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Ra his chin “When ye say it like that it does sound absurd But what other explanation is there? Since she er from abroad, she’s nae been the same”

“You’ve every right to be suspicious of me” Isla’s croaky voice drifted out from the doorway

They all turned to face her She hung back in the shadows, looked gaunt, far too pale She had tied her unkeripped the corners of the blanket draped over her shoulders

“You’re not well,” Lachlan said, trying to keep the sense of panic from his voice “You should stay inside where it is warm”

“I can e Come Let me take your arm, Lachlan”

He ?” he whispered through gritted teeth

“I’ an end to this once and for all”

Fear dug its claws into his heart “But what if—”

She clutched his arm “I am cured, Lachlan There’s no need to worry”

Despite her words of confidence, he still held his breath and shivered with trepidation as she stepped out into the bailey

Ra beneath the rays of the midday sun He inclined his head “Ye knoe’ve come?”

“Youyou by na to settle “I have an illness that impairs my vision It is worse when the sun is up I’m afraid today is a particularly bad day, and I cannot see a thing”

Raaze and stared at her “We knew nothing of yer illness”

“I’m ashamed to say that ht, even te”

“Can you nae see anything?” Fraser asked peering at her