Chapter 35: Sneak Attack (rewrite)

Sneak Attack

Merlin's smile remained unchanged as he addressed Lott. "After all, I brought back good news, didn't I?"

"What's the situation specifically?" Lott inquired, eager for details.

Merlin responded, "It's quite close now. King Uther is on the verge of being defeated by Vortigern. The enemy forces have begun infighting, and despite Vortigern's stubbornness to launch a fiercer attack, King Uther managed to escape amidst the chaos. I played a key role in this outcome. Without my intervention, Your Majesty, King Uther might have perished."

Lott listened with a critical eye. He considered Merlin's contribution akin to the air in a bag of chips—seemingly significant but ultimately insubstantial. Yet, he acknowledged that any assistance was better than none.

Merlin continued, "As for King Uther's current condition, there's nothing definitive at the moment, but 'temporary' does not mean 'permanent.'"

Lott took in this information thoughtfully. So, our main task is to handle the troops that Vortigern has pulled back. The pressure on us isn't overwhelming.

Retreat and Withdrawal

As Vortigern's forces began their retreat, he sighed, resigned to the fact that he seemed to have been defeated. Despite any potential to regroup and counterattack, the morale of his troops had shattered. Their focus had shifted to safeguarding their amassed wealth rather than continuing the fight.

Vortigern observed, "Let's retreat."

The soldiers' spirits lifted at the prospect of returning home. Their enthusiasm for leaving was palpable, contrasting sharply with their previous lethargy during the battle. They hastily packed their belongings, eager to head back.

Vortigern's frustration with his men's lack of resolve was evident. My subordinates are like home-loving thieves. Not one of them stands firm.

"I hope we can return without further incidents," he thought as he prepared his forces for departure.

The soldiers assembled and began their southward march, aiming to return to their former territory now held by Lott.

A Nightly Tactical Move

Under the cover of darkness, Vortigern's army, despite its lack of fighting spirit, maintained a well-organized retreat. The retreating army was still orderly, and their movements were methodical, contrary to what one might expect from a defeated force.

Lott and Morgan observed from a distance. "It's clear Vortigern didn't anticipate us taking advantage of the situation," Lott remarked.

Morgan agreed, "Indeed. They must have thought we would stay in the castle and wait for their assault."

Lott, concerned about the upcoming battle, suggested to Morgan, "You should head back. The next fight will be quite dangerous."

Morgan was resolute. "Dangerous for me? And what about you? I'm not going to let you act behind my back. I'm coming with you, no matter how risky it is."

Lott reluctantly accepted her decision, though he was apprehensive about her safety. He worried about the risk to Morgan given their numbers and the danger of the impending attack. He wanted her to stay back but knew he couldn't persuade her otherwise.

Morgan took up her staff and declared, "My magical abilities are superb. I'm not letting you face this alone."

Lott considered his options, briefly contemplating knocking her out to keep her safe. Ah, why is my wife so adventurous? I'd prefer her at home, safe and sound.

Morgan, noticing his indecisiveness, warned him, "Don't even think about using force. If you try that, I won't forgive you."

Realizing he hadn't done anything yet, Lott was taken aback. He had merely considered the possibility. "Alright, I'll ensure your safety, is that acceptable?"

Morgan nodded, satisfied with his concession.

Preparations and Strategy

Lott began to prepare for the attack. "Get ready. We'll start by destroying the enemy's food supplies. We'll leave King Vortigern to his own devices."

The soldiers responded affirmatively and began their quiet advance.

As they moved, Lott contemplated the strength of Vortigern. Vortigern's prowess can decimate an army. Our priority is to target his logistical support, not engage him directly.

Morgan, noticing Lott's distraction, rolled her eyes at his offhand comment about plans. Always thinking about sex, even during a battle.

Vortigern's Disquiet

In the middle of the night, Vortigern sensed something amiss. His unease stemmed from the stark contrast between this and previous wars. King Uther's unexpected tactics were proving to be a challenge.

He pondered, This King Uther has changed his approach significantly. It's unsettling and far more difficult to counter.

With this realization, Vortigern led his troops south, preparing for the eventual confrontation with Lott and his forces, bracing himself for the unknown challenges that lay ahead.