All that night Laudine lay awake wondering how she could protect the Spring and about the knight Lunette had spoken of. What was he like? She wished she had not shouted at the girl and scolded her. Surely now Lunette would not like her any more.
So in the morning she said she was sorry to Lunette, for she knew she'd been wrong to be angry with her and insult her as she had done.
'Who is this man you've told me about?' she went on. 'What kind of man is he? Is he of noble birth? If he is worthy of me, and willing, perhaps I'll do as you say. I'll marry him and give him both my lands and myself.'
'His name's Yvain.'
'King Urien's son?'
'Yes, my lady. You've heard of him already I see.'
'And when can we see him?'
'In five days' time.'
'So long? Can't he come sooner?'
'I'll send the fastest messenger we have to search for him at King Arthur's court,' Lunette told her.
'There's a full moon - the messenger can travel by night as well as day,' said Laudine hopefully.
'Perhaps three days then', said Lunette.
'I wish he was here already,' complained Laudine.
'Meanwhile,' Lunette advised her, 'you must call your men together. Explain that King Arthur is coming with a great army to attack the Spring. Tell them a famous knight wants to marry you and defend the Spring, but that you dare not accept him unless they agree. They'll be so glad not to have to fight themselves, they'll fall at your feet and thank you a thousand times.'
