title: Ness's Bane
author: De Lune, Clair
description: When Muireall, a dragon shape-shifter, is pursued by Ness, she tries to deny her attraction to him and refuses to agree to be his mate. But Ness won't take no for an answer, and she finally gives in to his charms. When they return to Darroch Keep on Loch Ness, trouble awaits in the form of Macbethad, who wants to be Clan chieftain. In an attempt to dispose of Ness, Macbethad decides to kidnap Muireall but is foiled, and a battle in the loch ensues. Amidst the chaos, several of the Clan's women have lost their babies. Ness, fearing for Muireall's health, is not allowing her to become pregnant, so Muireall has to take drastic action.