The silence dragged between us, and I could feel a murderous intent, but it wasn't directed at me.
"Sloane has gone too far. She might have been under my protection, but I won't condone her attempt to harm the royal body and destroy our future. Her actions are unacceptable," the Dowager said.
"Is that your way of saying you had no hand in poisoning me?" I tested the waters. "It's safe thinking on my part that I assume you and Sloane tried to end me. Targeting a woman's womb is beyond wicked, don't you agree, Mother?"
She smirked. "How malicious of you to think I'd subject myself to such a method. Damon has stepped down as crown prince, which means there is no heir. Why'd I try to kill you and ruin everything? You're the goddess chosen, which means it's you or no one else. Whether I want it or not, you're my hope to save the Balthar lineage."
I see.
