Once Chloe parted with Hinata and Ruminas, she returned to Yuuki’s side.
Upon departure she took off her bracelet and handed it to Hinata.
「This is…?」
「A piece of my equipment. It was passed down to me when our souls were one… So it’s yours to begin with, is it not?」
The spirit equipment bracelet.
That bracelet which Rimuru made by copying the destroyed spirit equipment and gave to Hinata.
Because it was linked to Hinata’s soul, upon merging with Chloe it was also sent to the past.
And though even at the beginning it was called a legendary piece of equipment, it had further evolved by feeding off of Chloe’s power during her travels.
Now it was a Divine piece of equipment; Chloe’s personal piece.
Hinata considered accepting the bracelet.
Indeed, when they were one Hinata was able to use it. However, this piece of equipment has shared many years with its master Chloe.
Moreover, Hinata who has lost much of her original strength was simply no longer able to sustain the equipment’s summoning even for a moment.
Thus, with a sigh,
「It is yours, Chloe. I can no longer use it.
Besides, this was made by your teacher, Rimuru.
It fits you better」
Hinata said with a warm smile, and returned the bracelet.
Chloe took it in her hands and held it close to her heart.
「Huh… sensei made this? Is that so…
So sensei has been protecting me for so long…」
「When I meet Rimuru I’ll tell him that you’re doing fine and holding onto that bracelet.
So use it. Or is it called a Hero’s personal garb for naught?」
「Thanks… I’ll treasure it」
Chloe responded with a smile and nodded.
Hinata nodded in return.
The two souls who have fought together for so long would no journey separate.
Chloe bowed in gratitude, silently opened the door, and disappeared.
Without a word to the other children.
For Chloe the four kids are irreplaceable.
She truly wants to call out to them and throw her arms around them.
But now is not the time.
When the world’s destruction is avoided, then she could do it. Then she would finally be released.
So Chloe will no waver.
She will not meet with Rimuru and will not call out to the kids.
For she was yet cursed by Yuuki.
At the very least, until she was released from this curse she could not let her guard down.
Meeting old friends will certainly consume time. Though she is permitted some freedom of movement, she should not stay separate from Yuuki for long.
