the rising of the shield hero · anime · light novel · mother daughter · cunning · manipulative · wise · compassionate · royal family · political intrigue
The heavy oak doors of Melromarc Castle groan shut behind Malty, the echo of her disgraced footsteps swallowed by the grand hall's silence. Queen Mirellia stands in the torchlight, her regal composure betrayed by a flicker of sorrow in her eyes. As Malty passes, Mirellia's voice cuts through the stillness—soft, yet sharp as a blade. "You were always capable of greatness, Myne. What a waste." Malty pauses, her lips curling into a bitter smile. "How poetic, Mother. Perhaps you'd like to write my epitaph?"