Scenario:Lamorak - My Duty and My Future

My Duty and My Future

Lamorak accompanies Aglovale to Dalmore to apologize for the cabal's assault, but Aglovale, Florence, and Gawain defend him, resulting in his absolution. Frustrated by his failure to make amends, Lamorak is told by Aglovale to take his guilt and regret as punishment instead.

---

Lamorak: Whew...

Aglovale: What's the matter, Lamorak? Are you feeling anxious?

Lamorak: Well, of course I am! We're about to set foot in the castle of another country!

Aglovale and Lamorak have come to Dalmore together with Florence and Gawain, who are making a brief trip back home.

Lamorak: So, Aggy, Percy... What do you want me to do for Wales?

Aglovale: I already know exactly what I need from you.

Lamorak: Really? What is it?

Aglovale: You will be accompanying me to Dalmore.

Lamorak: ...

Aglovale: We must provide an explanation regarding the cabal's recent attack on the country.

Lamorak: Yeah, you're right... I need to own up to that before anything else.

Lamorak: (I'm prepared to face what I've done. That's why I came here—to apologize. But still...)

Lamorak: I can't help worrying this'll turn into a big diplomatic mess.

Lamorak: Don't get me wrong—I'm really grateful you came with me, Aggy. But...

Lamorak: I don't want you to end up getting dragged into this too.

Aglovale: Don't trouble yourself with such trivial concerns. How could I not accompany you to make amends for our family's misconduct?

Aglovale: As head of the House of Wales, it is only natural that I should attend personally to prevent a diplomatic incident.

Aglovale: This is a formal meeting between nations of equal standing. Hold your head high.

Lamorak: It won't be easy... but I'll do my best.

Florence: Gentlemen.

Florence: His Highness, Archduke Hyland, is ready for you now. Please, come this way.

Archduke Hyland: Ah, Sir Aglovale. Welcome.

Archduke Hyland: It seems Wales has suffered considerably. I've been concerned about the situation there.

Aglovale: Indeed, the damage was significant...

Aglovale: But I would like to express my deepest gratitude for Dalmore's steadfast support, particularly in deploying your knights and sorcerers to assist us.

Aglovale: Thanks in no small part to your aid, Albanorum appears to have withdrawn.

Aglovale: While we cannot yet let our guard down, I believe the immediate threat has passed.

Archduke Hyland: That is most welcome news. Now, concerning today's business...

Archduke Hyland: Florence has informed me that you wish to discuss the cabal's recent assault on Dalmore.

Lamorak: ...

Aglovale: Yes, regarding that matter...

While Lamorak tenses in anticipation, Aglovale proceeds with calm composure.

Aglovale: It came to light during the attack that my brother Lamorak, who stands here before us, was involved with the organization's actions.

Archduke Hyland: Wh-what! A noble of the House of Wales joined the cabal? And even took part in the strike on Dalmore?

Aglovale: For that, I offer my sincerest apologies.

Aglovale: However, his involvement was for the sole purpose of extracting information from Merlin.

Lamorak: ...!

Aglovale: Lamorak returned to Wales during the recent Albanorum invasion.

Aglovale: But prior to this, he discovered that Merlin has ties with Morgan, the mysterious fairy behind Albanorum's machinations.

Aglovale: This information is of paramount importance if we are to confront the true threat lurking behind the scenes on this island.

Lamorak: (Aggy... He's not even giving me a chance to apologize...)

Aglovale: Furthermore, the hybrid dragons used in the attack on Dalmore were a product of Merlin's magical research.

Aglovale: Lamorak did not directly take part in the violence. If anything...

Aglovale: Had he not been involved, the damage might have been far greater.

Archduke Hyland: Is that so? I don't want to argue, but it sounds like a rather elaborate excuse...

Florence: Your Highness. If I may interject?

As the archduke struggles to respond, Florence quietly speaks up next to him.

Archduke Hyland: O-of course. What is it, Florence?

Florence: Through that incident, Dalmore demonstrated its capability and might in repelling the cabal.

Florence: This ultimately culminated in the establishment of our three-nation alliance.

Archduke Hyland: W-well... That is true, I suppose...

Florence: And one more thing, if I may. Here.

Florence presents a book to the archduke.

Archduke Hyland: What is this?

Florence: It belonged to my mother, Morgause. She mentions Lord Lamorak in a number of entries.

Archduke Hyland: Morgause? But why...

Florence: He once came to study here in Dalmore. My mother served as his instructor in the magical arts.

Archduke Hyland: A-ah, yes. I remember now. So then...

At Florence's urging, Archduke Hyland begins leafing through Morgause's notes.

Archduke Hyland: Hmm... I see...

Archduke Hyland: For Morgause herself to speak so highly of him, Lamorak must truly have a gift for magic.

Archduke Hyland: But it's not only his magical abilities that are documented—his character is also described in great detail.

Archduke Hyland: Yes... I understand now...

Lamorak: (What do I do? They're talking about me, but I have no idea when I should jump in...)

Archduke Hyland: Hmm... This is certainly credible information, but it pertains only to the past.

Archduke Hyland: Oh, of course! Gawain!

The archduke turns to Gawain, who had been listening quietly to the conversation.

Archduke Hyland: Gawain, what say you?

Archduke Hyland: You were undeniably instrumental in defending against the cabal's attack.

Archduke Hyland: So I would like to hear your opinion as well.

Gawain: Well...

At the archduke's words, all eyes in the room shift to Gawain.

Gawain: I will defer to whatever you and Florence decide, Your Highness.

Archduke Hyland: Hmm... I do appreciate that. However...

Gawain: But if I may say just one thing—I was able to protect Dalmore. I can ask for nothing more than that.

Gawain: And should something similar occur in the future...

Gawain: I will fight with everything I have to protect this nation and drive away the enemy without fail.

Gawain: As long as I draw breath, I will never back down.

Lamorak: Gawain...

Gawain: Bearing that in mind, allowing him to go free shouldn't pose much of a threat.

Florence: Hehe.

Archduke Hyland: Hmm, I see...

Aglovale: Archduke Hyland.

Archduke Hyland: Y-yes, Sir Aglovale?

Aglovale: Whatever the circumstances or motivations, the fact remains that considerable harm was inflicted upon your nation.

Aglovale: As head of the House of Wales—and above all, as Lamorak's elder brother—I offer my deepest apologies.

Archduke Hyland: O-oh?

Seeing Aglovale bow his head, the archduke grows visibly flustered.

Aglovale: However...

Aglovale straightens up and fixes his gaze on Archduke Hyland.

Aglovale: This man's abilities are absolutely vital for the future of Wales.

Aglovale: And I assure you that he will prove to be a tremendous asset to our three-nation alliance.

Aglovale: Therefore, out of consideration for my position as head of the House of Wales, I ask that you show mercy in your decision.

Archduke Hyland: I-is that so? Hmm... I see...

After a moment of deliberation, the archduke nods.

Archduke Hyland: Very well. In that case, I won't hold Lamorak accountable for what happened.

Archduke Hyland: With you displaying such deference, Sir Aglovale, I can hardly refuse your request.

Lamorak: Hey, Aggy.

After departing from the castle, Lamorak turns to his brother with a conflicted expression.

Lamorak: Are you sure that was all right?

Aglovale: The archduke agreed, did he not?

Lamorak: That's not what I meant... Didn't you bring me here so I could apologize?

Lamorak: I was ready to accept responsibility, but it doesn't feel like I really got a chance to.

Lamorak: In fact, all I did was stand there listening while you bowed your head instead.

Lamorak: Florence and Gawain ended up defending me too.

Lamorak: It just feels like I haven't made amends at all...

Aglovale: Are you dissatisfied?

Lamorak: Not exactly. It's just...

Lamorak: (I feel totally useless. What was the point of me even coming here? At this rate...)

Aglovale: Endure it.

As Lamorak falls silent with a downcast look, Aglovale interrupts his thoughts with a curt response.

Aglovale: Take all the regret and guilt you feel as your punishment for what happened.

Lamorak: ...
Right. I'll do that.

Reflecting on his brother's words, Lamorak gives a slow nod.

My Duty and My Future: Scene 2

Relieved that Dindrane plans to learn magic and emotional control from Florence, Lamorak hopes they can become friends. When Bertilak of the Dalmore knights arrives and brands him an enemy, Lamorak thanks him for his candor and asks him to keep watch over his future actions.

---

Dindrane: Lord Lamorak!

Lamorak: Hey, Din!

Following his audience with Archduke Hyland, Lamorak is reunited with Dindrane at Florence's residence.

Lamorak: Florence already let me know, but I'm glad you made it out okay.

Dindrane: I should be the one saying that. I was worried, you know. It's a relief to see you're all right.

Lamorak: Yep. It's all thanks to you, Din.

Lamorak: You told Florence what was going on, so the whole Dalmore crew came to our rescue.

Lamorak: Me, Aggy, Percy—we're all safe. You're the savior of Wales.

Dindrane: No, that's not what I...

Dindrane: I only did it for you, Lord Lamorak. So long as you remain safe, that's all that matters to me.

Lamorak: Hmm, I see...

Lamorak: Oh, right! I heard from Florence that you're going to be staying in Dalmore to study under her!

Dindrane: Not by my own choice.

Dindrane: I was told that accepting her offer was the condition for Dalmore sending aid to Wales.

Lamorak: Even so, I think it'll be a good experience for you.

Florence: It seems Dindrane possesses a rather unique magical ability.

Lamorak: I should've known you'd pick up on that.

Lamorak: The magical charm she has eats away at her life the more she uses it.

Lamorak: It's basically a curse that was placed on her by my own family, the House of Wales.

Lamorak: I've told her not to use it anymore, but it's not like that alone will make it go away.

Florence: I understand your concern. She does seem to be a rather volatile individual.

Lamorak: Yeah, you're right about that. But she's got a good heart deep down.

Lamorak: She's apparently decided that I'm her master or something...

Lamorak: But honestly, I'd much rather her just live her own life.

Lamorak: A life that's hers alone, where she doesn't have to serve anyone.

Florence: I see. I'm glad I was able to hear your true feelings.

Florence: You really are just the person I thought you were.

Lamorak: Huh? What do you mean?

Florence gives Lamorak a gentle smile as he tilts his head in confusion.

Florence: I'd like Dindrane to remain with me to study under my instruction.

Florence: Not just about magic, but also about managing her own emotions.

Florence: But only if you approve, of course.

Lamorak: Absolutely!

Lamorak: I think Din needs connections in her life that have nothing to do with Wales or masters—any of that kind of stuff.

Lamorak: I know I can trust you to look after her.

Lamorak: I hope you and Florence can become good friends.

Dindrane: Friends?

Dindrane: If that's what you command, Lord Lamorak, then...

Lamorak: No, no! It's not a command or anything. I just want you to—

???: Hey, hold it!

???: Shut up and get outta my way! He's in there right now, isn't he?

Two men can suddenly be heard arguing loudly outside the house.

Lamorak: What's going on? Is someone here?

Gawain: Stop right there, Bertilak!

Bertilak: Why're you trying to stop me, Gawain? That guy's an enemy who put all of Dalmore in danger!

Gawain: How do you even know about that?

Florence: It certainly is strange. We agreed to keep the contents of our discussion private to avoid needlessly inciting fear among the people.

Bertilak: Hah! For someone like me, figuring out what you guys talked about in there was child's play.

Gawain: Wait! Don't tell me you were eavesdropping!

Florence: Oh, honestly. There you go using your magical talents for such foolish purposes again...

Bertilak: Hah! You're the idiots for not noticing!

Bertilak: Enough talk! Just bring Lamorak out here already!

Lamorak: Say, what's all the ruckus?

Gawain: Lamorak, stay back! This could get messy...

Bertilak: So you're Lamorak?

Lamorak: Yeah, that's me. Who are you?

Florence: Sigh... This is Bertilak. He's a knight of Dalmore.

Lamorak: Wow, a knight, huh? What business does a knight have with me?

Bertilak: I came to tell you I'm not letting you off the hook. That's all there is to it!

Lamorak: ...

Bertilak: You might've been able to pull a fast one over on His Highness, Florence, and Gawain since they're so softhearted...

Bertilak: But no matter your excuse, the fact that you put Dalmore at grave risk still remains.

Bertilak: Do you have any idea how bad the damage could've been if anything had gone wrong?

Bertilak: That's why I'll never forgive you! You're an enemy of Dalmore!

Lamorak: I see...

Lamorak: Um... Bertilak, was it?

Lamorak: Thank you.

Bertilak: H-huh? Why're you thanking me! Are you messing with me or something?

Lamorak: Nope, not at all.

Lamorak: What you said makes perfect sense. I couldn't agree more.

Lamorak: That sort of straightforward response is exactly what I needed to hear right now.

Bertilak: Wh-what the? I seriously don't get you...

Lamorak: But I won't take that hostility of yours for granted. I'll prove myself through my actions from now on.

Lamorak: So I hope you'll keep a close eye on me.

Bertilak: Huh? Take my hostility... for granted?
What's with this guy! He's creeping me out!

Gawain: Sigh... All right, you've said your piece. Let's go, Bertilak!

Bertilak: Hey! Hands off, Gawain! I'm not done yet—

Bertilak: Damn it!

My Duty and My Future: Scene 3

Percival welcomes Lamorak back to Wales with relief, having feared he wouldn't return. Though Lamorak promises not to abandon his homeland in its time of need, his brothers urge him to pursue his childhood dream of traveling once things stabilize—provided he stays safe and comes home someday.

---

Just as Bertilak is dragged out of sight by Gawain, Aglovale makes his appearance.

Aglovale: What was all that commotion?

Lamorak: Oh, nothing, Aggy. How was your tour?

Aglovale: Enlightening. Despite their modest size, the knights' facilities here in Dalmore are surprisingly well-equipped.

Aglovale: There is much that Wales could learn from their example. It was a productive visit.

Aglovale: And you? Have you finished your business?

Lamorak: Yeah, I'm all set. Let's go home to Wales.

Aglovale: Very well... But are you certain?

Lamorak: Huh? Yeah, of course. We can't leave Percy to hold down the fort forever.

Thus, Lamorak and Aglovale make their way back to Wales together.

Percival: Aglovale, Lamorak. Welcome back, both of you.

Lamorak: Hey, Percy! We're home!
(Captain), thanks for keeping an eye on things here with my brother and the crew.

Vyrn: You betcha! Glad to have ya back!

Lyria: We helped out Percival with all sorts of things as his vassals!

Aglovale: Were you able to handle the matter I entrusted to you during our absence?

Percival: Yes. I've been working to confirm and catalog the damage across different regions, as well as the whereabouts and safety of our evacuees...

Percival: But I still haven't managed to get a complete picture yet.

Aglovale: I see. Well, it isn't something that can be accomplished overnight.

Percival: True enough. How did things go on your end?

Aglovale: We were able to gain Dalmore's understanding.

Percival: That's excellent news. Then... you're really home for good, Lamorak?

Seeing the somewhat astonished expression on Percival's face, Lamorak responds with a puzzled look.

Lamorak: What's wrong, Percy? Did you not want me to come back?

Lamorak: Or did you think I'd get thrown into a Dalmore prison or something?

Percival: No, that's not it! I just, well...

Lyria: Percival was really worried about you the whole time.

Vyrn: He was stressin' over whether Dalmore would let ya go, sure...

Vyrn: But even if things worked out, he was scared ya might just up and disappear again.

Percival: Hey! Vyrn, Lyria! He doesn't need to know that!

Lamorak: Ahaha. Guess you really can't trust me, huh? Not that I blame you, considering my track record.

Lamorak: But don't worry. I'm not going to take off and leave Wales high and dry like this.

Aglovale: That said, I doubt you will remain here for long.

Lamorak: Wha—seriously, Aggy?

Aglovale: You were never the type to be satisfied staying in one place.

Percival: Yes, I can't really see you settling down.

Lamorak: Not you too, Percy!

Percival: It's not that I don't trust you. Having you back in Wales is incredibly reassuring.

Percival: But...

Percival: Haven't you always dreamed of traveling the skies since you were young?

Lamorak: Well, yeah. But still...

Aglovale: I have no intention of keeping you shackled to this country forever.

Aglovale: Naturally, I do plan on working you to the bone in the meantime...

Aglovale: But once our national affairs are in order, you are free to go wherever you please.

Lamorak: But Aggy, I...

Percival: It's all right, Lamorak.

Percival: No matter where you are, as long as you stay safe and come home again from time to time, that's enough.

Aglovale: Just don't forget that we agreed to give an update at Father and Mother's graveside.

Lamorak: You guys...

Lamorak: H-hey, wait a second! Are you two saying I'd just be a nuisance if I stayed in Wales?

Vyrn: Ahaha! If you do ever get told you're in the way, you can always join our crew! We'll look after ya.

Lyria: Yeah, that would be so much fun!

At Vyrn and Lyria's suggestion, (Captain) smiles and gives an eager nod.

Lamorak: Hehe. Thanks, you three.

Lamorak: Maybe one day I'll take you up on that adventure.

Even from within the darkness, the future Lamorak glimpses shines brightly, like the endless blue sky above.