearly killed her as well as him. She was so distraught she wouldn't eat and couldn't sleep. do so. She was glad he had insisted, especially now

In the days following his death, the castle routine went unchanged. While she grieved his men continued the routine he had put in place. After a few weeks, she began taking on Colla’s responsibilities. None of their army felt his absence because she maintained everything just as he had, just as they had together.

Night time was the hardest for her. She would climb into the huge bed she had shared with Colla and stare at where he used to sleep next to her. Just before sunset she would sleep for an hour or two before the trumpets sounded at dawn. She was shattered and lonely; only the daily routine of the castle kept her going.

After seeing to her morning tasks, she would spend a few hours in the chapel; praying and seeking answers from God. On days when she could she would travel to St. Cuthbert’s Church nearby to meet with the priests or to request the Monks to offer special prayers for Colla. The rest of the time she trained with the men, met with the castle administrators and saw to all the matters that pertained to the castle running smoothly.

As days passed her sleeping pattern improved, but she still felt very connected to him. Some mornings she would partially awaken, turn towards him reaching out to touch him. When her arm encountered the coldness of the bed beside her, her eyes would open and her heart would remember he was gone. He would visit her in her dreams and she still had discussions with him in her mind, though one-sided. He was still very much a part of her. She knows heart will never forget him and she couldn’t imagine any other life than the one she’d had with him. She is thankful for the time she spends training with the men as this has provided a comforting, routine distraction.

Lady Evelyn of Dunluce knew she was no weakling. Even though the loss of Colla has made her sad, she is still a strong and determined leader. Her father and Colla had made certain that she had all the skills necessary and the respect of their army. It was frustrating, that although the Castle had been given to Colla by the crown, now that he was gone she had no right to it. Irish law dictated that a widow could not inherit her husband’s property and she knew the crown wouldn’t accept a woman as the Chieftan of the Route due to it being a strategic defense point. She also knew it would be foolhardy to go to war with their enemies without proper preparation and the possibility of regaining Dunluce. For now, she knew her best option was to take her army and all that belonged to her as well as her family and leave Dunluce. They would travel to another of Colla’s castles, Castle Kinbahn to train and gather more men until they were ready to retake Dunluce.

Shane watched her from inside the castle. He was the Constable of the Castle and led the army of the castle. He watched Lady Evelyn’s robes blowing in the wind making a spectacular scene. Though the castle was secure because of its strategic location, Lady Evelyn knew that would not stop other clans from attacking to try and gain the title. Their army had dwindled down to a mere 80 men since the battle that Clan MacQuillen had with the MacDonnells. Colla had been recruiting men from nearby villages.

As soon as the packing was completed and everything loaded onto the carriages, they would begin the 32 kilometer journey to Castle Kinbahn. This was another of their properties, but not many knew of it because of its location and Colla had the Castle built not that long ago. It was situated on a long, narrow limestone headland projecting into the sea, approximately 5 kilometers from Ballycastle on the road to Ballintoy , so she thought they would be safe there for a while. The Constable watched the play of emotions across her face, the from his post just inside doors of the castle from the tower, her sadness and inner struggle all apparent even though he knew she was trying her best to conceal it.

Leaving Castle Dunluce was a difficult decision and he knew she was still battling with herself to not to breakdown from her sorrow at a leaving her home., her memories of her life and her marriage. Her capes blew behind her in the strong gales coming off the sea and he saw her closing her eyes and absorbing all the sensations surrounding her. He stepped back to allow his Lady a few more minutes to herself although he knew they needed to leave now to reach where they would make camp before nightfall. They had decided not to push the animals too hard as they were heavily loaded and would travel 20 kilometers today and complete the remaining leg of the journey tomorrow.

He reached Lady Evelyn’s side a few moments later. She had heard Shane’s approach and had quickly set her expression. She turned to face him. “My Lady, “he began, “Tis time.” She replied quietly with an audible sigh, “Aye”. She watched closely as the final items were packed and loaded onto the carriages and horses. She turned abruptly on her heel and returned one last time to the castle that had been her home since she was born. She briskly checked each room one last time. As she gazed into each room, memories of her family flooded her mind; her Mother sewing, her father in his chair smoking his pipe, going over the accounts and her brothers running about in a game of chase or tag. She wanted nothing left for whomever’s footsteps would echo down these corridors after she was gone. Nothing for them to pilfer or taint that had belonged to her or her family.

As she gazed into each room, memories of her family flooded her mind; her Mother sewing in the her bedroom, her father in his chair smoking his pipe, or going over the accounts in the study, grandfather telling stories about his life, his family and Dunluce, her lessons in the nursery and her brothers running about in a game of chase or tag., the aroma’s and chatter of the staff in the galley, and the friendly banter of her family over meals in the hall. She looked upon the upper yard training field and she could see her brothers and Colla there working with the men-at-arms and pages. Her chest tightened and tears threatened to spill again. SheNext she came upon her bedroom that she had shared with Colla, she took a few deep breaths now then distractingto help distract her mind from her sad memories, then moved on quickly through the rest of the rooms and returned to the carriages mounting her horse quickly in preparation for their departure. With one last look toward the North Tower she bade farewell to Dunluce and her ancestors.

She turned to Shane to signal their roughly eighty men to move forward. She rode neither at the front nor at the back, but in the midst of her men. They were all very protective of her and respected her immensely. She knew each one of them and their families, too. As they began to move she turned to look back at the castle. All of the men knew her sadness at leaving. Many of them had seen her grow from a girl to a woman and some had even aspired to marry her one day. However, when the MacDonnells came and her alliance was fixed with Colla they were all astounded as to how her father could do this to her. They wondered how he could marry her to a man she didn’t know and couldn’t possibly love. They were already upset over the loss of Dunluce after their defeat to the MacDonnells and now Lord MacQuillen was marrying off the village sweetheart to their enemy. It was the talk of the village and castle. There had even been some talk of rebelling against Colla and the marriage. Many eyes watched closely when he began courting her. Slowly their rebellious feeling subsided and they began to respect him for what he was doing. They saw that although this marriage was one of duty and compromise, he wanted to make it right for both of them. On the day that they married the whole village witnessed the love that had grown between them and after the respect he gave their lady. When he died the whole village mourned bitterly, not only for the loss of their Lord, but for the loss of him as a neighbor and friend. She had become an integral part of their training and led them as well as LairdLord Colla had done. So, they protected her as they had protected their Laird.

They left the castle grounds through the gateway, moved across the bridge down into the village and finally made their way towards the forest which would lead them onwards toward Castle Kinbahn. They would make camp along the way just before nightfall, but needed to cover as much ground as possible today. As they journeyed forward she turned looking back at her home, then the village many times until she could see it no more. The journey ahead would be long and they had miles to go before they would make camp. She focused on the road ahead and prayed that they would have a safe passage.

The shade of the trees made the ride comfortable, but many things could hide among them and that worried Lady Evelyn. Shane had instructed all of the men-at-arms to keep alert for any possible enemies hiding in the forest. The further theythe travelled away from the Castle, the more determined Lady Evelyn became to prepare her men for the battle to return to her home. By the time they reached where they would camp for the night she was not only physically exhausted, but mentally drained as well. A tent was erected for her and the Castle cook began preparing the evening meal of soda bread and porridge. Lady Evelyn took rest while the camp made preparations for the night. Before long the cook was calling all the men to the meal and she joined them as was her habit since Colla’s death. The men chatted with each other about their families, tomorrows journey, future plans and joked occasionally making her smile. Once the meal was over, the men, prepared to retire and she returned to her tent. Guards were posted throughout the camp and soon all was silent except for the sounds of the birds and animals of the forest and the periodic sound of the guards moving about.

Lady Evelyn’s closed her eyes and as always, Colla appeared and her thoughts turned to memories with Colla. She spoke to him in her mind, “Aye, we are on our way to Kinbahn. ‘Tis true I know ye wouldna have been wanting this, but ye know there twasn’t no other choice.” She continued her discussion with him for some time and finally exhaustion over took her thoughts. Lady Evelyn was not a heavy sleeper and as the guard passed her tent she would listen to their footsteps. For tonight, it seemed they were safe.

Chapter 2 - Lady Evelyn

Home. For some people in the ton, a castle could never be more than a dwelling place, but for Lady Evelyn Dunluce Castle was home.

She was born at Dunluce Castle so it was only natural that the castle feel as part of her blood. Her earliest memories were of her family, her brothers and every minute of her life at the castle. As a child her morning was spent alongside her brothers being taught lessons of reading, writing and sums. Later when they would be taken for other lessons not permitted for her as a girl, she spend time with cook or with her Mother watching her make beautiful embroidered tapestries for the castle, outfits for father or her and her brothers. As she grew she also learned cooking, planning castle parties, embroidery and managing the household alongside her mother.

Lord MacQuillan loved all his children, but Lady Evelyn was his angel. He loved it when she followed him around the castle and it was hard for him to deny her anything. This why Lady Evelyn had learned the accounting of the castle and it was common to see her in armor practicing sword fighting with the knights of the castle alongside her brothers. Her father could not see tears in her eyes. He loved her with his life and the feeling was mutual. Lady Evelyn adored her father.

Her brothers, Edward, Roderick and Charles also doted on her and were eager participants of her various schemes. The siblings were very close and it was heartbreaking when the time came for Lady Evelyn's brothers to serve as Knights at other castle's as part of their training. Goodbyes were always difficult for them.

Chapter 3 - Lord Colla

Colla was also known as Alexander.

Chapter 4 - Compromise & Love

Her marriage to Colla had begun as a compromise. Her father could see no other way to save the Castle they all called home. The MacDonnells had usurped the title and Castle after they had defeated the MacQuillens in a battle and they had arrived shortly thereafter ready to move in. The Queen had not been pleased by the events, but her efforts to oust them had failed. Finally, the MacDonnell Clan submitted to the Queen’s authority and were confirmed. Castle Dunluce had been built by her family’s norman ancestor’s and they had lived there ever since. So, Lady Evelyn’s father was relieved when the MacDonnells accepted his proposal that she and Colla be married. His tensions were also somewhat relieved, as this union would bring peace to the MacQuillen clan that resided in the region.

Lady Evelyn was filled with uncertainty when she was told her of her upcoming marriage. It was her duty to her father and, to be honest she had expected it to be only that, a marriage of duty. Colla, however, wanted a marriage that was full of laughter and love. From the moment the marriage was announced, he began courting her. He would come to take her riding and for picnics in the lower yard’s vast fields and always with a flower or bouquet of them in his hand. He loved looking at her, would play with her braided hair telling her she looked like a maiden lass, not a betrothed women. Then his eyes would sparkle with devilishness. She could still hear him whisper, “Come here my maiden lass”, laughing into her eyes, just as if he was right beside her. It took her breath away and shook her to her soul.

He came one evening and sat below her window and began crooning lovely melodies. It created quite a stir among the villagers and the men-at-arms of the castle. She looked down, unable to stop herself, listening until he had finished. He explained to her later that this was a custom from his country, Scotland.

Sometimes they just walked through the fields talking, joking and laughing. Colla would pick flowers as they walked, weaving them into a crown for her to wear. Other days they would venture intovillage and visit some of merchants there. Colla loved life and he wanted her to love it with him. By the time her wedding day arrived she was in love with him. It no longer felt like a marriage of duty, but one of love. She walked down the aisle of St. Cuthbert’s towards Colla. Her blue eyes directly met his grey ones without breaking until she had reached his side. He was a large man, but that had never frightened her. Their similar appearance made everyone whisper that they were made for each other and they made a striking couple. His blond hair and piercing steel grey eyes made all the ladies wish he would choose them, but he only had eyes for Lady Evelyn. Even though it was common for men to keep mistresses, Colla would have none. After the ceremony, they all sat down at the celebratory meal he turned to her quietly and breathed into her ear, “At last, you are mine, fair Evelyn.” She turned to look at him and saw his eyes shimmering. She knew in that moment that she was going to be his forever and would be hers, too.

The merriment was still going on when he quietly escorted her to their bedroom. He must have noticed that she was beginning to tire, though thoroughly enjoying the merriment of the villagers at their reception dinner. When they reached his bedroom door she was surprised for a moment, but then realized this would now be her bedroom as well as the Mistress of the castle. He lifted her into his arms so quickly you would think she was a feather, and then carried her into the room and sat her down on the bed. He then secured the door and returned to sit beside her.

She turned and looked at him and found him watching her and felt butterflies dancing her stomach. He lifted his hand to trace the line of her face and then leaned in to kiss her forehead. She closed her eyes though her heart was racing and her hand shaking with her nervousness. His eyes scanned her face and he sensed she was a bit fearful. “Ma bonnie lassie,” he chuckled. “Ye’re looking mighty peely-wally. Ah’s not going to bite ye!” Then he broke into his booming laughter and before she knew it she was laughing, too!” Then she realized that things would be fine and set about changing into her nightwear that had been laid on the bed for her behind the screen. Colla sat and watched her, mesmerized once again by his beautiful wife. Once she was changed and had emerged again, they sat together near the burning fire. Colla ran his hands through her shining hair and then twisted it into a roll and let fall down her shoulder. He began dusting her neck and shoulders with light kisses that just made her body hum. At the same time his hand was rubbing her arms and back. She still was very nervous, but what he was doing was distracting her thoughts. Slowly he pulled her onto his lap and turned her to face him. It was then that he truly kissed her and her world spun. She had never been with a man or kissed before on the mouth and the sensations were amazing to her. She began to return his kisses and Colla nearly lost himself, so he put her back down into the chair while he stepped behind the changing screen to remove some of his clothing, too.

Colla believed that felt running the castle and safeguarding it should be everyone’s responsibility, including his wife. He knew that Lady Evelyn would be a great asset to him in this responsibility because Dunluce had belonged to her family for generations before it had come to him and his family. Her father also helped him from time to time. Colla did his best to share everything with her and frequently sought her counsel about managing the Castle including his security plan. She also shared her knowledge of the Castle with him. One night, he rolled with laughter when she told him about the ghost in the North East Tower, but a few nights later when he heard the ghostly cries he was startled. On that night shared with him the story of her great, great Aunt Moira – the ghost. “Now many years ago my father’s Great Aunt Moira fell in love with one of the knights”, she began. “Aunt Moira and the knight planned to marry. He was her first and only love. When her father came to know about the affair, he forbade her to see the Knight again. Later on, he sent the Knight to another castle in exchange for another Knight to ensure they never met again. He had wanted a better match for his daughter, but Great Aunt Moira was heartbroken. My father told me that she never recovered from her broken heart and even refused to marry any of the suitors who father brought and it is her spirit that haunts the tower still.” He seemed less disturbed after knowing the story and never spoke of it again.

He encouraged her to attend the training of their men and later wanted her to train as well. He wanted her to know everything he did and how to fight should she ever need to defend herself or the castle. She was glad he had insisted, especially now that he was gone.

After they had been training with the men for some time, Colla decided a short trip for field training would be good for the newer recruits and he decided to accompany them. During the trip they were ambushed by a neighboring clan. An arrow pierced him and he begun to bleed profusely. He tried to turn to see from where the attack came from and was struck in the leg by another arrow and then one assailant stabbed him with his sword, before his men retaliated and emerged victorious he was on the ground weakening as each second passed. He was wearing his chain mail and breast plate, but hadn’t worn his full armor as this was mere a training excursion. Afterwards his men rushed to his aid and bandaged some of the wounds as best they could.

They headed back to the castle and Lady Evelyn. A rider rode ahead and informed the Castle that Lord Colla had been injured, so the Castle physician was awaiting their return and immediately began treating Lord Colla. Lady Evelyn sat nearby watching and listening. Lord Colla had lost a lot of blood and some of the wounds were already infected. The physician made a salve for his wounds and advised fluids.

Lady Evelyn could tell that the physician was worried, but he said nothing more. She stayed with him as much as possible leaving him only to check that other areas of the Castle were running smoothly and to meet with unexpected visitors in Colla’s place. She hated leaving his side even for a minute and felt guilty knowing he needed her.

In addition to being by his side and caring for all of his injuries, she prayed fervently for his recovery. As each day passed she could see he wasn’t improving. She finally confronted the physician about Colla’s wounds. He looked away at first, hating to tell his mistress who was so in love with her Lord, that his injuries were severe and chances were high that he would never recover. Finally, she pleaded with the physician to tell her what to do to help Lord Colla. The physician sighed and looked at her. Seeing the desperation in her eyes, he shook his head and told her that in his experience there was nothing more they could do. Lady Evelyn broke down and began to sob. Trembling as she cried, she turned away walking towards the Chapel. She must have been there for almost 30 minutes praying and crying before she pulled herself together. She returned to her quarters to wash her face before she returned to her husband’s side.

Each day she would send an aid to the village to bring healers. Each would assess Lord Colla’s wounds as grave and could not offer more than words of comfort.

She pleaded with Lord Colla to fight to live and she could see he was trying, but also that he was losing the battle even then. He would nod and whisper words of comfort to her. “Aye there, lassie, Colla will be with you forever, don’t worry.” or “Tsk, tsk you’ve gotten dark circles ‘neath your blue eyes, go take rest”, she couldn’t leave his side and wouldn't not even for a moment. Each day he grew weaker and frailer. She called the village doctors and they had given him brewed herbal remedies and applied poultices, but none of these had helped. One day he didn’t awaken and his breathing became raspy, she knew then that he was leaving her. Within days he was gone from her forever. His death nearly killed her as well as him. She was so distraught she wouldn't eat and couldn't sleep.

Chapter 5 - Surviving

In the days following his death, the castle routine went unchanged. While she grieved, his men continued the routine he had put in place. The routine was their way of honoring Colla and in some ways it let them grieve. After a few weeks, she began taking on Colla’s responsibilities. In some ways, it helped her and often she would not realize how the day had passed. None of their army felt his absence because she maintained everything just as he had, just as they had together.

Night time was the hardest for her. She would climb into the huge bed she had shared with Colla and stare at where he used to sleep next to her. Just before sunrise her eys would grow heavy and sleep would come. She would sleep for an hour or two before the trumpets sounded at dawn. She was shattered and lonely; only the daily routine of the castle kept her going.

As the days passed her sleeping improved, but she still felt very connected to him. Some mornings she would partially awaken, turn towards him reaching out to touch him. When her arm encountered the coldness of the bed beside her, her eyes would open and her heart would remember he was gone. He would visit her in her dreams and she still had discussions with him in her mind, though one-sided. He was still very much a part of her. She knows heart will never forget him and she couldn’t imagine any other life than the one she’d had with him. She is thankful for the time she spends training with the men as this has provided a comforting, routine distraction.

Lady Evelyn of Dunluce knew she was no weakling. Even though the loss of Colla has made her sad, she was still a strong and determined leader. Her father and Colla had made certain that she had all the skills necessary and the respect of their army. It was frustrating, that although the Castle had been given to Colla by the crown, now that he was gone she had no right to it. Irish law dictated that a widow could not inherit her husband’s property and she knew the crown wouldn’t accept a woman as the Chieftan of the Route due to it being a strategic defense point. She also knew it would be foolhardy to go to war with their enemies without proper preparation and the possibility of regaining Dunluce. For now, she knew her best option was to take her army and all that belonged to her as well as her family and leave Dunluce. They would travel to another of Colla’s castles, Castle Kinbahn to train and gather more men until they were ready to retake Dunluce.

Chapter 6 - Lord Sean O'Neil

Shane watched her from inside the castle. He was the Constable of the Castle and led all of the army of the castle. He watched Lady Evelyn’s robes blowing in the wind making a spectacular scene. Though the castle was secure because of its strategic location, Lady Evelyn knew that would not stop other clans from attacking to try to gain the title. Their army had dwindled down to a mere 80 men since the battle that Clan MacQuillen had with the MacDonnells. Colla had been recruiting men from nearby villages.

Shane had grown up in the viillage and his father had been a black smith to the MacQuillen when Lady Evelyn's father had been Lord. He began training with the knights of the castle when he was a lad and when he was old enough he entered the castle ranks. After Lady Evelyn's marriage to Colla, the new Lord appointed him as Constable. Colla knew he could depend on Shane to take care of the Castle and oversee the army. Since his appointment, Shane and the Lord had become good friends up to the last day. The Lord had called him to him when Lady Evelyn wasn't present at his bedside when he knew he wasn't going to survive. He told him to look out for his beloved Evelyn when was gone and to protect her until his last day. Shane had promised he would. A few days later when Colla expired, Shane knew it was up to him from that day on to watch over Lady Evelyn.

As soon as the packing was completed and everything loaded onto the carriages, they would begin the 32 kilometer journey to Castle Kinbahn. This was another of their properties, but not many knew of it because of its location and Colla had the Castle built e not that long ago. It was situated on a long, narrow limestone headland projecting into the sea, approximately 5 kilometers from Ballycastle on the road to Ballintoy , so she thought they would be safe there for a while. The Constable (is this Shane?) watched the play of emotions across her face HOW?, the from his post just inside doors of the castle from the tower, her inner struggle all apparent even though he knew she was trying her best to conceal it.

Leaving Castle Dunluce was a difficult decision and he knew she was still strugglingbattling with herself to not to breakdown from her sorrow at a leaving her home., her memories of her life and her marriage. Her capes blew behind her in the strong gales coming off the sea and he saw her closing her eyes and absorbing all the sensations surrounding her. He stepped back to allow his Lady a few more minutes to herself although he knew they needed to leave now to reach where they would make camp before nightfall. They had decided not to push the animals too hard as they were heavily loaded and would travel 20 kilometers today and complete the remaining leg of the journey tomorrow.

Chapter 7 - Farewell Dunluce

She watched closely as the final items were packed and loaded onto the carriages and horses. She turned abruptly on her heel and returned one last time to the castle that had been her home since she was born. She briskly checked each room one last time. As she gazed into each room, memories of her family flooded her mind; her Mother sewing, her father in his chair smoking his pipe, going over the accounts and her brothers running about in a game of chase or tag in her bedroom or in the study, grandfather telling stories about his life, his family and Dunluce, her lessons in the nursery , the aroma’s and chatter of the staff in the galley, and the friendly banter of her family over meals in the hall. She looked upon the upper yard training field and she could see her brothers and Colla there working with the men-at-arms and pages.

Her chest tightened and tears threatened to spill again. She came upon her bedroom that she had shared with Colla, she took a few deep breaths now then to help distract her mind from her sad memories, then moved on quickly through the rest of the rooms and returned to the carriages. Mounting her horse quickly in preparation for their departure.. She wanted nothing left for whomever’s footsteps would echo down these corridors after she was gone. With one last look toward the North Tower she bade farewell to Dunluce and her ancestors.

She turned to Shane to signal their roughly eighty men to move forward. She rode neither at the front nor at the back, but in the midst of her small army of fifty men. They were all very protective of her and respected her immensely. She knew each one of them and their families, too. As they began to move she turned to look back at the castle. All of the men knew her sadness at leaving. Many of them had seen her grow from a girl to a woman and some had even aspired to marry her one day. When the MacDonnells came and her alliance was fixed with Colla they were all astounded as to how her father could do this. Though her family knew there was no other option, the villagers just saw the celebrations and toasting. They had no sense that their Laird saw no choice, but to marry his daughter to Colla or live in penury. So, they wondered how Lord MacQuillan could marry her to a man she didn’t know and couldn’t possibly love. That coupled with the loss of Dunluce after their defeat to the MacDonnells made the villagers very wary of the MacDonnells. It was the talk of the village and castle. There had even been some talk of rebelling against Colla and the marriage. Many eyes watched closely when he began courting her. Slowly their rebellious feeling subsided and they began to respect him for what he was doing. They saw that although this marriage was one of duty and compromise, he wanted to make it right for both of them. On the day that they married the whole village witnessed the love that had grown between them and after the respect he gave their lady. When he died the whole village mourned bitterly, not only for the loss of their Lord, but for the loss of him as a neighbor and friend. She had become an integral part of their training and led them as well as LairdLord Colla had done. So, they protected her as they had protected their Laird.

The shade of the trees made the ride comfortable, but many things could hide among them and that worried Lady Evelyn. Shane had instructed all of the men-at-arms to keep alert for any possible enemies hiding in the forest. The further theythe travelled from the Castle, the more determined Lady Evelyn became to prepare her men for the battle to return to her home. By the time they reached where they would camp for the night she was not only physically exhausted, but mentally drained as well. A tent was erected for her and the Castle cook began preparing the evening meal .. Lady Evelyn took rest while the camp made preparations for the night. Before long the cook was calling all the men to the meal and she joined them as was her habit since Colla’s death. The men talked on various topics, news about their families, rumors about the King at court, plans for the coming journey and joked occasionally making her smile. Once the meal was over, the men prepared to retire and she returned to her tent. Guards were posted throughout the camp and soon all was silent except for the sounds of the birds and animals of the forest and the periodic sound of the guards moving about.

Chapter 8 - The New Lord

Lady Evelyn’s thoughts turned to memories with Colla. She spoke to him in her mind, “Aye, we are on our way to Kinbahn. ‘Tis true I know ye wouldn’twouldna have been wanting this, but ye know there twasn’t no other choice.” She continued her discussion with him for some time and finally exhaustion overtook her thoughts. Lady Evelyn was not a heavy sleeper and as the guard passed her tent she would listen to his their footsteps. For tonight, it seemed they were safe.

Not too far away, another camp was also being settled for the night. Here the soldiers were preparing for a battle to take Castle Dunluce. Sean Hugh O’Neill sat in his tent with his Constable and a few of the Men-At-Arms. They had a map of the Castle and were laying plans for their attack to take the Castle. Sean explained to his men that entrance to the castle was only through the gate tower and that more than likely the guards would be posted here. The men-at-arms looked at the map to determine how they could approach the castle best, but there seemed to be only one way in. The men continued to discuss until the wee hours and then retired for a few hours rest before they would head off toward the castle. Sean Hugh O’Neill and his men were still unaware that the castle was now empty. Sean Hugh had sent two of his pages ahead to scout, but they would not return until after daylight. The camp had settled now and Sean’s thought wandered towards the day ahead. He was not a cruel leader generally, but when the Queen had requested him to take over the Ccastle Dunluce now that when she had received word of Colla’s death, he had no choice but to move. Colla MacDonnell had no male heir and she knew his wife was not equipped to protect the border point where Dunluce sat,, so it was not possible for Dunluce to remain without a Lord. The crown needed to pass the title and responsibility on to a new Lord.

Sean Hugh O’Neill had been brought up in the household of the Earl of Leister and attended Queen Elizabeth’s Court. He was already Earl of Tyrone a title that he inherited from his brother Shane. At this moment he had no idea what his army would face on their arrival at Castle Dunluce and he hoped that his transition as Lord of the Route would come without too much resistance. had been her choice and so now he was heading to Castle Dunluce with his army to to remove Colla’s widow, Lady Evelyn. He hoped that she wouldn’t fight him and would give up the castle easily. He really didn’t relish going to war with a woman, but if that was the route she chose he would meet her head on. He had heard tales that she was as strong a warrior and leader as Colla had been and it worried him that she might not give in easily. The stories of Lady Evelyn had travelled to him when he visited court and when vistors came to Tyrone from Antrim.

The sun began its ascent on the horizon. Lady Evelyn rose quietly,; washed with the pot of water she kept for that purpose and did her morning prayers. She could hear the sounds of the camp stirring and the smells that told her that cook was already preparing the morning meal. She packed up her few belongings and asked Shane to have the men take down her tent. She went over to the horses and tied her small satchel onto her horse and then joined the men for a breakfast of porridge and milk. The camp was quickly cleared and soon they were again on their way toward Castle Kinbahn. With luck they would reach the castle before nightfall.

Chapter 9 - Castle Kinbahn

Lady Evelyn looked out across the sea as the group paused while the army checked the area surrounding to be sure all was safe. They had arrived just as the sun was setting into the water. Lady Evelyn could see the shore of Scotland and understood why Colla chose to build the castle here. This castle was smaller than Dunluce, but it seemed they all would be safe here.

The group began the descent down to the castle on foot leading their horses by their reins. While the men began unloading the horses, Lady Evelyn entered the Castle tower with the few ladies who had accompanied the group. The tower seemed to have two floors. As Lady Evelyn continued her exploration, the ladies began to clean to castle that had be closed up for nearly 4 years.

Shane watched as Lady Evelyn explored her new home making notes of his Lady's needs for each of the rooms. Finally, Lady Evelyn locates what will be her room. She request Shane to have the ladies come to clean and requests that the men bring her bedding up as well. Then she heads back down to the courtyard to see how things are progressing. Most of the horses have been unloaded and are being wiped down and walked to the stables. The cook was setting up the kitchen and beginning to prepare a meal for the evening. As the men had hunted as they were nearing the castle they would feast on a stew of squirrel with vegetables tonight.

Satisfied with the progress, Lady Evelyn returned to the Castle and made her way back to her room. She found that her room was already cleaned and the bedding laid for her. Also, her bags had been upacked for her and a supply of bathing water brought into the room. It felt wonderful to bathe and change after her two day journey. Later, hearing the castle sounds return to normal she headed down hoping that all were settling to have the evening meal. It was nearly midnight and the sun had set about an hour ago, Lady Evelyn was beyond exhausted. As she approached the courtyard, she saw everyone had begun to have their meal and she happily joined them. The stew was delicious and gratefully consumed by all. She could hear the men discussing returning to training routines on the morrow and hoped she would join them as well. She stayed to listen a while longer until Shane noticed she nearly asleep on her feet and took her to her room. She mused at why she was feeling so exhausted briefly and then fell into a peaceful sleep with visions of Colla smiling down on her.

The castle dwellers all settled down for the night with the guard dutifully watching over the grounds, the sea playfully bouncing against the rocks and the stars twinkling overhead.

Chapter 10 - Castle Dunluce

As Sean and his army began their approach toward the castle it seemed the air was quiet, in fact too quiet. Sean signaled for them to stop. He called his Constable to him and asked him to send a few men ahead to scout the area. He was afraid they were heading into a trap and wondered if Lady Evelyn would really stoop to trickery to keep her hold.

He dismounted and told the men to do the same. Until the scouts returned he was not going to move forward.

Imprint

Text: Lori Imdad
Images: Lori Imdad
Editing: n/a
Publication Date: 10-31-2013

Dedication:
To my husband for accompany me to literary circle meetings though he had better things to do. My son for all his encouragement spiced with sarcasm. To the members of TypO+ for all their suggestions.

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