From the Sea

Ciaran loped across the field toward home. He knew Eoghan would have a fit upon learning his son’s midnight absence, but a reprimand was no matter in the face of attack from --

Ciaran cast a glance across the wide seas. The longships sliced through the water toward the shore like so many arrows coming to pierce the land. Down on the sand, Brenna’s band of warriors looked pathetic and tiny in comparison.

Eoghan came awake when Ciaran flung open the front door.

“Da, rouse the village - raiders are coming! From the sea!”

Eoghan blinked. “What?” Then he saw Ciaran’s sword.