“Mother, “she calls out to her but failed to receive a response.

Towards the left side where her bed stood a dim light was visible illuminating the thin hall leading towards her bath. Following down the path it didn’t take long for her to notice small yet visible drops of blood splattered on the floor. Seeing the drops of blood grow in size as she drew nearer the eerie feeling she once had now turned into fear.

“Mother!? Give answer!” When she still didn’t receive a response she was set to yell out her name again but before she could she saw her mother sitting on the edge of her bath with only her feet in the water. As she walked closer to her it was as if her mother was in another world, she didn’t acknowledge her presence continuing to stare at the blank wall ahead of her. As Daiya sat beside her a look of shock appeared on her face never had she seen her mother in such disarray. She wore no make-up, was poorly dressed, and carried a defeated demeanor. She could see no visible scars or wounds and wondered where the drops of blood came from.

“Mother, “she says in a concerned tone, “This, what is the cause of this!?” To see her mother in such a fragile position all questions she sought answers too were lost. Reaching for her glass of wine Queen Maia takes a sip before speaking.

“How is she?”

“She has yet to awaken but her strength continues to grow, “she says pausing before continuing to speak, “Mother what is the meaning of this!?”

“Mother—a title easily granted that many fail to earn. Relationship with own mother—–I was placed at her heel as daily reminder I was never wanted. It struck a deep blow to the mind and heart nothing I did was worthy of praise or attention. I lived in her shadow hoping for a glimpse of light that she loved me as I did her.” Filling her glass with wine she brought it to her mouth to drink. Daiya, sat listening with an open ear as it was the first time her mother had spoken openly about her childhood.

“She was cold, unruly, controlling all aspects of life although I loved her dearly I despised her just the same. As I grew in age, I feared its approach as I did not want to become the woman who gave me life. It was then I gave word to the Gods to never bore children. I failed to honor my word which revealed itself in greater form as two daughters swelled inside me. Absent direction, as mother I did not know how to love, similar to my mothers response to me.” Reaching for her now half empty jug she fills her glass again. Staring at the wine as it floated idly in her glass she takes another sip.