Guinevere, lost in her daydreams, envisioned a knight rescuing her from a besieged castle. Her thoughts were filled with romantic ideals of chivalry and heroism.
...
The next morning, Lott and Morgan enjoyed breakfast in the castle and had invited Altria to join them. There were three reasons for the invitation:
As Altria was Morgan's sister-in-law, it was only proper to include her.Altria's presence made the meal more pleasant and appetizing.Lott and Morgan, being fans of a variety of delicious foods but with average appetites, often ended up with leftover food that they hoped Altria would help consume.
Altria noticed Morgan's somewhat unnatural swallowing and inquired, "Your Majesty Morgan, why does it seem like you're having trouble eating today?"
Morgan's face flushed slightly, and she shot a quick, sharp glance at Lott. "Luscious, can't you manage to keep your endurance in check?" she thought.
"It's just that the sea breeze was strong last night, and it made things a bit chilly," Morgan explained, trying to cover up the real reason.
Lott, observing the scene, thought, Morgan's ability to concoct excuses has really improved. I'd figured it out quickly.
Morgan shot Lott a stern look, clearly irritated. She then returned to the conversation. "Anyway, Lott, do you think King Leodegrance will agree to our terms?"
Morgan was confident. "He'll definitely agree. If his situation is dire enough, he'll choose the survival of his kingdom over any other concern."
Lott agreed. "Yes, anyone in his position would understand the difference between losing their kingdom and just losing some property."
Altria, with a hint of discomfort, asked, "But isn't this a bit unfair to him?"
As a knight with a strong sense of justice, Altria was uncomfortable with the negotiation tactics. Despite Morgan's previous threats not to criticize her, she couldn't hold back her opinion.
Lott thought to himself, Altria is a true knight, embodying ideals rather than pragmatic concerns. Arthur never truly understood people's hearts.
Lott glanced at Morgan and thought, Well, my wife understands human nature quite well.
Morgan, feeling slightly perturbed by Lott's gaze, wondered why he was staring at her chest. She felt his thoughts were rather rude and intrusive.
She composed herself and replied to Altria, "Aid for the weak is what a knight should provide. But a true ruler must prioritize the interests of their country over mere chivalric ideals. As a king, one must bear the burden of their nation's needs."
Morgan wanted to impart some wisdom to her sister-in-law, even if she wasn't keen on seeing her sister take up kingship again.
Altria, still troubled, responded, "But isn't the spirit of chivalry important?"
Morgan, arms crossed and chest slightly pushed forward, retorted, "The well-being of the people is far more important than abstract ideals."
Altria sighed and nodded, "I understand."
As she left, she thought to herself, Morgan might not be the ideal monarch, but she does focus on what's practical for her people.
...
Morgan, with a pleased expression, turned to Lott and asked, "So, what do you think? Was my statement alright?"
"Absolutely," Lott replied, appreciating Morgan's pragmatic approach. At first, I was attracted to her looks, but now I admire her shared values. It'd be better if she could assist me in fishing though.
Morgan, feeling satisfied, was happy to see Lott's approval. She looked up at him with affection, and as they were about to kiss, the castle door swung open.
"Your Majesty, the messenger from King Leodegrance is here again…"
Altria, witnessing the intimate moment, thought, How many times have I walked in on them like this?
She quickly turned away, muttering to herself, I didn't see anything.
Altria felt a cold sweat form on her brow. She worried about the consequences of repeatedly witnessing such private moments between the royal couple.
Morgan, picking up her staff, and Lott, grabbing a knight's sword, prepared to meet the messenger.
"Come here, Altria. We have something for you," Lott and Morgan called out.
"Your Majesty!" Altria exclaimed in a panic.
...
As Lott and Morgan prepared to discuss their demands with the messenger, their mood was less than amiable. They were determined to make the most out of the negotiation.
If I don't extract every last bit from this, my name isn't Lott, he thought.
Morgan, nodding in agreement, mused, I'll squeeze every advantage out of this situation.
They eyed the messenger with greed, making him feel like they were about to demand more than just aid.
The messenger, sensing their intent, was increasingly anxious. Will what we offer be enough? Or will they demand more?
If Lott and Morgan could read his thoughts, they would nod in agreement.