Chapter 176: The Gathering Shadows

The Gathering Shadows

As Gawain watched the change in her mother's expression, her mouth widened in disbelief. Mother, you love father too much! she thought.

If her father returned empty-handed and Morgan had comforted him, that would be understandable. But now? Morgan wore a celebratory expression despite Lott not bringing anything back. What does that mean? Gawain's heart protested. Are you celebrating your husband's return? Didn't my father just go to confront the fairies?

This is ridiculous, she thought, feeling frustration bubble up inside her.

However, when Morgan finally noticed her daughter's expression, she squinted. This little girl—your father has obtained something incredible, and you're not only unhappy but also sulking? This is wrong. Children should be taught to appreciate their parents' achievements.

As her mother's gaze intensified, Gawain instantly straightened up. What was she supposed to do? Not only was she unable to express her displeasure, but she also had to wear a smile. She looked at Morgan, feeling trapped.

Gawain forced a smile, though it was more melancholic than joyful. It was a smile sadder than any Tristan could muster. Ugh, my heart is tired, she thought.

Lott, oblivious to the rapid changes in the expressions and emotions around him, was still caught up in his happiness. Well, my daughter has grown up, he mused. She understands the joy of seeing her father gain something new.

Feeling pleased with his thoughts, Lott turned his attention to the fairies, still restrained, and asked Morgan, "Why are these fairies still here? Haven't they attempted a rescue?"

Lott and Morgan had assumed that after capturing the fairies, there would be a concerted effort to rescue them. Yet, as Morgan reported, there had been no attempts at all. This puzzled Lott.

You should at least try, he thought. The fairies could use various methods—direct assaults, stealthy infiltrations, or aerial attacks—but there had been none of that. Lott didn't want to underestimate their potential.

He remembered the unpredictability of the fairies, and while he was not overly concerned, he didn't dare to be complacent. "Gawain, remember this: you must keep an eye on this place. If there are any signs of fairies coming to rescue their comrades, you need to inform your mother and me immediately."

Gawain nodded vigorously, though she muttered under her breath, "You fairies, come here quickly! I want to kill someone!"

Lott and Morgan exchanged glances, relieved. At least we have a capable daughter, they thought.

Meanwhile, the fairies, led by the cunning Baobhan Sith, were biding their time. Unbeknownst to Lott and Morgan, she had no intention of rushing in without a plan. These tooth clan soldiers are nothing but useless, she thought, her disdain for their incompetence evident.

Her objective was simple: I have to make good on my promise and eliminate Lott and Morgan when the time is right.

As she moved through the shadows, Baobhan Sith reflected on her fear of sunlight. Under the sun, my strength wanes. I must act at night when the castle is locked down tight, and the nobles are safely ensconced within their homes.

After careful consideration, she concluded that a direct assault would be unwise. The castle defences would be formidable, with traps and soldiers. Attacking openly was unrealistic, especially when dealing with Lott, Morgan, and their prepared defences.

I can't let this opportunity slip away, Baobhan Sith decided, her determination solidifying. She would find a way inside, even if it meant being stealthy and careful. Even if the odds are against me, I'll find a way to catch them off guard.

While Baobhan Sith plotted her attack, a merchant, left behind and trembling, begged for mercy. "I—I don't know anything about what's happening in the castle!" he pleaded, glancing at the corpses around him.

Baobhan Sith had little patience. "Enough of your whining. I have no time to waste with you," she said dismissively, heading toward the castle.

As she slipped away into the night, the merchant was left trembling, overwhelmed by fear. Why didn't she kill us? He wondered, glancing at the bodies of his fallen companions.

Little did he know that danger was still lurking, just beyond the castle walls. Baobhan Sith's mind raced with plans, ready to exploit the darkness to her advantage. The game was afoot, and she was determined to turn the tide in favour of the fairies.