Fred left his underground laboratory and went upstairs to the queen's bedroom. Pushing a food cart inside, he smiled. "Your Majesty, it's time for dinner."

"Time for dinner, or time for me to die?" The queen scoffed, swiveling her wheelchair.

"How could you say that? You're going to live a long time," Fred replied, smiling and uncovering the cloche. "These are all your favorite dishes."

The queen glanced at the food dismissively. "Fred, be honest. What on earth are you up to?"

"Your Majesty, I've told you, but you didn't believe me. I'm trying to help you lead Yudonia forever as our greatest queen," he said. "Don't let Lily fool you. She only wants to save herself."

"What if the experiment fails?" the queen asked. "You can't guarantee its success, can you?"

"I'm sure it will succeed," Fred assured her. "We've done many similar experiments. I would never put your life at risk."

The queen gazed at him silently, then turned her wheelchair and began to eat. Fred's smile deepened. He crouched slowly, speaking gently. "Your Majesty, you shouldn't question my loyalty. I've only taken extreme measures because of the circumstances. I—"

A sudden knock interrupted him. Fred looked upset. "Don't disturb us!"

"Your Grace!" a weak but insistent voice replied. "The prince is here."

The queen stopped eating, becoming still. Fred was surprised. "I'm coming!" He glanced at the queen, murmuring, "Enjoy your meal. I'll be right back."

He quickly left, closing the door before frowning at the man outside. "What did you say?"

"The prince is here. He's downstairs reviewing documents. He'll be coming up shortly," the man said nervously.

"Which one?" Fred asked.

"Prince Ross..."

"What the hell is he doing here?" Fred frowned. "According to the itinerary, he shouldn't be here. Tell him I'm busy with an urgent matter and will meet him shortly."

He returned to the room. The queen was still eating, feigning ignorance of the events outside.

Fred stared at her back. "Your Majesty, you must have heard him, right? Your eldest son, Prince Ross, is here. What do you think? Is he here to see you, or is he up to something?"

"He doesn't know I'm here," the queen said, continuing to eat.

"No, he does," Fred said steadily, showing no panic. "You've been away from the palace for a long time and haven't checked your phone recently. How could he not know you're here after hearing nothing from you?"