“Let us remember this day!” Duncan called. “For we’ve shown what it means to be of Clan McAfee!”

“And Clan McClain!” Lachlan called to laughter.

Cheers erupted again, lifting into the cool Highland air, carrying triumph and whispers of an enduring legacy.

Moira and Ailis retreated to the alcove, the noise of victory muted by stone walls. Clasping hands, they shared a meaningful silence before speaking.

“Today we’ve created legends,” Ailis said, her healer’s heart aching. “But at what cost? For every cheer, there’s a mother who weeps or a child who’ll know only tales of their father.”

“War is cruel,” Moira replied somberly. “Our kin fought treachery, but uncertainty remains.” Her grip on Ailis’s hand tightened as she felt the weight of responsibility.

“True,” Ailis murmured, “loyalty binds us to family and hard choices that protect our clan. Remember, it’s not just the sword that keeps us safe, but bonds forged in peace.”

“Peace… That’s the dream I’ll fight for,” Moira vowed.

“Let’s hope today brought us closer to that dream,” Ailis said, releasing Moira’s hand. Their eyes mirrored unspoken fears and hopes.