As Lott and Morgan's army continued their journey, they encountered a new force. It was not a hostile force; rather, the army appeared poorly equipped and was carrying gifts. They were not preparing for battle with Camelot.
When Camelot's army approached, the opposing army seemed taken aback. From their ranks, a distinguished figure emerged. This man had striking red hair and a handsome face, though his eyes were partially closed. He held a harp, and an aura of melancholy lingered around him.
Morgan, observing this man, sensed that his presence was notable. She speculated that he might be a significant figure, possibly even a master of sorts. Comparing him to others, she mused that his strength could surpass that of the average warrior. This led her to reflect on Lott's lack of diligence compared to other knights, who dedicated their mornings to training.
The red-haired man approached Lott and Morgan's army, and with a respectful bow, addressed Lott. "Greetings, I am Tristan, a servant of King Marko. May I inquire as to who you are?"
Lott and Morgan both scrutinized Tristan. Morgan, with some surprise, confirmed, "Yes, we are Morgan and Lott of Camelot."
Tristan greeted them courteously. "It is an honour to meet Your Majesties."
Curious about their purpose, Morgan asked, "What brings you here? Are you here to present gifts?"
"Indeed," Tristan replied. "I am on my way to Ireland for my uncle, King Marko, to arrange a marriage with Princess Isod."
Morgan considered this information. King Marko ruled Cornwall, a region in southwestern Britain with a favourable relationship with Ireland. This connection could prove advantageous for plans, potentially serving as a stepping stone for expanding Camelot's influence.
Morgan's thoughts drifted to how acquiring Cornwall and Ireland might strengthen their position and make future campaigns easier. Her ambitions were to consolidate power and expand their realm, and she saw this as an opportunity.
Meanwhile, Lott also recognized Tristan, though his thoughts were less focused on strategic gains. He was intrigued by the unexpected encounter with Tristan. Morgan, keen to understand Lott's thoughts, listened intently.
Morgan pondered Tristan's situation. "How intriguing. Tristan is helping his uncle with a marriage proposal. I hadn't expected that."
Morgan was struck by the tragic nature of Tristan's background. He was named Tristan, meaning "son of sorrow," reflecting the hardships faced from birth. His mother died during childbirth, and his father had passed away before he was born. Raised by King Marko, Tristan's life was marked by deep personal trials, including a complicated love triangle involving his uncle and Princess Isod.
Morgan was taken aback by the complexity of Tristan's circumstances. She felt that Tristan's tragic story was emblematic of the turbulent lives of many knights. Comparing Tristan's fate to her own, she felt fortunate in her political marriage to Lott, despite its nature.
With a mixture of sympathy and strategic calculation, Morgan addressed Tristan, "I wish you a safe journey. Be prepared for challenges ahead."
Turning to Lott with affection, she added, "We must continue our journey."
As Morgan and her entourage prepared to move on, Tristan watched them depart, puzzled by the underlying message in Morgan's words. He wondered if there was more to her sympathy than met the eye, pondering what difficulties awaited him on his journey to Ireland.
After their encounter with Tristan, the mood within Lott's army lightened. The troops set up camp, and Lott and Morgan settled into their tent, awaiting their meal. Lott relaxed in his chair, reflecting on the melancholy atmosphere Tristan had left behind.
Morgan overheard Lott's musings and was surprised by his assessment. She questioned whether Tristan, with his tragic background, could indeed become a member of the esteemed Knights of the Round Table, given his apparent martial prowess.
Morgan was curious to see how Tristan's story would unfold and what role he might play in their future endeavours.