"Dimitri will have no choice but to name my son as Crown Prince. And he won't reign for long. Once my child comes of age, I'll make him step down. That's where I'll need your help, Father."
The Gamma Lord's lips curved into a proud, knowing smile as he studied his daughter with narrowed eyes. He clasped his hands behind his back and took a slow step forward.
"You've changed," he said at last, his tone laced with both admiration and caution. "You're no longer the naïve girl I raised. You've become... clever. Dangerous, even."
He folded his arms across his chest, his voice turning businesslike.
"So tell me, what do you need from me?"
A calculating gleam sparked in Melissa's eyes. She slowly straightened, sitting upright with deliberate grace.
"You'll know when the time is right," she said smoothly. "For now, support the Beta Lord. Make sure he ascends as Emperor. I need the transition to appear clean...for appearances' sake, of course."
Her smile widened.
