Chapter 244: Unmasking Truths and Unspoken Bonds
Galahad quickly ordered that Ritsuka Fujimaru and her companions be brought in. Since they hadn't resisted, they were escorted without shackles or restraints.
As they entered, Ritsuka and Mash finally came face to face with Morgan. Her presence emanated both the regal authority of a queen and the warmth of a mother. Mordred, standing beside them, felt a strange sensation stir within her as she looked at Morgan.
Is this really my mother? She wondered. The resemblance was undeniable, but the aura was entirely different—this Morgan felt kind, not at all like the stern figure she remembered.
Morgan noticed Mordred standing still, lost in thought. With a soft smile, she spoke, "Come closer, Mordred. There's no need to wear your helmet in front of me. It's a bit disrespectful, don't you think?"
"Uh… what?" Mordred was startled. Does she know me? And not just that—there was an unmistakable warmth in her voice. Confusion filled her thoughts. When did this happen?
"Is something wrong?" Morgan asked gently, seeing Mordred's hesitation. "Now that you're here, aren't you going to speak with me?"
"No, of course not," Mordred replied hastily. Taking a deep breath, she removed her helmet, revealing her face. Morgan's eyes softened as she looked at her daughter.
She looks like a blend of Altria and myself, Morgan thought. But she's not nearly as beautiful as my husband. In this world, he really is the most handsome. Despite these thoughts, she maintained the poised demeanor of a mature mother.
"That's better," she said, her tone still kind. Gesturing to a lavishly set table, she added, "Come, let's have dinner."
"Okay! I'm starving!" Ritsuka Fujimaru exclaimed, her stomach growling audibly.
Morgan chuckled. "Don't worry. I've had the chef prepare some of the finest British dishes of this era." She signaled the servants, who began bringing in a variety of dishes, their aromas filling the room.
"Wait a minute," Lancelot said, looking at the table, puzzled. Ritsuka, Mash, and the others exchanged glances, realizing something odd.
"Aren't these… Chinese dishes?" Ritsuka asked Morgan, raising an eyebrow.
Morgan's smile didn't falter. "Oh, I wouldn't know anything about that," she replied innocently, though inwardly, she was a bit flustered. Damn that husband of mine, giving me Chinese recipes. Now I've been found out! How embarrassing!
Understanding dawned on Ritsuka and Mash. This Morgan knows thousands of years into the future, they realized. She's not limited to just Britain's history. They exchanged knowing glances, the pieces of the puzzle fitting together. The unusual things they had seen around Orkney Castle—the innovations and advancements—they were all Morgan's doing. Lott, it seemed, wasn't involved.
With that realization, they turned their attention back to the feast. Ritsuka, familiar with chopsticks, had no trouble enjoying the meal, while Mordred, struggling with the unfamiliar utensils, fumbled awkwardly. Despite the difficulties, they all found the food delicious. Even Lancelot, who had been a prisoner for so long, savored the rich flavors.
Morgan watched them with a pleased expression. Seeing her guests enjoy the food brought her a quiet satisfaction. But after everyone had finished eating, her demeanor shifted.
"So," she began, looking directly at Mordred, "are you going to tell me your real purpose now? Why are you here in Camelot, causing chaos instead of helping me build it?"
Her words were like a cold wind, freezing the atmosphere in an instant. Causing chaos? Ritsuka set her chopsticks down, her expression serious.
"I'm here to correct the abnormalities in this world," Ritsuka replied firmly. "History has been altered, and we need to fix it."
Morgan raised an eyebrow, her eyes narrowing. "You're saying that what I've done is wrong?"
Ritsuka hesitated. Morgan's expression grew darker, a hint of anger flickering in her eyes. Being told she was wrong was not something she took lightly.
"Your rule might be effective," Ritsuka continued carefully, "but certain things go against the natural order. If not corrected, they could have a huge impact on the history of this planet."
"Really?" Morgan's voice was sharp. "Well, I'm telling you that what I've done will only lead to a better future for humanity. If you think I'm going to let you undo all of this, you're mistaken."
Her gaze hardened, and the room seemed to grow colder. Mash instinctively raised her shield, ready to defend against any attack. Mordred stepped protectively in front of Ritsuka, glaring at Morgan.
"Well, I wanted to talk to you about something," Mordred said, her voice steady despite the tension.
Morgan nodded, glancing at Ritsuka, Mash, and Lancelot. "You're all my captives now. I trust you know what's expected of you?"
"Yes, I understand…" Lancelot replied, coughing awkwardly. Please, let's not delve into my past anymore! He thought, glancing nervously at the others.
Morgan's eyes softened slightly as she looked at him. "Alright. You can all leave now."
Melusine nodded and began to leave, but Morgan stopped Gawain. "Gawain, stay. You should meet Mordred properly. She's your sister, after all."
"What!? My sister!?" Gawain exclaimed, staring at Mordred in shock.
"Who's older, then? Your or Agravain?" Gawain asked, her tone edged with frustration.
"Agravain is older," Mordred said, visibly irritated by the comparison.
Morgan smiled softly. "Alright, you two, have a proper conversation." Then she turned to Ritsuka and Mash. "And you two—be prepared. I'm going to show you what true leadership looks like."