"Though diviners always say that destiny cannot be changed, they also believe that no one can be certain the destiny they glimpsed and interpreted is the true one. The Speaker has listed here the matters that might affect Laplace Klein Howard's plans, so that we can resolve them."
Miss Galina handed the "Task List" to Shade, and Megan added:
"These matters may have nothing to do with our families. Their effects may not become apparent for decades, and the Speaker may have judged wrongly as well. But enough small changes combined can shake even the most meticulous plan. Before Benanice, Aurora, and Grandma Cassandra arrive, we will arrange for our Followers to deal with these matters. You can handle them too if you have the time."
"I do not have many Followers around me, and I have plenty of free time anyway, so I will handle these matters personally."
Miss Sylvia said this, then smiled and pointed out:
"This time, the Speaker has set rewards for every matter, and they are quite generous. After all these years, the Council has accumulated a considerable fortune, along with Relics and rare materials. Shade, you should give it a try."
That was indeed a good suggestion, so Shade memorized the Witches' Task List. Before Doctor Schneider arrived, he could try resolving these matters first while waiting for the other keys to appear one after another.
He had already made his plans. Returning to the island was not something he would do anytime soon. Step by step, he would cut away Laplace Klein Howard's allies and power outside the island. The successive arrivals of Doctor Schneider and Priest Augustus would surely force that diviner to reveal more of his strength. Once they had determined all of the man's trump cards and identified the next-ranked