The Saintess in the Birdcage Knew Love, and Then She Fell Into Madness - Chapter 14: Mother

Chapter 14: Mother

“…there’s really nothing special.”

Having thought to research the magic shield again, I holed up in the library, but couldn’t grasp any significant information.

It was just like last time; I certainly wasn’t expecting much. That magic shield has become a common symbol for the kingdom; nobody imagines it could ever be lost.

“…”

The kingdom is protected because of that shield… that much is certain. 

The royal family and the knights might consider the possibility of its loss, but deep down, they must be confident that it will never disappear.

“If it were to vanish, chaos would be inevitable… And if they found out I was the cause, it won’t just end with a death sentence.”

Execution seemed a mild consequence, yet I couldn’t even bear to think about the cruel ways I could be put to death. But that’s assuming my theories are correct and the disappearance of the magic shield would follow…

“Look for help… No, what am I thinking, idiot?”

It was futile to even consider finding someone for help. 

After all, Aria-san had gone unnoticed by everyone up to this point. And if the magic shield were to disappear, who would come to our aid? In fact, if everything became public, I might be the one eliminated, leaving Aria-san truly alone.

“I’m really stumped….”

I murmured, closing the book I had been reading. 

Today, once again, I was going to meet Aria-san… Seeing her smile and hearing her say she was happy to see me made me want to respond to those feelings, no matter what.

“Was I always such a kind person?”

I asked myself, chuckling ruefully at the thought of calling myself kind.

After returning the book to its place, I left the library and headed towards the castle. It was during this journey that I noticed something.

“…Ah.”

I saw a woman walking with a sword at her waist.

It was rare to see her by herself, though she would probably join someone soon for another adventure.

Or maybe she’s achieved some new feat as an adventurer.

“It’s better not to make eye contact.”

Even though I say that, she has already seen me.

Well, it didn’t matter. I could just keep walking, pretending not to notice her, and she, who always seemed indifferent to me, would surely not say anything. That’s what I believed, until…

“Aren’t you going to greet your own mother? Such a cold son.”

“Ha, as if you’re one to talk.”

Mother? My mother?

Is a mother someone who would ignore her own son? Unlike my brothers, I’ve had no luck… But does a mother have any reason to be indifferent, even a little?

I looked at her sternly. 

This woman was Seirai Bless—my mother.

“Why did you decide to talk to me today of all days? I have a lot on my mind… You could have just ignored me like you always do.”

Please forgive me for speaking harshly to my own mother. I had already started walking away, pretending not to care, but when she spoke to me like that, I couldn’t help but feel…

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen you. You’re still the son I bore and raised.”

“…”

She said, her long blonde hair swaying.

It’s sad to admit, but I really don’t resemble either my mother or father with my ordinary looks and abilities. I’ve even wondered if I was actually born to someone else, but of course, that’s not the case.

“You’re a soldier now, aren’t you? Are you doing well at it?”

“Pretty well, I guess.”

“I see.”

See, that’s how our conversation ends. My mother just stares at me, not continuing the conversation, making it incredibly awkward.

“…”

“…”

After a moment of uncomfortable silence, I decided to ask her something.

“Mother?”

“What?”

“That magic shield… is it really an absolute existence?”

“Of course. It’s a symbol of the kingdom… its disappearance is unthinkable.”

“…”

So, she shares the same view. 

My parents, with their exceptional talents, both received titles and are still actively contributing. It’s not that I’m disappointed, but I wonder if she ever thinks that it’s a woman’s hand that keeps that shield intact.

“You used to ask about it when you were younger. Why does that magic shield exist, and why doesn’t it disappear? Why are you so curious? Preparations are made in case something happens, but you seem to be one of the few who is really concerned about it.”

Yes, that seems to be the general perception among the people of this country. 

I’ve always been curious about that magic shield, even before meeting Aria-san, but it’s sad that I don’t understand what’s so special about me.

“Mother… I believe that people’s efforts should be recognized.”

“That’s true. It’s the opposite of those who neither try nor do anything being unnoticed.”

“Right… Even if recognition is unlikely, I want to appreciate their efforts. Many are unaware and unobservant… It’s not anyone’s fault, just a matter of luck and awareness.”

“What are you talking about?”

Standing face to face with my mother, who was tilting her head in confusion, I continued.

“I’m happy with who I am now. If I had walked a more glamorous path, I don’t think I would have met her.”

“…”

“Mother, I may indeed be weak and incompetent… but I’ve long stopped being ashamed of that. I’m completely satisfied with my life now.”

Having said that, I walked away from my mother and headed towards the castle.

As I walked away, I felt her gaze on my back. Was it my mother watching me all this time?

“Well then, I should hurry up.”