Unveiling Deceptions and Riches
Morgan watched Lott with scepticism. Merlin was known for his clever manipulations, and while he had promised to secure all of Vortigern's treasure, Morgan wondered about the feasibility and reliability of such a promise. What if Merlin doesn't follow through? She thought. We could end up with nothing but empty promises.
She recalled one of Lott's analogies: it was like claiming you ate two bowls of noodles when you only had one. You could easily exaggerate the claim or deceive someone about the quantity. Morgan was wary of the potential deceit.
With a hint of amusement, Morgan looked at Merlin. To her, Merlin's current demeanour was as deceptive as ever, despite his seemingly kind appearance.
Plans and Treasures
Morgan decided to leave the matter of the castle guard's fate to Merlin, feeling that his methods would likely be ruthless. Meanwhile, she and Lott turned their attention to plans.
Morgan asked Lott, "Now that we've taken Vortigern's stronghold, do you think he will come directly to attack us?"
"Possibly," Lott replied. "We've taken this castle, but Vortigern might see it as a chance to strengthen his position. The kings of Vortigern are unpredictable. They might even try to build up their defences further."
Morgan blinked, acknowledging Lott's insight. It seemed that while Lott and Merlin were masterminding their strategies, much of the heavy lifting was done by Merlin.
She internally sighed. Lott, you're always thinking ahead, but Merlin is the one pulling the strings. I might need to comfort you after this war.
Morgan rolled her eyes internally at Lott's habit of mixing work with personal indulgence. She was focused on ensuring a satisfactory end to the war and resolved that rest would come only after victory.
Meanwhile, she prepared a cup of herbal tea—a remedy she learned from local witch doctors in Orkney. It was meant to rejuvenate and help them stay sharp for their upcoming plans.
Vortigern's Strategy and Treasures
As Vortigern's army continued their assault, urgent messages arrived about Roman forces attacking their castle. The generals were concerned, but Vortigern dismissed the news, declaring it false.
Vortigern, with a steely gaze, insisted, "The reports are fabrications. We will press on with our attack and not give Uther any chance to regroup."
Despite concerns from his generals, Vortigern was determined. He aimed to crush Uther's forces decisively, showing no mercy or hesitation. He believed that the castle's defences could withstand any prolonged siege.
The Treasure of Vortigern
Lott and Morgan, having observed Merlin's negotiation, moved to Vortigern's treasury. As they entered, they were struck by the sheer opulence. Gold, pearls, and gems were heaped in abundance.
"Does your father have this much treasure too?" Lott asked, astonished by the wealth before him.
Morgan shook her head. "No, my father isn't as wealthy as Vortigern."
Realizing something, she inquired, "Are you thinking of seizing my father's treasure too?"
Lott looked skyward, feigning innocence. "The sky is remarkably clear today."
Morgan rolled her eyes but then pondered the idea. Perhaps I should find a way to see my father's treasure house. I might find some interesting comparisons.
Morgan's thoughts reflected her own inherited affinity for treasure, just like the legendary red dragon's hoard. The intrigue of wealth and power seemed to run deep in her blood.
An Unsettling Alliance
With the treasure in hand and plans set, Lott and Morgan prepared to confront the next phase of their campaign. The dynamic between them—one driven by ambition and the other by a cunning strategy—promised to shape the future of their conquests and the fate of their enemies.
As they moved forward, the battle for Britain was far from over, and each decision made now would echo in the annals of history.