Chapter 101: The Price of Love (rewrite)

The Price of Love

"If you don't want to face her as 'aunt' when you see her, you'd better muster up your courage," Lott said to Tristan, a firm tone in his voice.

Tristan nodded slightly, determined. "Okay," he replied, gritting his teeth before heading off.

Galahad, with a hint of concern, approached Lott. "Your Majesty Lott, do you think Tristan's plan will go smoothly?"

Lott shook his head slightly. "I'm not sure."

"We need to find a way to divert King Marko's attention," Lott added, his face betraying a hint of anticipation.

...

Tristan, well-acquainted with King Marko's castle, easily found Princess Isolde's boudoir. As he entered, he saw Isolde seated at her dressing table, her beauty marred by a touch of sadness.

Seeing her, Tristan felt a pang of regret. "Uncle's nurturing deserves repayment, but not at the cost of my beloved," he thought.

"Fortunately, it was Your Majesty Morgan and Lott who allowed me to make this decision," Tristan reflected, feeling torn.

"Tristan, why are you here?" Isolde asked, her eyes lighting up with happiness.

"Do you want to come with me?" Tristan asked hesitantly.

...

Meanwhile, Lott and his entourage arrived at King Marko's castle.

"Congratulations on your wedding day, Your Majesty Marko!" Lott greeted King Marko with a smile.

"Thank you, Your Majesty, Lott," Marko replied warmly. Despite his age, he exuded a certain charm and was thrilled about his marriage to Isolde.

"Compared to Vortigern, who merely sent envoys demanding submission, your visit is truly noteworthy," Marko thought with satisfaction.

Marko patted his chest confidently. "Rest assured, I will not let any humble king from Wales interfere with my plans."

"Indeed," Lott replied with a dry smile, thinking to himself, "You'll soon learn the truth."

To ensure Tristan's plan succeeded, Lott continued to engage in conversation with Marko. Their discussion went on for some time until Marko, growing impatient, politely urged Lott to take his leave.

Marko, eager to see Isolde, went to her room with flowers and other small gifts. But upon arriving, he found the room empty.

"Where is she!?" he bellowed in frustration.

He then remembered Lott's recent presence and demanded, "Find Lott immediately!"

In the meantime, Lott had slipped away and rejoined his army. By the time Marko's men reached the room, Tristan had successfully led Isolde out.

Chapter 96: The Return to Camelot

Tristan, now reunited with Lott and his forces, still carried a trace of sadness. Yet, there was also a glimmer of joy. He cherished his love for Isolde, and despite the turmoil, he felt it was worth it.

Lott observed Tristan's mixed emotions. "King Marko will surely come after us for revenge," he mused. "Should we set up an ambush?"

"No, please don't!" Tristan interjected urgently. "This was my fault. If my uncle suffers due to this, I will never forgive myself."

"So, you want to choose to flee?" Lott asked, his tone teasing.

Tristan knelt before Lott. "Your Majesty, please forgive my presumption."

"Very well," Lott agreed, recognizing Tristan's sincere regret.

Lott realized that his judgment of King Marko had been harsh. According to legend, Marko had once poisoned Tristan, but that was a matter of the past. In the present, Marko has shown responsibility and respect towards Tristan.

Lott decided to honour Tristan's request. "Thank you," Tristan said, visibly relieved and grateful.

As Lott prepared to leave Cornwall, King Marko was left fuming. "Damn it, Tristan and King Lott, I'll remember this!" he vowed. Marko resolved to ally with Vortigern and seek revenge.

...

Back in Camelot, Lott faced a more pressing concern: Morgan was about to give birth. He had hurried to assist Tristan but now needed to return to the city. With Morgan's due date imminent, Lott prioritized being by her side.

The army, understanding Lott's urgency, marched swiftly towards the Chalk City. Despite their efforts, they arrived slightly late, as Morgan's labour had already begun.

Lott's heart raced as he realized he had missed the critical moment.