Chapter 138: The Queen of Shadows and the Aftermath

The Unexpected Encounter and a Battle's Aftermath

As Vortigern's gaze fell upon Skáthach, his expression darkened with rage. The appearance of this woman at such a critical moment was a direct blow to his pride. It was akin to a slap in the face—an unforgivable insult. The sight of someone undermining his authority only fueled his anger.

"What do you hate most when you're trying to show off?" Vortigern seethed. "It's when someone comes along and ruins your act. That's what this woman is doing to me now."

Despite his fury, Vortigern couldn't ignore the formidable presence Skáthach exuded. Her strength was palpable, and it made him wary. "Who are you? Where did you come from?" he demanded.

Skáthach, levelling her spear at him, replied calmly, "I am the teacher of these knights, and His Majesty King Lott is my brother-in-law. Shouldn't I be here to help him?"

The revelation infuriated Vortigern. "Really? Then today will be your death day."

Skáthach's eyes lit up with a mischievous smile. "Is that so? Then you must make it happen. Can a man say he can't do something?" she taunted.

With a roar of frustration, Vortigern charged at her, sword raised. Despite his angry outburst, Vortigern attacked with caution. The woman before him was the most formidable opponent he had ever faced, and he needed to be careful.

Skáthach met his attack with a swift parry, her spear clashing against his sword. She took a step back, while Vortigern was forced to retreat several steps. The disparity in their strength was evident.

"It seems you're all talk," Skáthach remarked with a disappointed tone. "Your strength is notable, but you won't be able to kill me."

Vortigern's frustration grew. He realized that Skáthach's strength was not just on par with his own but possibly surpassing it. His attacks, despite their intensity, were being effortlessly deflected.

"Where are you from?" Vortigern shouted, struggling to keep up with her relentless defence.

"Why are you shouting so much?" Skáthach responded with a hint of irritation. "But if you must know, I am from the Kingdom of Shadows."

Vortigern's eyes widened in surprise. "The Kingdom of Shadows... Are you the queen of that kingdom?"

"Yes, that's me," Skáthach confirmed with a nod.

With the revelation of her identity, the balance of the fight shifted. Vortigern, now on the defensive, struggled to cope with Skáthach's superior skill and strength. In a desperate move, he made a hasty retreat, barely escaping.

The battle concluded with Lott's forces emerging victorious. However, the victory was short-lived for Lott as he faced a new problem.

"My dear sister," Skáthach said with a hint of mischief, "to help you, she went and spread the rumour that Vortigern called me an old woman. How would you feel if it were you?"

Lott's face stiffened as he realized the gravity of the situation. "No way?" he asked, bewildered.

Skáthach continued, "So, what will you explain to me, my brother-in-law?"

Lott, feeling the pressure, gritted his teeth. "Alright, I asked Morgan to do this. I told her that if there was a critical situation, she should use this tactic. All the responsibility is mine."

"If you want to blame someone, blame me," he said resolutely. "But once this is over, I expect some compensation from you."

"Haha, I believe if I were to tell Morgan the same thing, I'd get a completely different reaction from her," Skáthach said with a laugh. She then set her weapon aside and addressed Lott, "Though I am a bit upset about being called an old woman, it's not worth dwelling on."

Skáthach turned to the crowd and continued, "Let's move on. This battle was quite entertaining. After all this excitement, it's time for a good meal and drink. I've been craving a feast since we last parted."

Lott, feeling slightly embarrassed, responded, "We're in a rush, and we only have dry rations available."

A surprised exclamation came from Altria. "What? There's nothing to eat?"

Altria, who had expected a proper meal after the battle, was dismayed to learn there was only dry food. Her face fell as she patted her empty stomach. "No, isn't there anything else?"

Seeing Altria's disappointed expression, Lott, Skáthach, and others couldn't help but chuckle. Even Galahad, who had been deeply involved in the battle, smiled at the situation.

"To guard the present and ensure everyone's well-being is the true happiness," Galahad thought, finding solace in the camaraderie and humour amidst the chaos of battle.