Lancelot was grappling with the challenges of finding a way to make a name for himself. The idea of confronting a dragon or fighting Vortigern seemed overwhelming, and he wasn't sure if he had the ability to tackle such tasks. His thoughts were interrupted by a commotion up ahead.
"Quick, catch up!"
"Grab him! He's trying to escape!"
"Let's deal with this person who refuses to pay!"
Lancelot looked up to see a group of people chasing a white-haired figure. The scene unfolding before him was a chaotic pursuit.
Lancelot was initially surprised but decided to intervene. He reached out with his foot to trip the white-haired individual, causing him to stumble and fall. The group quickly surrounded the figure, preparing to exact punishment.
"Here's what you get for freeloading," one of the attackers shouted.
"You can't just skip out on paying for your services!" another added.
The crowd began to beat the white-haired man, who was none other than Merlin.
Lancelot initially watched the scene with curiosity, finding some satisfaction in seeing the white-haired figure, whom he presumed to be a common troublemaker, being punished. However, as he observed more closely, he realized that Merlin, despite the commotion, seemed unharmed. This made Lancelot wonder about Merlin's true identity and strength.
As the attackers finished their rough treatment and walked away, Merlin stood up with a smile. He dusted himself off and looked at Lancelot with a wry expression. "If you hadn't tripped me, I might have escaped."
Lancelot, intrigued by Merlin's resilience, remarked, "Any knight with a sense of justice would have intervened in such a situation."
Merlin's nonchalant attitude piqued Lancelot's curiosity further. "Aren't you concerned about your reputation? I mean, even the national teacher having to deal with such issues..."
Merlin laughed. "The problem isn't with Camelot's economy per se. I spent too much on my own. I even asked His Royal Highness Morgan for a raise, but it was turned down."
Lancelot was astonished. "So, even the national teacher is struggling with finances and debts? That's quite surprising."
Merlin's demeanor shifted slightly as he responded, "I thought you would be more surprised by my identity. But yes, I tend to spend my own money quite liberally."
Lancelot, intrigued, asked, "What are you planning to do next? Are you heading back to France?"
"Of course not," Lancelot replied firmly. "I intend to make a name for myself here in Britain."
"Really? How do you plan to achieve that?" Merlin inquired, a hint of skepticism in his voice.
"I have my own swordsmanship. Even if I'm not famous immediately, I believe my skills will eventually make me renowned," Lancelot said confidently.
Merlin considered Lancelot's response. "Sometimes, creating opportunities requires more than just skill. Would you like help finding such opportunities?"
Merlin's suggestion was subtle, but Lancelot understood it as an offer for assistance. He was intrigued but cautious. "I will stay in Chalk City for now. I'll let you know if I need any help, Mr. Merlin."
Merlin stroked his chin thoughtfully as Lancelot walked away. "It seems this young Lancelot isn't easily deceived," he mused. Despite the setbacks with the Sword in the Stone and the fact that Altria had not yet become king, Merlin remained determined to build his own team and find ways to align Lancelot with his goals.
Meanwhile, Altria was enjoying a rare break. She tasted a snack and remarked with a slight frown, "Knights shouldn't be picky, but the snacks here aren't as good as the ones back at our barracks."
Altria reflected on the comforts she missed, especially the delicious meals prepared by Morgan and Lott. "I really wish I could have more of those meals. They were truly special."
That night, Morgan curled up in Lott's arms like a contented kitten. Her pale feet playfully moved across his body, teasing him gently.
Lott looked at Morgan's smiling face, feeling a mix of affection and irritation. Ten more months... just ten more months. The pregnancy will last nine months, and then a month of confinement. I'll see what happens then.