Return

A warship from the continent of Europe docked at the port of Londinium. Unlike before, the people disembarking from the ship were not Saxons or any other Germanic invaders, but their own people from Britain.

In addition to Artorius, Mordred, and a few other relatives, including Gareth, there were knights from various parts of Britain and Saxon warriors who had already settled there.

Once the ship docked, porters, merchants, and even some beggars hurriedly gathered around.

Children playing with wooden swords in the streets and elderly people conversing under trees were also drawn to the commotion.

This was because, over the past two years, the Germanic Army had continuously brought resources and wealth to Britain.

The knights and tribal warriors who followed Artorius would either return directly to Britain during their furloughs or entrust a powerful and reputable knight to bring back the spoils and rewards they had obtained.

The wealth from the European continent filled the void in Britain's treasury, the food shortage caused by increasingly barren lands, and the empty pockets of the people due to King Arthur's constant expeditions.

—It's truly a sign of the times that even those bandits can brazenly appear on British soil...

Although some people made such comments, when the ships from the Germanic Army docked, most people looked at Artorius and his entourage with excited and envious eyes.

As the banners of the Red Dragon of Britain, the Roman Eagle, and the Germanic Wolf flew high, everyone, after a moment of surprise, descended into a state of frenzied excitement.

In all of Europe, and even the world, there was only one person who simultaneously used these three banners.

He represented Britain's Son of Dragon, the Roman Empire, and the ruler and conqueror of Germanic—Artorius Pendragon.

"It's the Prince, Prince Artorius! He's back! He's back!!!"

Almost everyone in Londinium rushed to the port as quickly as possible. They cheered loudly, welcoming their great leader back home.

Artorius had gained immense prestige through his continuous victories in the European wars. When the knights who had achieved fame under Artorius returned to their hometowns, they always sparked people's longing for Artorius.

Especially in the situation where King Arthur's rule was deteriorating. People seemed more inclined to follow a leader who could bring them benefits rather than a ruler like King Arthur who constantly demanded their 'Perseverance' and 'Patience'.

Artorius's reputation in Britain had already caught up to or even surpassed, that of King Arthur...

'The Battle of Camlann.'

Riding on a pure white warhorse, Artorius surveyed his surroundings, waving and gesturing to the people on both sides of the street who cheered for him, and he thought to himself.

'In the original history, the Battle of Camlann must be about to happen.'

'Which means Britain's tolerance for my mother's rule is nearing its limit.'

Now, Britain's situation was completely different from the original timeline.

Due to Artorius's efforts on the European continent, Britain's situation was more stable than before. The nobles, lords, and kings all tried to please him. They often sent letters or dispatched envoys, and their words, whether explicit or implied, were all about their hopes that Artorius would bring them wealth in Europe.

If one were to consider it from the perspective of 'King Arthur's rebellion', Artorius had done much better than Mordred in the original history.

The reason he could unite the lords and nobles of Britain, aside from their disgust and fear towards King Arthur, was that he could bring them tangible benefits and promises. This was something Mordred in original history couldn't achieve...

Of course, Artorius never thought of betraying his own mother.

But...

'If fate demands my mother's downfall. Then...'

Artorius felt a bit conflicted.

So far, everything he had done had indirectly fulfilled the demands of 'fate'. That is the rise of the Germanic and the challenge to Rome.

But what if fate demanded that he must betray King Arthur—Artoria, and deal a fatal blow to his most beloved mother? What would he do then?

'Hmph... I dare you.' Thinking this, Artorius sneered disdainfully.

Then he continued to wave and gesture to the welcoming crowds around him. This was something that Artoria would never do. That upright and honest king would never resort to such tricks, speeches, or a populist attitude to show everyone 'I love you'.

Artoria always relied on concrete actions.

Unfortunately, in terms of effectiveness, Artoria's 'concrete actions' paled in comparison to Artorius's 'showmanship'.

Many times, what people need is this kind of 'attitude' and 'feeling'. They need to have the illusion of being 'noticed' and 'cared' for.

While Artoria is aloof and upright or noble and just, the ultimate outcome is simply growing distant from people.

In contrast, Artorius, who evokes cheers and emotions from people, is the one who truly fulfills their expectations of a King.

"Humans are truly interesting creatures."

"Brother, what are you talking about?" Mordred, curious yet somewhat puzzled, asked Artorius as he made such a sighing remark.

"Ohh, nothing. It's just that..." Artorius gazed at Mordred. "I can't help but feel that humans are truly fickle creatures."

Because, several years ago, when Artoria, leading the Knights of the Round Table, attacked, expelled, and defeated the Saxons, everyone in Britain welcome them with open arms, just like they do now to him.

But, now was a different story...

"?"

Mordred still didn't understand her brother's words, but this time, she chose not to inquire further. Instead, she showed a lovely smile and let it go.

Happy girls don't bother themselves with such things.

All she had to do was obey and follow Artorius's commands and bask in her brother's affection. She didn't need to concern herself with anything else.

Clinging to her purpose, Mordred became Artorius's most sharp-witted shield and sword over the course of these two years.

Suppressing rebellions, dealing with enemy forces, and commanding battles—under Artorius's guidance, Mordred's talents were fully brought to light.

Just as Artorius hoped, Mordred showcased her full potential and proved to be a genius, almost on par with Artoria herself.

Mordred aptly assumed the role of a prominent military general, standing on her own, and showing absolute loyalty to Artorius. She was his best companion and partner. She readily undertook many tasks that other Knights of the Round Table found inconvenient, ensuring they were handled efficiently.

Moreover, aside from the battlefield, in Artorius's daily life, Mordred obeyed his every word, leaving nothing unsaid. She also took care of his daily needs and provided solace for his weary body and soul.