Lily glanced sideways, then chuckled indifferently. "Don't mind what I said," she said. "It's easy to talk about others, but doing it ourselves..."

She looked at Fred. "Besides, as you said, it only works with the same blood type. Yours might differ. Perhaps I am your best choice."

"Yes, you're right!" Fred exclaimed, seemingly remembering. "My blood type isn't compatible with Her Majesty's. Otherwise, I would have made the sacrifice without hesitation. Don't sow discord between me and Her Majesty. My loyalty is unquestionable!"

"Indeed, you're loyal," Lily remarked casually, watching the queen's expression. The queen's frown deepened, her expression grave.

"I've done everything to prolong Her Majesty's life," Fred declared proudly, chin raised. "No matter the sacrifices, it's worthwhile for Her Majesty and the people."

"Fred," the queen called.

"Your Majesty," he bowed respectfully.

"I'm tired."

"We'll take you to rest immediately," Fred said, glancing at the wheelchair attendant and giving a signal. The wheelchair turned and moved behind a screen.

Lily heard the grinding wheels and watched the queen. "Your Majesty!"

The wheelchair paused only after the queen placed her hand on the armrest. Lily ignored Fred's glare. "Have you considered what happens if the plan fails?"

"It won't fail!" Fred interrupted.

Lily continued, "Every coin has two sides. What happens to you and your people if it fails? How will they view their queen and the royal family if they discover this? The queen's primary concerns must be her throne and reputation. She's imagined a perfect execution, but what if it fails? Perhaps she hasn't even considered failure. Perhaps those around her have painted a rosy picture, preventing her from considering the consequences."

Alexander received a call from Dr. Blanc as he was leaving. He answered, glancing at the number. "Yes, Dr. Blanc?"

"We examined the body. There's a virus, but..." Dr. Blanc paused. "It's not very active. Perhaps because the man had been dead some time. The harm is negligible."

"Really? That's great!" Alexander exclaimed.

"Also, your friend… he's not infected, so we've released him," Dr. Blanc chuckled. "He might be looking for you now."

"He's looking for me?" The car screeched to a halt. Despite his seatbelt, Alexander lurched forward.

Edward looked over his shoulder. "It's Mr. Corden, sir."