Lott and Morgan observed Merlin's peculiar appearance as they approached him. Merlin's normally long, grey hair was dishevelled, and one of his eyes had developed a distinct black eye, making him resemble a panda. Lott was struck by the sight, wondering who had managed to inflict such an injury on the renowned wizard.
As they approached, they saw Merlin and King Uther in the bar. Merlin was making an unwelcome advance towards a waitress, while Uther, dressed as an adventurer, regaled others with exaggerated tales of his youthful exploits.
"I told you, when I was younger, I was the heroic King Uther who fought across the east and the north. We even slew a dragon!" Uther boasted grandly.
Morgan exchanged a look with Lott, amused yet perplexed by Uther's braggadocio. "Do you think it's feasible to use magic to record these stories and later threaten him to pass Camelot to us?" Morgan suggested with a mischievous grin.
"It doesn't seem impossible," Lott agreed, still chuckling at the absurdity.
Most of the patrons appeared sceptical of Uther's tales. One jested, "If you were such a great warrior, why are you just an adventurer now?"
Uther, spotting Morgan and Lott, grinned widely. "Ah, my beloved daughter and son-in-law have arrived! They're quite the sight, aren't they?"
Morgan and Lott were taken aback by Uther's lack of discretion. Morgan was visibly embarrassed and tried to pull her father away. "Dad, come on. We need to go."
"Hey, I haven't finished my drink yet!" Uther protested half-heartedly as Morgan led him out.
Lott, observing Merlin's hand nearing the waitress's rear, decided it was time to intervene. "Oh, that's a bit too close. You're almost touching," he said, grabbing Merlin's hand before it could make contact.
Merlin, with a regretful look, remarked, "I almost had it."
"Alright, let's head outside. If you keep this up, you might end up with a matching black eye on the other side," Lott warned.
Merlin shrugged and followed Lott outside without further protest. Once outside, Lott inquired, "So, what happened to your face? Who did this to you?"
"If I said it was His Majesty, how would you respond?" Merlin asked a hint of humour in his voice.
"I'd only say one thing," Lott replied candidly, "His Majesty's punches are too light. If it were me, I'd hit harder."
Merlin gave a familiar wry smile and shrugged. Lott's ability to deal with him was clear; Merlin's predictability made him less of a challenge.
When they were outside, Morgan addressed her father with a mixture of exasperation and concern. "Father, what are you doing? Instead of handling state matters, you're here at a small bar catching fish. Is this fair?"
Uther seemed slightly embarrassed, scratching his head. "I'm just trying to relax. I've fought all my life; isn't it okay to enjoy myself now?"
Morgan, though unimpressed, had to acknowledge Uther's point. "Yes, but really?"
Uther continued, "I used to have adventures when I was young. After becoming king, I rarely had such moments. Today, with the whole city celebrating, I just wanted to experience some joy."
Morgan could only shake her head, unsure how to respond. She was still pondering her father's actions when Lott's words echoed in her mind, "[My old husband, my body is not as relaxed as it seems outside.]" It was clear to her that Uther was still a formidable presence despite his attempts at relaxation.
King Uther then spoke to Morgan. "Morgan, go check on the banquet preparations. Make sure everything is in order."
"Alright, Father," Morgan agreed, recognizing the necessity of the task.
As Morgan left, Uther turned his attention back to Merlin, raising his fist with a playful glint in his eye. Merlin, who had been touching his bruised eye, responded, "Shall I go then?"
"Yes, go on," Uther and Lott nodded in unison.
Merlin left, leaving Lott and King Uther alone.
Uther, in a serious tone, addressed Lott, "Come with me."
Lott followed Uther to a more secluded spot. Uther spoke directly and solemnly, "My body can no longer bear the weight of being the king of Britain."
Three Last Wills
"Understood," Lott replied with a nod.
"You don't seem surprised?" Uther observed Lott's reaction with some curiosity.
"This is evident to anyone. Your Majesty, your health has been deteriorating," Lott responded.
He then asked, "How much longer do you have?"
Uther looked taken aback by the direct question. "You're not afraid of being blunt?"
Uther, recognizing Lott's sincerity and strength, decided not to be offended. "I'm not sure. It could be days, or it could be months. My time is almost up, though."
Lott said nothing but continued to listen attentively. Uther continued, "Lott, both you and Morgan are remarkable individuals. Once I'm gone, Chalk City will belong to you. Keep it safe."
"I understand," Lott affirmed with resolve.
Lott realized that King Uther was nearing the end of his journey but appreciated the opportunity to ensure a dignified end for him. Uther's legacy would be different from history, marked by glory rather than regret.
At this moment, King Uther continued, addressing Lott with a serious tone.