Extra-Changing Fate

Chapter 46 ==Oleander Poison==

"Grandfather, do you... perhaps know who the mastermind behind the kidnapping is?"

I asked cautiously, watching him as we sat in his private garden pavilion, sipping tea like we always did on quiet afternoons.

He didn't answer right away. Instead, he glanced at me with slight suspicion. "May I ask why?" he said, voice calm but probing. "It's unusual for you to ask anything concerning your sister. You've never once mentioned her during your stay here."

I let out a small smile and took a slow sip of my tea, hiding the storm brewing inside me. "Well, I figured I should be careful too. Who knows who might be the next target?"

He studied me, then leaned back in his chair. "Haven't you even considered the possibility that she planned it herself?"

"I have," I admitted, setting down my teacup. "But the more I think about it, the less sense it makes. My sister is smart, yes—but her plans always have holes. If she orchestrated this herself, don't you think the entire Silverton Duchy would've already fallen into chaos?"

Grandfather chuckled softly, a rare smile tugging at his lips. "That's true. Her schemes are always flawed in some way. If she was behind it, your parents would have noticed immediately."

I nodded. "Exactly."

He gave a thoughtful nod. "Well, my people have been watching certain individuals. Whoever the mastermind is, they're dangerous. Not someone to underestimate. Be careful, Alyssa."

"I understand," I said softly, heart heavy.

"Now enough of that," he said, trying to lift the mood. "Let's eat some cake. Libra! Bring us the cheesecake, please."

Libra stepped into the room, elegant as ever, and placed a tray of delicate slices on the table. "I hope you both enjoy it, Master."

"Thank you, Libra," I replied, offering her a small smile.

I took a bite. Sweet, soft, creamy—yet it did nothing to soothe the unease growing in my chest.

Even Grandfather is tracking this mastermind...

Could Kahli's subordinates be involved?

He's the only magical being we haven't yet found—the one we have to defeat.

Tsk... I'm tired. So tired of all this.

Sick of the lies. Sick of being hunted. Sick of being wanted.

"Alyssa."

I blinked, jolting back to reality at the sound of Grandfather's voice.

"Yes, Grandfather?"

He looked at me with a curious expression. "About the King's affections toward you... What do you plan to do?"

I gave him a wry smile. "If you're worried I'll accept his proposal, don't. Anyone with eyes can see I'd never agree to marry him."

It was clear to both of us—Queen Lilith had pushed him into courting me, not out of love, but for power.

"Good," he said firmly. "You should stay far from the Northern Royal Family. Especially the Dowager Queen. Her reputation precedes her."

I sighed. "I don't think the King has any true feelings for me. He's only acting under Queen Lilith's command. I think she's trying to gain access to my eyes. She knows something."

Grandfather's gaze turned serious. "Since we are among the few who still remember the legend, it's no wonder she sees you as a threat. And you should know—Emperor Juvanes also desires your eyes. Aries told me."