“If we move against Tlachtga we’ll have a blood bath on our hands; she is so loved my her people. Even the army idolizes her, and they might join in the fray,” cried Oroveso.
“Let's leave everything, Tlachtga. You and Publius get out there and address the people, and say that all charges against you and Publius have been dropped,” shouted Oroveso.
“What!” cried everyone.
“I’m going to travel back to Rome to see what can be arranged with the mine,” said Publius.
“Meeting adjourned!” shouted Oroveso.
Tlachtga and Publius left the temple and confronted her people, “Dear loyal subjects, I’ve never failed in my duties towards you all, both in peace and war. I’ve raised this nation to be the envy of friends and foe. During my relationship with Publius, this country has enjoyed peace as never before. How can we bestow anything but our gratitude upon him? Oroveso has instructed me to tell you, all charges against Publius and myself have been dropped. My tenure as queen will continue. My love for you all will never diminish,” cried Tlachtga.
With that she stood back to allow Publius to address the throng.
“Dear Aceni people. Censure me in your wisdom and awake your senses that you might be the better judge. During my tenure with Tlachtga I’ve develop a great love and respect for you all. I address you as a friend and not an enemy. If falling for Tlachtga was wrong, then I’m guilty of a grievous sin. But Oroveso and his noble counsel have exonerated us both. I’ll be travelling to Rome to plead your case for the copper mine and pray an equitable solution can be foun, and lead to happier days.”
Both sat down to a tumultuous roar and shouts of, “Long live Tlachtga, may she live for ever.”
That night celebrations broke out among the Iceni people as a rebellion had been avoided. Their love for Tlachtga had been restored. Publius travelled to Rome, and with great oratory skill persuaded the senate to settle for a royalty rather than occupation of the mine. When this message was delivered to Tlachtga and her people, it elevated Publius to the status of a mini god.
Tlachtga was a frequent face at Londinium and in like manner, Publius at the Isle of Mona. They continued their relationship and great peace settled on Avalon. So ends our tale of love most sublime and Tlachtga did bear a son to Publius.
Epilogue.
Sing me a song, string it on a harp and lute. Ya, let us travel the portals of time to witness it’s power, to hear of Helen of Troy the face that launched a thousand ships. To return her to Greece.
When men chanced everything even war to win the noble prize.
When poets, writers of the human soul bequeath their laments of love.
Love truly conquers all.
