Chapter 377.2
With each word, she gleaned insights into the formidable personalities of the six kings. While Kasser lamented their unwavering adherence to their own opinions, Eugene couldn’t help but detect shades of contradiction in his narrative. You’re not exactly bending either, she mused silently.
Yet, she understood the toll such negotiations took on him. The mere act of corralling proud and haughty kings, each accustomed to unquestioned authority, and attempting to find common ground would undoubtedly drain one’s mental reserves, akin to enduring the labor pains of diplomacy in the dead of night.
Ah… it’s different, Eugene suddenly realized, the revelation hitting her with the force of a revelation. The future she had glimpsed was now painted with entirely new hues.
In that vision, it was King Richard who stood as the mediator among the kings, not Kasser. In that alternate reality, Kasser remained a solitary and unyielding figure, keeping his own counsel amidst his fellow expedition companions. But in this world, that lonely and mistrustful persona had no place. Touched by the realization, Eugene yearned to anchor herself in the authenticity of this moment, reaching out to touch Kasser’s face with her fingertips.
Kasser responded with a soft chuckle, his tone laced with affection. “Here I am, pouring out my grievances, and you’re just here, holding me. How dull.”
“Not at all,” Eugene countered gently. “I relish these moments when you share your thoughts and emotions. Please, continue to do so. Let me into your world.”
A smile graced Kasser’s lips as he clasped Eugene’s hand, bringing it tenderly to his lips. “The kings are eager to meet you before my departure tomorrow. They’re rather curious about your knack for making friends with larks. Fire King Riner, in particular, seems to be boasting loudly about it… I wonder why he finds such pride in your ability.”
Starting with a hint of pomposity, Kasser’s tone softened unexpectedly, a hint of vulnerability creeping in as he cleared his throat to steady his emotions.
“In any case, are you prepared for tomorrow? If the prospect weighs too heavily on you, I’ll handle it.”