Chapter 96: The Test of Strength and Diplomacy (rewrite)

As Altria approached the dining table, she was caught off guard by an unexpected move. Scáthach extended her foot with the intent to trip Altria. Fortunately, Altria sensed the danger just in time and managed to avoid the trap.

Turning to face Scáthach, Altria asked in surprise, "Who are you?"

Without a word, Scáthach responded with a swift attack. Altria, not wanting to be caught off guard again, quickly raised her hand to defend herself. The clash between them was intense, and despite her efforts, Scáthach soon had Altria subdued.

Scáthach, examining Altria critically, remarked, "The teacher who educates you is really good, but it's still a bit short."

Meanwhile, in another part of the castle, Merlin, with a hint of frustration, muttered to himself, "Forbearance, forbearance, I can't compete with that woman."

Though their fight wasn't loud, it caught the attention of Galahad, who quickly made his way to the commotion. Witnessing Scáthach's effortless control over Altria, he was stunned. "Who is this? Her strength is incredible. She's easily defeated Altria."

Without pausing to think, Galahad joined the fray, attacking Scáthach. Scáthach's expression brightened with interest as she faced him. "There's still a nice seedling!" she said, her eyes gleaming with amusement.

While Scáthach was occupied with Altria and Galahad, Lott stepped in to stop the fight. "Hold on, everyone. This purple-haired lady is Morgan's righteous sister," he explained.

Galahad paused, his confusion evident. "What?"

With the misunderstanding resolved, everyone ceased their combat. Morgan, feeling both annoyed and exasperated, glanced at Altria, who was still recovering from the altercation. "Altria, come join us for the meal."

Altria, though still shaken, agreed with relief. "Alright, thank you."

Lott and Galahad couldn't help but chuckle at the situation.

When Morgan inquired about their laughter, Lott replied with a forced grin, "I just remembered something amusing."

Galahad added, "I think His Majesty Lott's happiness is contagious, so I'm happy too."

Morgan, though initially frustrated, eventually accepted the situation and allowed Altria and Galahad to join the meal. The group settled down. Not long after, Leodegrance's daughter made her entrance, signifying that King Leodegrance himself would soon join them.

As the meal began, the seating arrangement showed Scáthach in a position of prominence, which unsettled King Leodegrance. He was used to being at the top and felt slighted. "Why is this woman seated above me?" he wondered aloud. He was determined to inquire about Scáthach's background.

"Where are you from, Madam?" King Leodegrance asked, trying to gauge her status.

Scáthach smiled and responded, "I am from Scotland."

King Leodegrance straightened up. Scotland was known for its powerful rulers, and he considered himself among them.

"And what is your position?" he continued, pressing for more information.

"I'm just a little queen from an ordinary place," Scáthach replied nonchalantly.

Leodegrance's smile faltered. There weren't many queens in Scotland, and he didn't consider them as formidable as himself.

"What kingdom do you hail from?" he asked, trying to understand her standing.

"The Kingdom of Shadows," Scáthach answered simply.

King Leodegrance's face turned pale as he recognized the name. "The Kingdom of Shadows...?" He hesitated, then fell silent.

Scáthach's smile widened as she introduced herself further. "I am Scáthach, Queen of the Kingdom of Shadows."

At that revelation, King Leodegrance's composure shattered. He fell from his chair, stunned by the realization of who he was dealing with.

Morgan and Lott struggled to contain their laughter. Lott gestured silently for Morgan to help him avoid laughing. The scene was too amusing for words.

The next morning, Lott, still reeling from the previous night, asked Morgan with a shiver, "Old wife, what was all that about?"

Morgan, grinning, responded, "I needed to help you improve your strength. I even had my sister come specifically for special training. You see, Altria and Galahad have no complaints, right?"

Lott glanced at Altria and Galahad, who appeared eager to further develop their skills. He understood the importance of the training despite the discomfort it caused.

"Well then," Lott conceded, accepting the situation, "if this is what's required, so be it."

And so, the group continued their preparations, each taking their place in the unfolding events with renewed focus.