Morgan's expression shifted from amusement to incredulity as she observed Lott strolling past with a fishing rod. The contrast between his leisurely demeanour and the pressing issues at hand was stark.
Morgan, internally seething, watched Lott's relaxed pace as he carried his fishing gear. She couldn't help but think, This lazy fool! Her annoyance grew as she noticed Lott's nonchalant attitude, which seemed to suggest he was more interested in a casual pastime than in addressing their pressing problems.
Lott, sensing the intensity of Morgan's gaze, stopped in his tracks. His thoughts raced, wondering if assassins were lurking in the palace, given the murderous look on Morgan's face. Yet, upon closer inspection, he realized that Morgan was simply frustrated with his apparent disregard for the gravity of the situation.
Morgan's irritation was palpable as she watched Lott, who looked like he was preparing for a cosy afternoon rather than tackling critical issues. She found herself contemplating how to express her frustration without resorting to drastic measures.
"You're not your sister; we're not interested in eating people," Lott said weakly, trying to lighten the mood despite the tension.
If Altria had heard this exchange, she would have protested vehemently, decrying the absurd rumours about her and her fellow knights. But Altria was nowhere near, and thus, the conversation continued.
Morgan, with a sarcastic edge, inquired, "Then, Your Majesty Lott, can you explain what you're doing in this outfit? Is it related to the development of Camelot?"
In response, Lott's inner monologue was filled with unfiltered optimism. Of course, I'm contributing to the development of the country. If I catch something good, it will advance our nation!
Morgan, hearing Lott's internal thoughts, nearly knocked her head against the wall in frustration. She was no stranger to Lott's lackadaisical attitude, but his apparent belief that fishing could save the country was beyond baffling.
Despite her exasperation, Morgan decided to let Lott go, though she requested, "At least bring back some fish for dinner tonight."
Lott, slightly taken aback by the request, staggered as he left, but he quickly regained his composure. It was well known that Lott, despite his prowess, often failed to catch fish. His previous attempts had yielded nothing but an empty bucket.
Morgan, watching Lott leave, reflected on her feelings. Why do I put up with this? She sighed, resigned to her fate. She then turned her attention to managing the realm's affairs, especially the food shortage.
Meanwhile, Little Gawain, who was practising swordsmanship, sensed an ominous cloud hanging over her. "Why do I feel something terrible is going to happen?" she asked Altria, her voice filled with apprehension.
Altria, reading the situation, replied, "The only real danger comes from the source of your fear. If it's from your parents, it's usually something you need to handle."
As Lott ventured out of the city with his fishing rod, he was hopeful for a miraculous catch. He prayed fervently to every deity he could think of, hoping for a blessing.
Reaching the river, Lott prepared himself with a ritualistic approach. He set up a small stool, cast his fishing line into the water, and waited patiently.
"This fishing requires a ritual; the fishing rod must be standard," he muttered to himself, trying to set a serious tone despite the absurdity of the situation.
Lott's patience was rewarded as he felt the fishing rod sink. With anticipation, he slowly pulled it from the river, closing his eyes as he prepared for a surprise.
When he finally opened his eyes, he was met with a sight that left him bewildered. A long sword was hooked on the line. It was not a golden or silver blade but a sword with a black hilt and a blue handguard. The design was peculiar, with a blade that seemed to merge the features of a spear and a sword.
Lott was both intrigued and puzzled. What kind of sword is this? He examined the blade closely but couldn't recall any legends or historical accounts that matched its description. It was familiar yet foreign, a mystery that intrigued him deeply.
With this unexpected find, Lott felt a sense of accomplishment despite his earlier lightheartedness. He now had a new puzzle to solve, one that might hold significance for their future endeavours.
As he contemplated the sword's origins and purpose, Lott prepared to return to the palace, ready to reveal his surprising discovery to Morgan.