The sky was still pitch black when the needle pierced Eliana’s skin. Shopia Joy injected the clear liquid into the girl's arm with steady hands and a calm expression. Her heartbeat barely registered—she was used to doing things like this.

Eliana stirred weakly in her sleep. No screams. No resistance. Just a soft sigh and unconscious breathing.

“Sleep, darling... tomorrow, you’ll become the best version of yourself. A more... obedient version.”

She pulled the blanket up to cover Eliana’s shoulders, then stood and walked out of the room. Outside, her smile bloomed in full triumph.

“Finally… no one will get in the way of my plan.”

---

The next morning,...