Magic Maker - How to make magic in another world - - Chapter 24

Magic Maker – How to make magic in another world –

Chapter 24   Because I’m on your side

When I woke up, my body felt sluggish. Lately, due to my continuous research into magic, I’ve been having poor sleep. Maybe I’m pushing myself a bit too hard.

There’s a lot that I’ve come to understand, and I feel like I’m making gradual progress, so I can’t just stop. It’s a bit like not knowing when to stop playing an interesting game.

Anyway, perhaps I should exercise some restraint.

Well, that’s the plan, but for today, I’ll continue with my research.

I got out of bed and headed downstairs to the living room. It was still morning, but not too early, probably around 7:00.

My mother was the only one in the living room. There were a few dishes on the table, but only two of them – one for me and one for my mother.

“Good morning, Mom. Where’s Dad and Marie?”

“Oh, good morning, Shion-kun. Your father went to Sanostria for work. Marie-chan is practicing with her sword outside.”

“I see… Marie is practicing again.”

I glanced out the window to see my sister continuing to swing her sword. It stirred up mixed emotions in me. Her expression was serious, and from a distance, she seemed unapproachable.

She practiced from early morning until late in the evening, every day. I used to think she’d eventually settle down, but there was no sign of that.

While I couldn’t really say anything about someone else’s dedication, I felt like my sister might be pushing herself a bit too hard.

“Let’s eat,” I said.

“Yeah.”

My mother didn’t say anything but appeared somewhat lonely as she spoke.

Both my father and mother had indirectly advised Marie to take a break, but she’d always say that she was fine.

I had also offered words of encouragement, but she remained as determined as ever. Besides her strong attachment to training, nothing had changed about her.

I could sense the concerns in the hearts of my family. We had encountered situations where my parents would say, “Don’t worry about what happened that day,” but my sister remained unchanged. She wasn’t doing anything wrong or harming anyone; she was simply working hard to get better.

My parents couldn’t scold her, and they seemed to be troubled. She was putting in the effort to improve herself, and maybe it was challenging to advise her otherwise.

As of now, it hadn’t grown into a significant problem, which somehow made it more complicated. My magic research, on the other hand, faced constant critique from my family, and they often had various things to say. However, I was generally allowed to do what I wanted. In dangerous cases, my father accompanied me.

Without magic, they probably wouldn’t have done that. Balancing between over-involvement and being hands-off was challenging.

My mother and I ate without exchanging many words. Suddenly, I noticed that she appeared somewhat conflicted. She occasionally glanced at me, then looked down at her meal, and then back at me.

It was unusual behavior for my mother. She was usually warm, smiling, and supportive. But today, my mother’s demeanor was clearly different.

“…Is this about Marie?”

I suddenly spoke the thought that crossed my mind.

It seemed to hit the mark, as my mother looked troubled, but eventually she answered.

“Why do you think that?”

“I thought that because you were hesitating to talk, and I figured you might be trying to ask me for something. Given recent events and what I can do, I thought it might be about Marie. If you’re coming to me for help, it must be about her.”

My mother looked surprised, but then she sighed in resignation.

“Shion-kun is really clever… Yes, you’re right. I was going to talk to you about Marie. Haven’t you noticed that Marie has been acting strangely lately?”

“Yeah… it started after the goblin incident, right?”

“Yes… she’s concerned about what happened that day, but I think she’s pushing herself a little too hard. We’ve told her to take it easy, but she won’t listen. I thought that maybe if you talked to her, she’d be more likely to listen…”

My sister was quite stubborn. I suppose she inherited that trait from our father. Even when our parents advised her, she wouldn’t budge.

When she received advice from our father, he was strong, robust, and an adult. It probably made her even more inflexible, as she might think she needs to grow strong quickly.

But I’m her little brother, and we’re both children. So maybe she would listen to me.

However, it’s not so straightforward. I’ve tried talking to her to some extent. Not everyday conversation but rather about taking a break from sword training. But Marie just listens half-heartedly. She never really pays attention, and it often feels like it has the opposite effect.

For some reason, whenever I bring up the topic of swordsmanship, she seems to become upset. So I don’t bring it up much. But perhaps it’s time I get a bit more involved.

“Oh, um, don’t worry about it. What I said just now, you don’t need to take it to heart.”

She quickly corrected herself because she had been pressing the issue, making my mother feel guilty. I didn’t want her to feel like she had to be the one to deal with this.

“No worries. I want to talk about it. I’ve been thinking about it, and besides… it’s not good if things continue like this.”

People often say that working to the point of breaking down is a common phenomenon. There’s something inevitable about it that makes it hard to escape. It usually happens to those who are too dedicated to their work or efforts, for better or worse.

I wouldn’t say I’m particularly laid-back, but I tend to take things lightly and can eventually see things in a “well, that’s life” sort of way. But Marie is very earnest. I can understand how she feels.

If I were in her shoes, I’d probably feel the same way.

My response left my mother with a complex expression. It was quite an adult topic for a seven-year-old.

“Thank you. I sometimes wonder if it’s right to rely on you, Shion-kun.”

“You can rely on me more. I’m a kid, but there are things even kids can do.”

“Shion-kun…”

Mother seemed about to say something but then fell silent.

Perhaps I’m too good at understanding others.

Hmm, considering my actions so far, it might be too late.

Well, it’s fine. No need to put on an act.

I don’t need to be overly ingratiating.

After finishing my meal as usual, I dipped the dishes in water, and then I spoke a few words to my mother who was still sitting in her chair, and I went out to the courtyard.

“Huff! Huff! Huff!”

My sister swung her sword.

Vertical, diagonal, thrusts.

Stepping forward or staying in place, she continued her forms.

She was serious, not even aware of my presence.

She’s nine years old.

A child like her was swinging her sword with unyielding concentration.

It tugged at my heart and felt constricting.

My sister was too straightforward.

Even when people are worried about her, even when she’s aware of that, she can’t stop.

I walked closer to her, watching her training intently.

When I was studying magic, my sister watched over me in the same way.

Now it was my turn.

For about two hours, my sister continued her practice swings, and then she started running.

She ran at a fairly high speed until around noon, becoming sweaty and out of breath.

Finally, she stopped.

“Hah, hah, hah!”

Intense, one could say.

The atmosphere she radiated wasn’t that of a child.

It was the aura of someone pushing themselves to the limit.

Seeing her like this left me with mixed emotions.

Becoming strong requires rigorous training.

The harder the training, the faster you grow, and the higher you can reach.

But my sister, as she was now, looked painful.

I couldn’t stand watching it.

But I didn’t avert my eyes.

I’ll always be on my sister’s side, wanting to support her.

However, right now, I knew that supporting my sister wouldn’t help her.

If I truly cared about her, I thought I should stop her.

With that in mind, I approached.

“Sis-”

As I was about to speak, my sister turned around.

Her gaze locked onto me, sharp and piercing.

Her eyes were so clear that I found myself lost for words, just standing there.

“What?”

My sister didn’t bother hiding her irritation.

Normally, she’s much gentler.

But during sword training or when discussing it, she would become like this.

I had advised her once to take a break from training.

Ever since that day, there had been a subtle rift between my sister and me.

It wasn’t strained, and we could still talk and get along.

But it didn’t feel as close as it used to be.

There was some kind of tension, and it felt like we were keeping our distance.

I didn’t like that.

I loved my sister and wanted to be with her, to stand by her side.

And because my sister was precious to me, I wished she would take a break from sword training.

So… Why? Why did I say that she should stop training?

Why did I say that?

How could I, who was supposed to be on her side, say, “I’m sorry,” to her?

“Sis… Sorry.”

“So, what’s this apology for?”

I apologized immediately.

I bowed my head and asked for her forgiveness.

“What are you apologizing for?”

“I… I denied your thoughts. That’s why I’m sorry. I gave advice without considering your feelings, acting all high and mighty.”

I hadn’t been on my sister’s side for a long time.

She had always been on my side.

She had never stopped me from pursuing my obsession with magic, had helped me, and stood by me, and yet… I had criticized her actions and thoughts.

What right did I have?

Going too far is poison to the body.

I knew that.

Sometimes, it’s important for those around us to stop us.

But what I did wasn’t one of those things.

I’m not an adult. I’m not a parent.

I’m my sister’s little brother, her unwavering ally.

Even if my sister was wrong, I shouldn’t have given high-handed advice from a position of safety.

I should have walked alongside her.

In tough times, I should have experienced hardship with her.

In sad times, I should have been by her side.

When others denied her, I should have denied with her and acted alongside her.

My sister had done that for me.

She hadn’t denied my obsession with magic, which might not even exist. Instead, she had accepted it and acted while considering my feelings.

And I said those things to her.

I had negated all of her kindness with my words.

I had been so foolish without even realizing it.

I felt angry at my own foolishness.

It was inevitable that she would give up on me.

I thought that.

But…

“No, it’s not like that. I’m not bothered by that.”

In response to my sister’s words, I immediately lifted my head.

“But, my sister has always been on my side, and I…”

“I did think about it for a moment. But I also thought that what Shion is saying isn’t wrong, and that’s okay. It’s okay.”

It’s not okay. It’s not okay, but it seemed that my sister wasn’t concerned about that.

Well, she was concerned, but she seemed to have accepted it.

She had been concerned after all.

I needed to reflect on my actions.

“So, why then?”

I wasn’t sure what to say.

The words, “Are you angry?” didn’t seem appropriate.

My sister wasn’t always angry, and she wasn’t distancing herself from me.

It wasn’t about her attitude being different.

She was completely herself, just like before.

My confusion seemed to make her sigh.

“It’s not Shion’s fault. It’s just me… being selfish and… envious.”

“Envious?”

“I’m your older sister, so I’ve always felt like I should protect you. That’s why I’ve always been on your side and training with swords. I did have some confidence. I thought I could fight against monsters if anything happened. But I couldn’t. I was scared. My legs were shaking, and I couldn’t muster any strength. Because of that… Mother… I…”

My sister hugged herself.

It’s not unreasonable for it to become a trauma.

It’s not strange to be scared and not want to do anything.

I think my sister, who can behave normally in her daily life, is strong.

But even someone like her probably can’t forget that fear. Facing such a hideous presence, no one can stay composed.

“I thought I was going to die. But Mother saved me, and I lost track of everything. I was just screaming. If Shion hadn’t saved us, we would all have died. I was happy to be alive, but I couldn’t bring myself to be happy when I thought of Mother. Above all, I was furious with myself for not being able to do anything. And, being protected by Shion, who I thought was someone to protect… I couldn’t forgive that.”

“Have I… become unlikeable?”

My sister shook her head in a hurry and approached me.

“N-No, that’s absolutely not true! Shion is my brother! I’ve loved you, and I will continue to love you, always! I couldn’t forgive myself. I’m jealous of you, even though I love you, Shion. I’m jealous of you and want to become stronger. Then I can surely have more confidence and stand tall.”

Up close, her hands were stained red.

How long had she been gripping the sword?

It must be throbbing intensely, but she didn’t show it.

“That’s why you kept practicing, right?”

“Yes. But you see, I understand. Even if I keep doing it this way, I’ll damage my body, and I’ll worry everyone. However, I can’t sit still, and I keep thinking about that day. When I see your face, I just can’t help but feel jealous. I wanted to overcome those feelings.”

“My sister…”

Is this what it means to be a child?

No, even children think and live seriously just like adults.

I had forgotten that.

When I was a child, I didn’t live this seriously.

However, I still had my worries and experienced tough times.

Marie is only nine years old.

Yet, she accumulates various thoughts and desperately fights against reality.

Her bravery and innocence touched my heart.

So naturally, I found myself hugging my sister.

With overflowing emotions, I embraced her tightly, pulling her close.

“Sh-Shion…?”

“I’m sorry I didn’t notice. I knew you were struggling, but I didn’t understand your feelings. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry, sister. I’m supposed to be on your side, but I’m sorry for not being able to stay by your side.”

Even though my sister is still taller, the height difference has decreased compared to before. I buried my face in my sister’s chest and hugged her tightly. In response, my sister also put her arms around my back. It felt like she clung to me, and at the same time, I felt her emotions come through.

“…I’m sorry, Shion. I had a bad attitude. I’m so sorry…”

“It’s okay. If something happens, you can always confide in me. I’ll be here to support you.”

My sister said nothing and just held me. Age didn’t matter. Everyone is doing their best to live. That was one of the things I realized after being reincarnated. I couldn’t see my sister’s face, but the occasional sobbing indicated her emotions. We remained silent. My sister and I just held each other as if seeking warmth, as if clinging to each other, as if comforting each other, passing the time together.

○●○

Sis stopped doing unreasonable training. She started taking proper breaks and would finish her training before early evening. It’s quite a change since she used to practice from early morning until sundown, making it almost dinner time. Mom and Dad seemed relieved. The subtle distance that had developed between Sis and me disappeared, and our relationship returned to normal. Well, it might be different. Actually, it’s quite different.

“Here, Shion. Open wide!”

We’re at the dinner table, having dinner. Sis is sitting next to me with a spoon full of stew, offering it to me with a big smile.

Let’s see the reactions of Mom and Dad sitting across from us. Mom has a big smile on her face. But her hands have stopped moving, and she’s staring at us. As for Dad, he’s just sitting there with his mouth wide open, looking completely frozen.

It’s understandable, I guess. Despite our good relationship up until now, we’ve always maintained a certain distance. We were supposed to be just an ordinary sister and brother. However, due to some mix-up, the situation has turned into one where my sister feeds me, and I’m the brother who eats. For parents, that’s going to be quite a surprise. Actually, it is a surprise. My feelings about it are complicated. It’s hard to put into words, but it’s like, ‘Oh, come on! I don’t really understand!’

“Open wide, Shion!”

Sis, who had been smiling, slowly started to look like she might cry.

This is bad. This is very bad.

If I don’t eat, Sis will cry and get upset.

She can be quite childish and stubborn and selfish in these situations.

But doing ‘aaahn’ in front of our parents? Is this some sort of torture?

What is this? It’s too embarrassing, and I feel like I might die.

But I can’t just leave Sis hanging.

I hesitated, my face burning, but without looking at our parents, I took the spoon in my mouth.

I slurped the stew, trying to get it over with.

“Is it yummy? Hey, Shion, is it delicious?”

“Uh, yeah. It’s delicious.”

“Really? Hehe. You know, I helped with today’s cooking.”

“Yeah, I know.”

Sis is naturally quite skilled and can do various things. She sometimes helps with cooking, and she’s good at household chores.

Today, she was diligently cooking, so it makes sense that this is what all that effort was for. But why is it turning out like this? Is it because of what happened yesterday? But that was more of a brother-sister thing, right?

Before that, I confessed to Sis. Wait, but it’s not about that.

I’m getting my thoughts tangled up, and I’m not sure about my own feelings either. My head feels like it’s overheating. I decided to stop thinking.

“Here you go, Shion. Aaaahn.”

“Aaaahn!”

I tried to suppress my emotions and continued eating. Yeah, it’s delicious! Who cares! Let’s just consider Sis’s ‘aaahn’ as a reward!

We kept up our little lovey-dovey act without looking at our parents.

Don’t think about it. You’ll get angry if you do. So don’t think.

I consoled myself in that way and focused on eating. By the way, we kept this up for a week, and then we finally got a lecture from Dad telling us to stop it. I had mixed feelings of happiness and sadness.