Shifting Loyalties and Unfolding Secrets
Altria, keenly aware of the implications of her words, addressed Galahad's question regarding Morgan's rule. "Indeed, it is very good," she said, trying to flatter Morgan while speaking honestly. "The aspects of fighting and governance are consistent. Under His Royal Highness Morgan, we have successfully defeated the Humble King. Politically, His Majesty Lot has shown fairness in Chalk City, and the people's lives are markedly improved compared to when King Uther ruled."
Altria's praise was genuine, but it also served to curry favour with Morgan. Knights might uphold honour, but even they could be swayed by more immediate concerns, like food.
Galahad, reflecting on Altria's comments, was surprised. Is Camelot truly better off under Morgan than under King Arthur? He had previously seen the well-governed Chalk City and felt it was flourishing.
Morgan, observing Galahad's reaction, was deep in thought. She was not naive; she knew that despite Galahad's current alignment with Lott, his loyalty was not absolute. I need to find a way to secure his full allegiance, she mused. He seems like a straightforward boy.
Morgan considered how to leverage Galahad's simple nature to her advantage. She recalled Lott's recent thoughts about the situation and realized there might be a strategy to employ.
Morgan looked at Lott with affection. She approached him and patted him on the shoulder, then kissed him on the cheek. "This is your reward."
Lott, taken aback, wondered about the nature of this reward. Wasn't the reward already given for his role today? Why the additional gesture?
Upon returning to Chalk City, Morgan used magic to communicate with Galahad. "It must be troubling to fight against your father," the voice echoed in his mind.
Galahad's eyes widened in surprise. She knows everything about me. The realization struck him deeply. He wondered how Morgan knew so much and why she chose to reveal it in such a cryptic manner. This must be kept secret, he thought. Morgan has her reasons for this.
Galahad decided to focus on the more pressing matters at hand, knowing he might meet his father again once the current issues were resolved.
In the city, Lancelot began his investigation. He was struck by the city's prosperity and the cheerful faces of its people. This was contrary to the negative reports he had received.
As Lancelot explored, he spoke with a shopkeeper. "If it weren't for His Highness Morgan providing interest-free loans, would your shop have been able to operate?" he asked.
The shopkeeper confirmed, "Indeed. Without Morgan's support, we wouldn't have been able to recover from the losses caused by Vortigern's soldiers."
Lancelot was faced with conflicting information. Was I deceived? he wondered.
Meanwhile, Merlin observed Lancelot's exploration from a distance. He noted the discrepancy in the situation and planned to correct it. The current state of affairs is far from what I anticipated. I must adjust my strategy accordingly.
Merlin's thoughts were interrupted by the sight of Galahad among Lott's group. What is Galahad doing here? Merlin was astonished. He shouldn't be present at this point! The unexpected appearance of Galahad left Merlin flustered and uncertain.
As Lott and his entourage returned, the atmosphere in Chalk City grew tense. The people were on edge, and the situation seemed increasingly precarious.