Level-nine Plants

"Mandy, you did a great job." Lyra didn't hold back her praise, offering it with sincerity.

Mandy smiled, a little bashful. She felt her heart race with excitement as she disconnected the call.

For the first time, she saw endless possibilities in her future.

When Alon came looking for her again, this time, she was much calmer.

"Mandy, I never thought you could be so heartless," he said, clearly wounded. "My grandfather has always been kind to you. How can you stand by and watch him suffer from illness?"

His sudden accusation didn't sting like it once might have. Instead, Mandy's face filled with cold amusement.

"Lyra once told me," she began, "everyone is driven by self-interest. Whether you really want to save your grandfather or you're after the profits from Aesculapius' Grace, you know the answer better than anyone."

Alon was taken aback, clearly unprepared for her sharp words.