21 My Mother, Artoria

When Artorius ascended the steps of the castle once again, the first person to greet him was his nominal 'mother', Guinevere, a girl who appeared delicate on the outside but possessed a strong will on the inside.

Over the course of ten or so years spent with her, Artorius transitioned from initial resentment due to his knowledge of her 'history' to developing a profound respect for her.

After all, not everyone could embrace the role of a mother and raise her husband's non-biological son as if he were her own.

Of course, if one were to consider the true gender of King Arthur, then...

Well, things become a bit complicated. Artorius decided to set such matters aside.

Nevertheless, Artorius had no concerns or doubts before him.

"The King is waiting for you, Artorius," Guinevere spoke, her gaze upon him resembling that of a mother watching over her child.

As the Savior of Britain, Artoria was often engaged in battles abroad, and Agravain, acting as Artorius's teacher, usually only focused on his education and abilities.

Thus, in the absence of Artoria, the woman before him became the one who cared about his daily life.

She was an exceptionally gentle and loving big sister.

"Thank you, Mother." Artorius nodded to her and prepared to move forward.

"Artorius..." Guinevere called out to him before he could proceed. "You... be good to your father..."

"Of course." Artorius smiled and nodded, "I am the most filial son after all."

"..." Guinevere couldn't help but find Artorius's words strange.

Although, strictly speaking, there was nothing wrong with his statement.

===

Shortly after, Artorius faced Merlin.

"Well, well, young prince, have you discovered your own destiny~?" Merlin's demeanor remained as frivolous as ever. Artorius initially thought about giving him the middle finger and leaving. But after a brief moment of consideration, he decided to say a few more words.

"What have you seen this time?" Artorius paused and asked.

"Nothing at all, just chaos as always~" Merlin replied.

"Oh." Artorius's tone remained calm, neither pleased nor saddened.

"Ahahaha~ that's why humans are truly fascinating~" Merlin said with a joyful smile as he watched Artorius depart.

Meanwhile...

Artorius had a subtle illusion.

When it comes to towers, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Well, at this moment, Artorius thought of fairy tales.

In fairy tales, princesses always reside at the very top of towers, patiently awaiting the rescue of their princes. And there would always be an evil dragon guarding the princess, opposing the prince.

'Unfortunately for Mother, she is both the dragon and the princess. Fortunately for me, I am both the dragon and the prince.'

'So this time...'

'I will be the one to love you, protect you, and save you.'

'Artoria.'

'My... Mother.'

Artorius thought with determination before pushing open the grand doors. The majestic and flawless king turned around, fixing her gaze upon Artorius.

"Artorius."

Her eyes carried a calmness tinged with a hint of sorrow.

"Father."

Artorius bowed to her and then stepped forward.

Behind him, the magnificent white gate closed, separating the inside from the outside.

Only King Arthur—Artoria, and her son, Artorius, remained here. As always, when facing him, she appeared unsure of herself.

In contrast, Artorius maintained his gentle smile, moving forward and reaching out to hold his mother's hand.

"I'm about to embark on a journey to Europe, to seek my own glory. Father, you will bless me, won't you?"

"I..."

"The Saxons have settled down, and the grain from Gaul will continue to flow into Britain. I have taken away those resentful nobles and ambitious individuals. The nation will become more stable. In this way, Britain will become better, won't it?"

"My son..."

"Ahh, of course, I also have my own selfish desires." Artorius said kindly, "I, also want to become someone great. I want you to be proud of me, Father."

"..."

As Artoria remained silent, Artorius's actions became bolder. He reached out his hand and, like an ordinary child, hugged his 'father's' waist.

The cold and sturdy armor prevented the sense of touch, but a warm and peculiar sensation gave Artoria a subtle illusion.

"From today on, you don't have to bear those burdens alone." Artorius smiled, "I will share the weight of the nation with you, even if it's just a small part..."

"..."

"I have always wanted to hand over this magnificent and perfect nation to you, Artorius." After a brief silence, Artoria spoke with a somewhat hoarse voice, "I have always wanted..."

"I know... I know... but Father, don't underestimate your son. I can do better." After saying that, Artorius lifted Artoria's face and kissed her forehead. "Please bless me, Father. Bless your son. To bring you victory and glory."

===

Afterward, Artorius turned away from Artoria, leaving the City of Camelot, leaving Britain, and heading to the war-torn lands of Europe.

As his army gathered, the decisive battle between the Romans and the Visigoths was about to begin.

The Visigoths, a branch of the Germanic peoples, descendants of Alaric who once sacked Rome, were now the strongest in Gaul. They aimed to completely expel Roman influence from Gaul.

In contrast, the Roman Emperor sought revenge for Rome's destruction.

This battle would determine the final fate of Gaul and the destiny of the two nations.

Artorius would lead the knights of Britain to participate in this battle, making a name for himself on the battlefield of Europe.