Valda's POV
"You need to be very careful," Father said, his voice low and dangerous. "If Yin finds out what you've done, if he even suspects you're trying to harm Irene, he will kill you. Do you understand? He won't hesitate. He won't show you any mercy."
I waved my hand dismissively. "I heard you the first five times, Father."
"I'm serious, Valda. You saw how he reacted when he thought you pushed her down. Imagine what he'll do if he discovers you're actively poisoning him." He leaned forward. "That vial I gave you—it's potent. If Juniper added too much, if she made any mistakes—"
"She won't. I made the consequences very clear." I replied. "Day by day, she'll add two drops into his meal."
Father studied me for a long moment, then sighed. "You're playing a dangerous game."
"I learned from the best." I glanced around, making sure no servants lingered in the corridor outside his chambers. Then I lowered my voice. "Father, I need to ask you something."
