The Strategy Unfolds
The defenders inside Vortigern's castle were starting to crack under the relentless pressure. Their mental state deteriorated rapidly. "Are we being deceived?" one of them muttered, clearly frustrated.
Despite knowing that they might be falling for a ruse, the soldiers had no choice but to get up and prepare for defence whenever the alarm sounded. The cycle continued: they would prepare for an attack, only to find that there was none, and then try to rest again, only for the alarms to sound once more.
The constant harassment and the lack of actual attacks left them exhausted. The rain was unrelenting, adding to their misery. With no reinforcements arriving and the stress building, their morale was at its breaking point.
Eventually, the defenders decided to take a drastic step. They chose to abandon their positions and surrender, unable to cope with the ongoing psychological and physical strain.
Unexpected Surrender
Lott looked at the Vortigern defenders who approached him, waving a white flag and was initially unsure how to react. His strategy had worked beyond his expectations. He had aimed to wear them down mentally, but their rapid surrender was unexpected.
Morgan, observing the scene, was puzzled. Surrendering so easily? Is this what the French are like? She wondered. She imagined a future where such easy victories could lead to even greater conquests, from unifying Britain to expanding into France and beyond.
Morgan smiled at the thought of plans and victories, but her attention was quickly drawn back to the present. The defenders who surrendered seemed less defeated and more surprised.
"What's with your expressions?" Lott asked. "Do you think we're unworthy of your surrender?"
One of the defenders spoke up, "Are you not Romans?"
Lott and Morgan exchanged confused looks. The defenders' equipment and appearance didn't resemble that of Romans, but rather allies like Camelot. The defenders were disillusioned, realizing their mistake too late.
The general of the defenders hesitated before proposing, "Could we exchange the information about Vortigern's treasure for our return to the castle?"
Morgan's interest was piqued by the mention of treasure. Lott remained calm but was intrigued. Redeeming themselves with treasure? It sounds tempting, but wealth is useless if I die in battle. It's more important to have the power to protect it.
Morgan nodded in agreement, acknowledging the truth in Lott's thought. Indeed, money is important, but the power to protect it is crucial.
However, Lott and Morgan were not ready to let this opportunity slip away. They turned to Merlin, knowing he was the best suited to handle such negotiations.
Merlin approached the general, saying softly, "If you wish to redeem yourselves with the treasure, how can we trust your word?"
The general was visibly relieved at Merlin's calm demeanour. He then asked if they could accompany them to retrieve the treasure and if they would be allowed to return to the castle.
Merlin assured him, "As long as you provide us with all of Vortigern's treasure, I promise you will be returned to the castle. I vouch for this with my honour."
"Who are you?" the general inquired.
"I am Merlin, the national teacher of King Uther," Merlin replied with a smile.
The general's expression changed instantly. "Your Majesty Vortigern told me not to trust a word you say. I cannot believe your vow."
At this, Lott and Morgan couldn't help but laugh. Vortigern's caution seemed well-founded, considering Merlin's reputation.
Merlin sighed theatrically and suggested, "What if he swore an oath?" pointing to Lott.
Morgan was taken aback. You want Lott to swear an oath? she thought. How devious!
Despite her initial shock, Lott smiled and agreed, "I can swear an oath as well."