A New Challenge
Despite Lott's exhaustion, he was touched by Morgan's concern and affection.
Morgan thought about how much she appreciated Lott, who she felt was a rare gem in this era. She had overheard some of his more unconventional ideas about their future, which were quite different from the more mundane notions she had heard from other noblewomen.
Feeling both flattered and slightly embarrassed, Morgan considered Lott's creative imagination. As she reflected on his words, her cheeks flushed with warmth, and she felt a sense of steam rising from her head.
Morgan then decided to approach the situation with a playful tone. "Why don't you continue with your work? I'll stay by your side and keep you company," she said, trying to lighten the mood.
Lott looked up, puzzled. "Aren't you going to rest?"
Morgan rested her chin on her hand and smiled at him. "You once told me that a pregnant woman should find joy in her life. Seeing your work makes me happy."
Lott felt a surge of affection for Morgan. She's so adorable, he thought.
"Alright, then. You stay here and watch while I handle these affairs," Lott said, his enthusiasm rekindled by her presence.
Morgan gave him an encouraging nod and settled beside him.
Lott resumed working, but as he delved into the documents related to Camelot's territories, his earlier smile began to fade. The reality of the kingdom's situation was starkly different from the prosperity of Chalk City.
Britain had long been in a state of decline, plagued by frequent conflicts and poor agricultural conditions. The lands outside Chalk City were impoverished, and the situation seemed dire.
Lott sighed, "Camelot's glory is facing a significant challenge."
Morgan, initially smiling, noticed his shift in demeanour and grew concerned. "What's wrong?"
Husband and Wife, Never Defeated
Lott was disheartened by the grim reality of Britain's conditions and found himself reflecting on their situation.
Morgan, seeing his distress, asked, "What's troubling you?"
Lott's initial response was a mix of frustration and self-pity. Why am I letting myself get caught up in this? He thought. Why do I have to deal with such a challenging situation?
He then mused about how Morgan had given him a playful nickname, one he found amusing but also slightly embarrassing. She's so persistent with this nickname, he thought with a mix of affection and exasperation.
Morgan noticed his internal struggle and, in a bid to lighten the mood, suggested, "How about a different nickname for you? Maybe something more flattering?"
Lott considered her suggestion. "Such as?"
Morgan suggested, "How about 'handsome husband' or 'most beautiful man'? Though, 'Darling' might work too."
Lott thought for a moment and then replied, "Whatever you prefer."
Morgan rolled her eyes playfully. "Those are a bit too clichéd."
She then offered a compromise. "If we're in public, I'll use something like 'Darling' or 'husband.' But when we're alone, I might call you something different."
Lott accepted this arrangement with a smile, though he continued to feel a bit self-conscious about the playful nickname.
As Lott worked through the files, he handed one to Morgan, saying, "Take a look at these."
Morgan reviewed the documents and her expression became troubled. The data revealed severe shortages in agricultural production across Britain, excluding Chalk City and Orkney.
"This is not just a local issue, is it?" Morgan asked, her concern growing.
"Unfortunately, it's a widespread problem," Lott confirmed. "Chalk City and Orkney are exceptions, but the rest of Britain is in severe decline."
Morgan was shocked. "Why haven't the nobles informed us about this?"
Lott's thoughts were clear. The nobles are insulated from these issues. It's the common people who suffer, and the nobles remain oblivious.
Morgan was silent for a moment, processing the gravity of the situation. "What should we do?"
Lott reflected on the broader issues affecting Britain. The land's barrenness is partly due to long-term conflicts and the disappearance of the gods. It's as if the world itself is conspiring against us.
Morgan's eyes widened. The gods have abandoned Britain? Are we destined for ruin?
But she quickly resolved to counter this fate. We won't succumb to this. We will fight against the odds.
Lott, considering his options, thought about delegating the issue to Merlin and Altria. Previously, I might have left this to them. But now, I want to work alongside Morgan and make sure our efforts yield results.
Morgan resolved and unwavering, listened intently as Lott began to formulate a plan to address the dire situation facing Britain.
As Camelot embarked on this new era, Lott and Morgan faced significant challenges, but their commitment to overcoming them together was unwavering. Their journey was just beginning, and the road ahead promised both trials and triumphs.