Chapter 17: The Plan
"There is something I have deeply wanted to ask you, my friend," Merlin began in a hushed tone, ensuring his words were delicate and cautious.
"I have a lingering doubt concerning your heir—Artoria, to be precise. What do you intend to do with her? Do you plan to send her to Londinium to besiege and kill Vortigern?" His voice was barely above a whisper as he spoke, casting furtive glances around. For added security, he discreetly cast a soundproof spell, ensuring that no unwelcome ears could overhear their conversation.
The atmosphere was thick with the presence of unseen observers. Too many eyes and ears lurked in the shadows surrounding them, particularly among the knights escorting King Uther to his court council.
Merlin wasn't entirely sure how his friend would view their presence, so he took no chances. He spoke in a subdued tone, hoping to keep their exchange calm and confidential.
"No," King Uther responded with a deep sigh of regret.
"She is not yet capable of killing him. Vortigern is shielded by the Island itself. Artoria still needs to grow—she needs more experience before she can stand against him. But, alas, time waits for no one, Merlin." The king's voice carried the weight of his concern.
His worry was far from unwarranted. At this time, Artoria was merely 15 years old, while Vortigern was a seasoned warrior, far older and more experienced than even Uther himself.
Vortigern, who was essentially Artoria's uncle, had seen countless battles and wars, while Artoria had only faced bandits. Vortigern had clashed with warlords, heroes, and various monsters across the Island, while Artoria's experiences were, by comparison, minor skirmishes.
"Should we recall her from Londinium, then?" Merlin inquired.
"It would be appreciated," Uther responded with a nod. "I need her presence in Camelot more than ever. Besides, Morgan is more than capable of keeping Vortigern at bay. He won't dare attack Camelot or move as freely as before unless he's willing to risk losing his capital."
He chuckled softly, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes.
"Furthermore, I need to unite Britannia quickly, Merlin," Uther continued, the urgency clear in his voice. "Only then can I set my sights on Rome. I am all too aware that their emperor is eager to conquer our lands, and the Church must be eliminated before they become a threat to our interests. Their support for the Emperor of Rome is concerning. I am certain they would betray us at the first opportunity if Rome were to invade our shores."
"It's easier said than done, my friend. Easier said than done," Merlin sighed heavily, sharing in Uther's burden. "There are so many competing interests here. Conquering Britannia is proving to be far more difficult than subduing Rome, as much as I hate to admit it. If you truly wish to oppose the Church, I suggest you act swiftly before their reinforcements arrive. You could consider allying with the Eclipse Princess—she would be eager to assist in rooting out the Church's influence."
"Seeking her help is out of the question, Merlin," Uther responded, shaking his head firmly. "The Eclipse Princess would bring more trouble than she's worth. Her vampire armies, thirsting for blood, would wreak havoc upon our lands if they were to stay. I know all too well that once she is invited, it will be nearly impossible to send her away. If she develops an interest in Britannia, the consequences would be dire. Unlike the Church, which operates with some restraint, she has no morals and no obligation to follow my rules. Undoubtedly, my people would suffer—becoming nothing more than blood rations for her vampire armies. That is a risk I cannot afford."
"However," Uther continued after a brief pause, "your suggestion to root out the Church must be acted upon. Tonight, we will drive them out of Camelot once and for all. We will show them no mercy."
"Then it shall be done, my king," Merlin replied, bowing respectfully.
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