Chapter 327: Radiant Soul

Although 4-5 years was actually small compared to Ethea’s less-than-a-year deadline, it was still a relief. It meant they had more time to prepare, to find a proper cure, and to make sure everything was ready before they acted. They wouldn’t have to rush and risk making mistakes.

’...But we still need to move quickly.’

Four years could pass faster than expected. And if something went wrong, if the artifact was damaged or taken from her, her condition would worsen again. There were also the manipulative Valmeres. So, they couldn’t afford to be complacent.

He swiftly moved to the mental state line.

’Hmm... Cheerful, I understand. But why uneasy and doubtful?’

It didn’t make sense at first, since she had been smiling the whole time.

’...Uneasy, too, can be somehow explained by what I heard. But doubtful...’

What was she doubting? Herself or... did she sense something?

If Nura was really starting to suspect them, even a little, that was good. It meant she wasn’t completely blind to the truth. But it also meant she was confused and uncertain, which made her vulnerable. If they noticed her doubt, they would double their efforts to keep her under control.

’I need to reach her soon.’

With that in mind, he scrolled down to read the details of her ability, hoping to learn more about the Blazing Sun Constitution. But the moment he tried to access it, the information came back blank.

’...Of course.’ He sighed in disappointment and moved on to the affinities. ’Oh!’

He expected her fire affinity to be high, but seeing an S-Rank Light affinity really caught him off guard. Because Awakened individuals with light affinities were exceptionally rare, occurring perhaps once in a thousand or even less. They were also usually stronger than most, simply because light was so versatile. It could be used for healing, defense, offense, and even support. Many believed light was the most balanced element, able to adapt to any situation.

’If she has both fire and light, then her potential is even greater than I thought.’

Two made a truly powerful combination.

’...This must be another reason why they hid her so desperately.’

He shook his head and scrolled to the next section.

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[Radiant Soul]

[Description: The soul radiates a gentle warmth that naturally draws others toward them. Those in their presence feel at ease, comforted, and uplifted. Prolonged exposure can create a sense of attachment and trust in those around the user.]

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’!’ Soren’s eyes lit up. ’This... explains a lot.’

It matched what Zura had said about Nura making friends easily despite her amnesia and awkwardness. It also explained why Zura herself had taken such a quick liking to her, and his parents didn’t notice anything off about her. It was all because of this trait.

Of course, she herself had always been a warm and friendly child. Even without the trait, she had a way of making people feel comfortable around her. Coupled with her cute appearance and charming smile, it was no wonder people were drawn to her. But this trait amplified it all. It made her presence almost magnetic, pulling people in whether they realized it or not.

But...

That was exactly what worried him.

On the surface, it seemed like a wonderful trait. People would naturally want to be around her, help her, and so on. But the more he thought about it, the more uneasy he felt. A trait like this could be a double-edged sword. If the wrong people got close to her, they could become obsessed, possessive, or manipulative. They might even end up harming her just to keep her close.

’...No.’ Soren thought as he considered it more carefully. ’The effect shouldn’t be that powerful.’

He guessed that those with high willpower or strong mental defenses would be unaffected, or wouldn’t even notice. It was a subtle influence, not mind control after all. So, most trained Awakened would simply go about their day without realizing anything was different. It would probably only be dangerous to ordinary people or those already prone to obsession.

’...And fortunately, it’s Nura who has this trait.’

Because even if she knew she had this trait, she wouldn’t use it to manipulate or take advantage of others. That was just who she was.

’...Still, I’ll keep an eye on it.’

He quickly read the last two lines, then closed the window.

’...Did you put a mark on them?’

He asked as he slowly stood up from the chair near the entrance.

’Yes.’ Malakor replied.

’Good.’ Soren smiled and made his way back to their room. ’Tell me if they leave the city.’

’Understood.’ Malakor replied.

’...I hope they leave.’ Soren thought to himself. ’That will make things a lot easier.’

He arrived at their room, took a deep breath, and pushed the door open.

Ethea and Zura turned toward him immediately, curiosity clear on their faces.

"Sorry," Soren apologized and took his seat. However, a certain someone kept staring so intensely at him that he couldn’t help but ’notice’.

"I saw them." He revealed honestly. "My parents and Nura."

Ethea and Zura’s eyes widened at his words.

"They must have come for dinner too." Soren continued. "And I overheard that my parents are leaving tomorrow."

"That... That is a good thing, right?" Zura said after a moment. "You must have gotten to see your little sister and learned such crucial information."

Soren nodded at her, squeezing Ethea’s hand to ease her. "That’s right. And just like you said, she looked healthy and happy. However... I still have to meet her in person."

"Don’t worry about that. Since your parents are leaving, it won’t be that difficult now." Zura reassured him. "So, let’s continue to eat and not let the food go cold."

Soren nodded and picked up his spoon.

The rest of the dinner passed in the blink of an eye. Zura paid the bill as promised, and they left the Golden Deer. Then, they exchanged addresses and contact information.

"Take care, you two." Zura smiled, waving cheerfully. "I’ll contact you tomorrow."

"Mmm. See you tomorrow." Ethea nodded subtly.

"Thank you, Lady Zura. Have a good night." Soren waved back with a faint smile.

"Yeah, good night to you too!"

Soren and Ethea watched Zura go, then turned and made their way back to the hotel.