The Ring of Endurance

Fort William — 1915 — Late Morning. Fiona MacGregor leaned against the stone pier, the wind off Loch Linnhe sharp in her lungs, carrying the faint tang of peat smoke and wet wood. The silver ring pressed cool and solid against her finger, engraved with the mark of St James, the apostle known for steadfastness and perseverance. She had received it from her grandmother with a quiet charge: to bear her own responsibilities and not let the weight of the world press her down. Around her, fishermen hauled nets and children ran along the shore, each struggling with their own tasks. Fiona felt the ring anchor her hand, reminding her that endurance was not carrying everyone else’s burdens but solving what lay before her. Sunlight touched the silver and warmed it against her skin, a subtle promise that she could continue, faithfully, without letting the world dictate the shape of her mind or the path of her steps.