The tension drained from Sephiran's small shoulders, replaced by relief and admiration.
"Haha, thank you, Mother! Sorry I wasn't brave enough to face a... a transparent monster like that."
Maddy stopped, her hand resting gently on his head. Her expression turned soft and serious.
"Don't apologize for that, Sweetie. You wouldn't be truly alive if you weren't afraid of something. Even the strongest beings in this world have their weaknesses, you know. Courage isn't having no fear—it's what you do when you are afraid."
Sephiran's smile widened, and he threw his small arms around her in a tight hug. Maddy hugged him back gently, her voice warm.
"You know what? You don't actually have to guard the entrance anymore," she said. "In this area, only worms live—and they can dig through any floor of our home if they want."
Sephiran scratched the back of his head, hesitating, and Maddy continued, her tone playful but thoughtful.
