Chapter 42: Last Will, Banquet and Secrets (rewrite)

King Uther continued to speak solemnly, "I have three great regrets in my life, and I may need your help to address them."

Lott remained silent, contemplating the gravity of Uther's words. Despite the situation, he was determined to fulfil the king's final wishes, recognizing both Uther's position as a monarch and his role as Morgan's father.

"You may proceed," Lott encouraged.

Uther began with his first regret. "Firstly, the issue with Vortigern has only been temporarily resolved. Although his territory has diminished, as long as he remains alive, he continues to be a threat."

Lott assured Uther, "For the sake of Morgan's happiness and our future, I will ensure that Vortigern is dealt with permanently."

Uther nodded in approval, grateful for Lott's commitment. He then presented his second regret. "Secondly, Britain is not only inhabited by humans. Fairies and other non-human entities pose a distinct threat. They will never be kind to us, so be cautious and prevent them from gaining power."

"Rest assured, Britain will belong to Camelot, and I will ensure that fairies do not become a threat," Lott promised.

Finally, Uther addressed his last concern with a more personal tone. "Take care of Morgan for me."

Lott responded firmly, "Morgan is my wife, and I will ensure her well-being."

Uther seemed relieved, but a hint of concern remained. "I appreciate that. And don't worry, regardless of who becomes the next king, I will make sure Morgan remains unharmed."

Uther's acknowledgement of Lott's awareness about Altria, Morgan's sister, was evident. Lott had realized Uther's motives and understood the importance of protecting both his wife and her sister.

Uther, feeling he might not have reciprocated sufficiently, offered, "Since my health can still sustain me for a while, is there anything else I can assist you with?"

Lott, after considering, said, "Actually, there is one more thing. Could you give Merlin another good punch to ensure both his eyes are black and blue?"

Uther's face lit up with a mischievous grin. "That's quite an easy task. I'd be happy to oblige."

With that, Lott and Uther discussed the specifics of delivering a thorough beating to Merlin, finding some humour in the prospect.

Later, Lott and Morgan returned to their residence. Lott expected Morgan to be preparing for the evening's event, entangled in choosing her attire. However, he found her in a simple dress, gazing thoughtfully out of the window.

"Lott, is something wrong with my father?" she asked.

Lott, trying to maintain a positive demeanour, replied with a reassuring smile, "No, he's fine. Look, if he can still give Merlin a vigorous punch, it means he's in decent health. Whatever you heard is just gossip. Don't worry."

Despite Lott's attempt to reassure her, Morgan's concern was evident. She discreetly wiped a tear from her eye, not wanting to burden Lott further.

Morgan decided to maintain a brave face for Lott, masking her fears. "Well, if I was misled, I'll deal with it after the banquet. And then I'll make sure Merlin gets a good beating for causing trouble."

Lott agreed wholeheartedly. "Indeed, a proper beating is in order."

As they shared a knowing look, the unspoken understanding brought them closer together.

Morgan then asked, "Lott, come here. I need a hug."

"Of course," Lott replied, embracing her warmly.

Feeling the comfort of Lott's embrace, Morgan reflected, Lott, from now on, you are my only support. I am your wife.

Dressed elegantly in evening attire, Morgan and Lott arrived at King Uther's palace, now transformed into a vibrant city of celebrations. The streets of Chalk City were alive with festivities, celebrating the victory of the recent battle.

The banquet hall was abuzz with nobility and merriment. As Morgan and Lott entered, all eyes were on them, making them the centre of attention.

Morgan sampled some of the food and grimaced, "Lott, the food here is truly lacklustre. It's nowhere near as good as what we have at home."

"I agree," Lott responded, equally unimpressed.

King Uther, now visibly recovering from his previous altercation with Merlin, took his place at the head of the table. Merlin's eyes were distinctly bruised, a testament to Uther's earlier promise.

"Welcome, everyone," Uther began, raising his glass. "Tonight, we celebrate our victory."

He paused for effect before continuing, "But I also have another important announcement. I intend to pass the land under my rule to my daughter, Morgan."

A murmur of shock spread through the audience. The nobility struggled to comprehend the startling news.

One nobleman finally voiced his concern, "Your Majesty, how can you give the realm to your daughter? She is just a woman! How can she inherit such power?"

Uther's face hardened with a mix of irritation and resolve. Morgan, meanwhile, faced a daunting challenge as she prepared to inherit her father's legacy amidst opposition and uncertainty.