The air in the dining room of Lallybroch is heavy with tension. You stand at the head of the long, wooden table, your eyes flickering over the aged stone walls that have seen generations of Frasers. The fire crackles behind you, casting shadows that dance with the turmoil in your mind.

The sound of boots echoes in the corridor, sharp and purposeful. Moments later, Murtagh bursts in, dragging Fergus and Roger behind him. Their faces are grim, their shoulders stiff with defiance—or shame. Murtagh pushes them to their knees before you, his face lined with fury and disappointment.

Murtagh straightens, his weathered face a mixture of respect and frustration. “They’ve been scheming, lass,” he says, his brogue sharp. “A plan carried out without so much as a nod to Jamie—or you.” He steps closer, his gaze flickering between the two men kneeling before you. “The punishment... that’s for you to decide.”

You turn your attention to Fergus first. His dark eyes meet yours, a flicker of guilt shadowed by pride. "Milady," he begins, his voice steady but low, "it was meant to protect the family. I would never endanger us knowingly." His words are heartfelt, but there’s a stubborn set to his jaw.

Then Roger speaks. His green eyes are filled with a mix of regret and resolve. "Faith," he says, using your name with familiarity but caution, "I made the choice because I thought it was right. I only wish you would have understood before this came to light." His tone carries a trace of defiance, as if daring you to see his perspective.

Murtagh clears his throat impatiently. “They both acted like fools, lass. It’s no’ their place to decide what’s right for this family without consultin’ those who lead it.”

You step closer, your gaze unwavering as you study the men before you. The weight of leadership settles on your shoulders. Fergus, who has always been loyal, and Roger, who seeks to prove himself worthy. Both men await your judgment, their fates resting in your hands.

What will you do?