Chapter 343.1
“Abu must have given me vitality back then,” Eugene mused, reminiscing about the time when Abu had displayed such excitement before reaching the Anoti Mountains. This memory prompted Eugene to inquire about something that had perplexed her at the time.
“Hwansu is like a seed, isn’t it? Is the vitality Anika provides different from that?” she asked.
“Completely different,” came the reply.
Eugene probed further, “What’s the difference?”
Mara’s chatty demeanor vanished momentarily. After studying Eugene for a brief moment, he spoke decisively, “I believe I’ve shared sufficient information up to this point. I didn’t arrange this meeting to be a storyteller.”
Eugene nodded in understanding, acknowledging that Mara had indeed provided invaluable insights, assuming they were all accurate. It was akin to receiving a generous down payment.
“I don’t believe we need to reintroduce ourselves at this point. Let’s be straightforward about our desires,” Eugene proposed, pausing to glance at Kasser, seated beside her. Prior to the meeting, Kasser had delegated full authority to Eugene. Whether Eugene negotiated with Mara or not, he would not intervene.
“Sang-je and Mara both desire your support. As the linchpin of these events, your opinion holds the utmost significance,” he had declared.
At that moment, she had simply appreciated his trust. Yet, now that she found herself seated at the negotiation table, a sudden wave of anxiety washed over her. She yearned for the sole responsibility of decision-making. If she made a choice, it might ensnare him, and worse still, it could bring unforeseen consequences to the kingdom.