They left the burn without exchanging many words and sought out a more comfortable spot near the edge of a clearing in the forest. The undulating hills rose around them, but Jamie had chosen a higher vantage point that offered a clear view of the road leading from the village. Dusk momentarily enhanced the colours of the countryside as if illuminating the land with precious gems. Emerald hues shimmered in the hollows, shadowed amethyst graced the clumps of heather, and burning rubies adorned the red-berried rowan trees that crowned the hills. Rowan berries - known for their protective properties against witchcraft. In the far distance, the outline of Castle Leoch remained faintly visible at the base of Ben Aden. But as the light waned, the castle’s image quickly faded away.