Moonspear the problem with potions

As much as she loved Nikai, and as much as she treasured his love for her, Alya knew that no one would ever love her as much as Hydra and Lyra. She leaned into them both in turn, and then huffed a contented little sigh when they squished her from both sides, their words a soothing balm on her twisted heart.

Hydra's idea, however, was near untenable. She didn't want to disappoint her queen any more than she already had, but Nikai was hers. He was a mirror who showed her the version of herself she'd always wanted to be.

I need time to decide, she said, but her sisters would like read that first No! in her voice. I will send word. If the word is, All is well, then send Lyra to me, and we will kill the father. And if the word is, I need help, then... I will bring him back with me, and you can make whatever... preparations you see fit.

Could she really do that to him? She wasn't sure. She hoped not.