Chapter 635

"What does that have to do with what you're doing now?" Arianna still didn't understand. "You're not planning to replicate the candle exactly, are you?"

Mockery laced her voice. Nathaniel's lack of fragrance-making skills, despite years in the industry, was well-known. He wouldn't need to deceive Lily if he possessed those capabilities.

"I couldn't do that," Nathaniel smiled, unfazed by her mockery. "That doesn't mean others can't. Don't underestimate these candles. A tiny addition…"

He gestured, indicating a minuscule amount. "This much is all it takes to silently kill someone."

A chill ran down Arianna's spine as she met his gaze, instinctively rubbing her arms.

"Okay, stop beating around the bush. You had someone copy Lily's candle and add something, right? How would you know if it's the same? Why would Henry even need this?"

Arianna grasped his strategy, curious about his confidence.

"Henry's so close to achieving his goals. He needed convincing evidence, and the candle was his best bet. Besides Lily, no one in the Lodge family knows anything about perfume making. This put Henry in a difficult position; he needed to subtly poison the candle."

"That's why he'll accept your help, and once he secures his position, he'll owe you a favor," Arianna nodded, finding his plan sound. Everything was under their control. This unforeseen shift within the Lodge family was an incredible opportunity.

Arianna had been seeking a powerful ally. Her offense against Alexander, because of Brittany, had left her vulnerable. She knew he was too preoccupied to deal with her now, but eventually, he would retaliate.

She needed to win, requiring a strong backing. "By the way, Henry could replace Justin, but don't forget he's lost his kickboxing skills. Securing his position, even if he succeeds in replacing Justin, will be tough without those skills."

Their alliance required a brilliant, capable member. Helping Henry only to see him fail would be a waste.

"We don't need to worry about that. I'm sure Henry has plans to secure his position."

Seeing Arianna's doubt, Nathaniel added, "I heard he had adventures abroad. Most of those who returned with him are skilled in combat, likely well-versed in kickboxing. I just don't know which family they're from. He's made ample preparations, daring to return for the crown."

He paused. "The Lodge family practices kickboxing, but I haven't seen any prodigies. Their skill level seems to be declining. It might suffice against ordinary people, but it's nothing compared to other kickboxing families, wouldn't you agree?"

Lily's kickboxing had initially shocked Nathaniel, deterring him. However, his experiences with Arianna's dark forces had altered his perspective. His initial shock stemmed from underestimating her.