The Mysterious Town
Gawain couldn't help but notice that the food her father prepared didn't look as appealing as that of others. For professional tasks, it's best to leave them to the experts, she mused.
This morning, brandishing Excalibur, she spotted Lott and Morgan coming out, neatly dressed. She quickly sheathed her sword and rushed over.
"Dad!"
"Ah, Gawain! No need to be so formal. We've just won a great victory; we should celebrate!" Lott said, stepping aside slightly to maintain a distance from his towering daughter.
It wasn't that he disliked her; rather, he felt a twinge of pride mixed with embarrassment. As her father, I shouldn't be overshadowed by my child!
He glanced at the time—this was the moment Gawain was blessed. Even Lancelot in his prime wouldn't stand a chance against her now. Lott sighed, If she hugged me, I'd be utterly ashamed. The people would wonder how the King got carried back by his daughter!
Meanwhile, Morgan watched Lott's subtle movements, stifling a laugh. She shifted slightly, conscious of the height difference that would only draw more attention. How can our daughter be so tall? she thought, stealing glances at Altria as she walked out.
Is it possible our family genetics are just overachieving? Morgan's eyes conveyed the thought.
I don't recall this being the case, Lott retorted silently, exchanging looks with Morgan.
I mean, look at Altria! She's still underage, Morgan countered with her eyes.
But isn't Gawain still just a child? Lott replied internally, contemplating how their daughter was already 1.9 meters tall and capable of incredible feats.
"Father, Mother, what are you two exchanging glances about?" Gawain interrupted, her curiosity piqued.
Lott, feeling playful, ruffled Gawain's hair. "You're interrupting the adults, little one. Why don't you go play?"
Gawain lowered her head but couldn't suppress a grin.
Lott and Morgan exchanged eye rolls. This playful banter is getting old; we need a change of pace, Morgan suggested silently.
Agreed, Lott thought back.
But Gawain is quite entertaining. Compared to our other child, who's as dull as a rock, at least she keeps us on our toes.
Morgan nodded internally, fearing the day their second child would be as monotonous as the Ager rule.
At that moment, Altria approached them. "Sires, everything is ready. We can depart whenever you wish."
"Great! Altria, please lead Galahad and the knights ahead to the palace. See if Bedivere and Kay need assistance," Lott instructed after a moment of thought.
"But Your Majesty, what about your safety?" Altria asked hesitantly.
Lott waved his hand dismissively. "I've got Gawain and Morgan with me. Do you think we're in any danger?"
"Fair point," Altria conceded, nodding in agreement.
As she departed, Lott turned to Morgan with a twinkle in his eye. "Let's make sure to enjoy the scenery on our way back. We rushed through last time."
"Absolutely. Let's relax this time," Morgan agreed, her eyes brightening.
Just as they were about to indulge in some sweet talk, Gawain sidled up to them.
Lott and Morgan exchanged glances and simultaneously raised their fists, playfully tapping Gawain on the head.
With Gawain growing taller and stronger, they found it easier to tease her without worry.
Altria and the knights departed first, while Lott, Morgan, and Gawain leisurely travelled through the landscape.
As they journeyed, their small party soon turned into a quartet as the Ager rule began to manifest.
This delighted all three of them.
However, upon reaching a town that had been ravaged by Vortigern's earlier attacks, Lott and Morgan frowned in unison.
"This doesn't feel right," Lott murmured.
"What's wrong?" Gawain asked, noticing their expressions.
"It's not just unusual; it's downright bizarre," Morgan added.
Before them stood a town that had been entirely rebuilt. The buildings looked as though they had sprung up overnight, made from brand-new stones. It wasn't just a temporary setup; they could see establishments like hotels, grocery stores, and even taverns.
This was an ordinary town that suffered Vortigern's destruction, Lott thought. It's impossible to reconstruct everything so quickly!
He frowned, deep in thought. Not even magic could account for such rapid development in the fifth century. It takes time to rebuild homes and infrastructure. Even with my efforts to improve productivity, it wouldn't be possible without significant reforms.
Morgan shared his confusion, glancing at the town in disbelief. This doesn't add up at all.
As they stood there, questions swirled in their minds. How could a town recover so quickly? What secrets lay behind this sudden transformation?