Chapter 75: Tensions of Blood and Battle (rewrite)

As the intense battle between Altria and Lancelot concluded, the battlefield finally began to settle. Despite their valiant efforts, Lancelot found himself overwhelmed by the combined strength of Altria, Kay, and Galahad. Realizing he could no longer continue the fight, Lancelot attempted a bold escape, targeting Merlin, thinking the magician would be his easiest path out.

To Lancelot's surprise, Merlin, known primarily for his magic, proved to be an exceptional swordsman as well. Their brief skirmish left Lancelot astounded, especially when Merlin easily defended himself. Even more shocking was Altria's revelation that Merlin had also been her swordsmanship teacher.

Lancelot's frustration grew as he glanced at the smug expression on Merlin's face. He felt tricked and deceived, unable to make sense of the situation. His irritation deepened when he turned to Galahad, who continued to display a palpable hatred for him.

"Why do you hate me so much?" Lancelot asked Galahad once again, exasperated by the knight's venomous demeanour.

Galahad, who had thus far avoided the topic, responded cryptically. "Sometimes, people don't need a reason to dislike each other. But in your case, the reason will become clear in time."

Lancelot wasn't satisfied with the answer but sensed that further questioning wouldn't yield more information. The air between them was thick with unspoken tension, and Lancelot could feel there was a deeper connection between them, something he had yet to understand.

As the conversation lingered, Morgan and Lott approached. Morgan, sensing the delicate nature of Galahad's hidden feelings, decided to intervene. She turned her attention to Lancelot, breaking the uncomfortable moment.

"Knight Lancelot, you're in no position to question my knights, especially when you are the one who stands as our captive," Morgan said with authority, shifting the focus away from Galahad.

Grateful for Morgan's timely intervention, Galahad visibly relaxed, feeling as though he had been rescued from an uncomfortable confrontation.

Lancelot, now realizing he was outmatched in both combat and verbal exchanges, sighed and acknowledged Morgan's dominance in the situation. He would have to bide his time and find answers another day.

As Morgan's maternal instincts, driven by her pregnancy with Gawain, grew stronger, she couldn't help but sympathize with Galahad's emotional struggle. She wondered silently how long it would take for Galahad to confront his father, Lancelot, with the truth. Until then, she knew she would need to manage the tension between the two knights delicately.

For now, though, the pressing matters of governance and preparation for the Northern Expedition took precedence. With a nod to Lott, Morgan led him away to discuss their plans, leaving Lancelot to ponder his uncertain fate and Galahad to wrestle with his conflicted emotions.