Chapter 80: The Dilemma of Chivalry (rewrite)

The Dilemma of Chivalry

Galahad, unbothered by the conversation, simply explained to Altria why Lancelot was bound tightly. "We're about to go into battle. It's to prevent him from escaping," he said with a shy smile.

Altria, accepting this explanation without question, didn't suspect any ulterior motives. If it had been her brother, Kay, she might have thought it a prank, but Galahad's usual innocence and kindness made her believe his intentions were genuine.

Galahad tightened the ropes around Lancelot further, thinking of the past rumours about Lancelot's ties with Queen Guinevere. "I'm not letting you go near her," he muttered, pulling the ropes taut.

Lancelot, feeling the ropes digging in, protested loudly, "I won't run away!" But his protests were ignored, and Galahad continued to tighten the restraints.

Resigned to his fate, Lancelot remained quiet, knowing any further objections might only result in more severe measures.

...

Back at the castle, Morgan spoke to Lott with a sense of earnestness. "In future negotiations, let me handle anything that's not within the spirit of chivalry. Don't try to protect your image too much," she said.

Lott responded with a shrug, "If you don't care about your reputation, then why should I care about mine?"

Morgan firmly placed her hand on Lott's arm. "I can endure being slandered, but I won't allow anyone to tarnish your name."

Lott felt a warmth at Morgan's words. "How sweet Morgan is. I agree, but I can't let her handle all the dirty work forever," he thought.

Morgan looked at Lott with a hint of a challenge in her eyes. "You think you can do things secretly behind my back? Not a chance," she thought with determination.

Shifting the topic, Morgan smiled and asked Lott, "By the way, what do you think King Leodegrance will offer us? Money, land, or something else?"

Lott grinned mischievously. "Who knows? Let's not rush to set a price. The more desperate he is, the better the deal we can make. If we make him follow us to Scotland, it'll be much easier."

Morgan nodded thoughtfully. She then teasingly reminded Lott, "Don't get any ideas about King Leodegrance's daughter. Remember, you're not to be tempted."

Lott laughed, gently tapping Morgan on the head. "Morgan, you're the only one for me. Even if I saw Guinevere, I wouldn't be swayed. What excites me more is the prospect of adding those one hundred and fifty knights to our ranks."

Morgan, though hit lightly, felt a burst of happiness. "Hmph, who knows what's truly on your mind?" She playfully declared, "I'll make sure to keep you in check."

"But don't you have a child on the way?" Lott pointed to Morgan's abdomen.

Morgan, slightly embarrassed, replied, "There are other ways to ensure you're 'squeezed out,'" and with that, she pulled Lott into the castle.

...

In Scotland, King Leodegrance anxiously awaited news. His grey hair and worn appearance spoke of a life of constant campaigning and the toll it had taken on him. The threat of defeat was ever-present, and he knew that failure could mean total annihilation.

His hope rested on the help promised by Camelot. He was aware that Lott, who had previously defeated Vortigern, could be a decisive factor in turning the tide.

Leodegrance was nervous as he muttered, "I hope they agree to help us."

His daughter, Guinevere, approached and inquired, "Father, what's troubling you?"

Leodegrance forced a smile. "Nothing to worry about. I'm just hoping for the best."

Despite his reassurances, it was clear he was deeply concerned. His affection for Guinevere was evident, and he had gone to great lengths to secure her marriage to Arthur, along with the promise of the round table and knights—an arrangement that had significant strategic implications.

Guinevere, with a hint of scepticism, asked, "Isn't the war not going well?"

Leodegrance reassured her, "Don't worry. I've asked for help from Camelot's Lott and Morgan. I'm sure they will come through. Once they arrive, we'll have a chance to fight back."

Guinevere, however, was less confident. "I have reservations about their methods. It seems rather unknightly to demand more payment in exchange for help. I prefer to win with honour."

Leodegrance nodded, understanding his daughter's sentiment but knowing the harsh realities of their situation. "I see your point, but right now, we need their assistance more than ever. I'll give them whatever they ask for."

The messenger returned with news of Morgan's demands for additional compensation. Leodegrance's face showed a mix of frustration and determination. "So they want more? Fine. I'll provide it. As long as they help us, I'll meet their terms."

Guinevere, though troubled by the lack of chivalric principles in the negotiation, understood the necessity of their situation. She quietly hoped for a hero who embodied the virtues she cherished.