Chapter 36: The Duel of Wits (rewrite)
The Duel of Wits
Vortigern sensed a new presence in the chaos, his thoughts racing. Could there be a sneak attack? Do they dare to attack my forces? The idea seemed almost laughable given their numerical disadvantage. He was both puzzled and intrigued. What are they trying to achieve? Do they want to kill me? If they do, they'll learn the full extent of my strength.
Vortigern's thoughts were interrupted by the realization of where the attack was directed. They're targeting the food supplies! His frustration was evident. These enemies are truly shameless. There's no honour in attacking the supply lines. If they have the courage, they should face me directly!
Determined to confront the attackers and secure the supplies, Vortigern mounted his horse and raced toward the granary. The sight that met him was chaos. Soldiers were scrambling, and the granary was already under attack.
He observed a young man leading the attack, his presence commanding and resolute. Is this the commander of this operation? Vortigern, recognizing the distinct aura of the man, approached him with a mix of admiration and hostility.
"From the perspective of an enemy, you are indeed a despicable foe. But from a military standpoint, you are a worthy opponent," Vortigern said, acknowledging Lott's audacity. He then added, "King Uther gave you something, and I will give you twice as much."
"Twice?" Lott echoed, confusion evident on his face. He also noticed Morgan's angry reaction and wondered why she was so upset.
Morgan, not one to tolerate any insult or disrespect, clenched her staff and prepared to retaliate. "What did King Uther give, and what are you offering in double? My father married me to a dog, so what exactly are you doubling?" she thought angrily.
Without further ado, Morgan launched a magical attack at Vortigern, her staff emitting a burst of energy. The attack, though potent, was easily deflected by Vortigern's superior skill.
"What is your problem?" Vortigern asked with a dark expression, clearly irritated by Morgan's sudden assault. "You attack my army and then my supplies, and now you assault me directly. Where is the chivalry in that?"
"Lott will never surrender to you," Morgan retorted through gritted teeth.
"Indeed," Lott agreed, his tone firm. Secretly, he mused about Vortigern's familial connections and the implications. Is Vortigern Morgan's uncle? No, I shouldn't dwell on that.
Morgan, visibly annoyed, resolved to take her frustration out on Vortigern. She continued to cast spells, her magic creating explosions around him. Despite her prowess, Vortigern's experience and strength allowed him to counter her attacks effectively.
"Do you want to die?" Vortigern growled, his anger rising. He swung his sword at Morgan, but Lott intervened, blocking the blow.
"Want to touch my wife? Do you think I'm just a display?" Lott shouted defiantly.
Morgan, hearing Lott's words, couldn't help but smile. He's something, daring to think like that. I'll make sure he pays for his thoughts later. She continued to attack with her magic, determined to protect her husband.
The Duel
Lott, despite his internal misgivings, knew he had to show his full capability against Vortigern. He was a skilled knight, and the ongoing battle demonstrated his prowess. He clashed swords with Vortigern, each strike resonating with power.
Vortigern, slightly impressed, acknowledged, "You have good strength." Yet, he was aware of the gap between them. Lott was formidable, but Vortigern's heritage and experience gave him an edge.
The battle continued with each side testing the other's limits. Lott's strength and skill were considerable, but Vortigern's heritage as a descendant of the white dragon put him in a league of his own. Despite the intense combat, Vortigern remained confident that victory would ultimately be his.
The night was alive with the clash of steel and magic, each combatant pushing the other to their limits, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown between the determined Lott and the formidable Vortigern.