Chapter 135: The Siege of Determination: Facing Vortigern's Onslaught

The previous tactics used to deal with the castle were no longer viable. Vortigern's forces, having seen through the ambush strategy, were now prepared for a direct assault. King Marko, bewildered by how quickly their plans had been exposed, turned to Vortigern. "Your strategy was uncovered in just one day? What's our next move?"

Vortigern, confident in his strategic acumen, replied, "I'll devise a plan to counteract Lott's methods. I suspect he has already arrived."

Vortigern prided himself on his cunning and was self-assured in his tactical abilities. He believed that his niece and son-in-law, Lott, were the only ones who could rival him in strategic brilliance. Hearing Vortigern's confident assertion, King Marko exclaimed, "So soon!?"

"Yes," Vortigern continued. "It appears Lott led a small contingent of soldiers early on. The attack last night indicated that his forces are limited. We should strike hard and fast, then withdraw."

King Marko inquired further, "And what exactly should we do now?"

Vortigern answered decisively, "It's simple. We'll launch a full-scale assault on the castle."

When strategic parity is lacking between opponents, the solution often lies in overwhelming force. With superior numbers, Vortigern was confident that sheer strength would carry the day. His self-assurance was evident, even as he prepared for the battle.

Soon, Lott observed from his vantage point as Vortigern's army assembled before the castle. "The enemy is preparing for a serious attack," he said to Altria, his tone grave.

Chapter 116: Fu Tigeng: Why Are All the Powerful People on the Enemy's Side?

A dark cloud loomed over the city as Vortigern abandoned all subterfuge and opted for a direct, forceful assault. Lott, despite his calm demeanour, felt a deep sense of foreboding. This was the most lopsided battle he had ever faced.

Even with the losses Vortigern suffered from the night raid, his forces still numbered around 26,000. In stark contrast, Lott had only about 200 knights and a few hundred more soldiers stationed in the castle. Defending against 25,000 troops with fewer than 600 men was a daunting task. Reinforcements were still too far off to make a significant difference in the short term.

Lott addressed his troops with a steely resolve, "This is our final position. We cannot retreat. I will guard this castle with you. We will not take a step back until we've defeated the enemy. This is either the enemy's graveyard or our own."

In times of crisis, the stability of leadership becomes crucial. If Lott showed panic, it would only spread among his men. Tristan, ever practical, leaned over to Altria and whispered, "If the situation becomes dire, remember to knock His Majesty unconscious and escape with him. It's important to preserve the king."

Altria, puzzled, responded, "But didn't His Majesty declare that he would stand by the castle no matter what? Shouldn't we honour that?"

Tristan replied, "The castle is important, but the king's safety is paramount. His decision to stay is his own, but we must focus on our duties."

Galahad, overhearing the conversation, interjected, "Knight Tristan, we shouldn't be so pessimistic. Perhaps we can still turn the tide."

"Maybe," Tristan conceded, "but we must prepare for the worst-case scenario."

Galahad, though excited about facing such a formidable opponent, felt a mix of nervousness and anticipation. He was eager to prove himself but was also acutely aware of the challenge ahead.

Vortigern, observing Lott's resolute stance, felt a mix of admiration and frustration. Despite his formidable strength, he found Lott's strategic prowess impressive. "Why is he Uther's son-in-law and not mine?" Vortigern mused aloud.

A subordinate, sensing Vortigern's mood, reminded him, "Your Majesty, you have never been married."

The reminder visibly irritated Vortigern, who then snapped, "Attack the enemy's position now!"

With that command, his troops began their advance. Vortigern, watching the assault, offered Lott a challenge. "You're in a desperate situation. I'll offer you a chance to change that. If you come down and challenge me to a duel, I will ensure the siege is lifted if you defeat me."

Lott, unimpressed by Vortigern's bravado, responded with a smirk, "I rely on my wits, not just my fists. Vortigern, you lack this understanding. Understand, tut tut..."

Vortigern, though momentarily deflated by Lott's dismissive response, admired his adversary's strategy and resolve. "You're indeed a worthy opponent," he conceded. "Even if I break the castle, I'll capture you and find a use for your talents."

Resolute in his ambition to become a king of kings, Vortigern prepared for the final assault, ordering, "Begin the siege!"

With Vortigern's command, the siege machinery, including massive stone-throwing ballistas acquired from the Roman Empire, began its operation. The ballistas launched heavy boulders towards the castle with forceful impacts.

Lott, observing the incoming projectiles, warned his soldiers, "Watch the skies!"

As the boulders rained down, Lott could only curse under his breath, realizing the sheer scale of the challenge before him. With the castle under siege and his men forced to take cover, the true test of endurance and strategy had begun.