The clear eyes, with varying shades of blue that distinguish the whites from the pupils, reflected the Hero's visage, reminiscent of a water mirror.
It looked down at the gemstone in its hand and then at the Hero. After hesitating for a moment, it reluctantly handed the gemstone back.
"Does Mom want this too?"
"...No, I was just reminded of something." The Hero was momentarily stunned, then gently extended a hand to envelop the Little Slime's palm, softly closing it around the gemstone.
"This has already been given to you, keep it well."
Seeing the Little Slime regain its smile, the Hero also showed a gentle smile.
'Though you're correct, I think this way of getting along isn't bad.'
In her heart, she responded to another version of herself.
To become different from her own mother, an 'ideal mother' who can truly bring happiness to a child.
Although the Hero had said this before, what must a so-called mother do to be considered ideal?
