Seeing this, Rhea added, "Fred has more questions for you, and I think you understand he's acting out of goodwill. Please answer them, all right?" She flicked the wine bottle. Ross frowned hesitantly, then nodded. "Okay."
Rhea gave Fred a look, then moved behind him. Leaning in, Fred looked toward Ross and cleared his throat. "Your Highness, have you had any luck tracking down the queen?"
Ross shook his head. "No. But I think it's because I haven't gone far enough. You mentioned my mother went to places like West Virho? It will take me several more days to reach there."
Fred nodded, thinking this made sense. "Her Majesty did mention that, but I'm not entirely sure. Regardless, it's not ideal that you and Her Majesty are both away, Your Highness. Someone needs to take charge."
"You're here, aren't you?" Ross looked puzzled.
As this was the answer he desired, Fred grinned. "Well, I'm only the chief minister. As you know, many in the country oppose me. They believe I've influenced Her Majesty, and that I'm untrustworthy."
"That's easily resolved. I'll call and instruct them to give you their full cooperation while I'm away," Ross replied readily.
Fred was thrilled. "I'm afraid those people might claim I've influenced you as well."
"They can say what they like, but they still have to listen to me, don't they?" Ross gave an impatient look and smacked his neck. "There are mosquitoes everywhere! I have to go. I'll leave the country in your care, Fred. I'll inform you immediately if I find anything about my mother's whereabouts."
"Certainly." Satisfied, Fred hung up.
Seeing him in a good mood, Rhea was relieved Ross hadn't revealed anything he shouldn't have. She'd been anxious earlier, unsure if she could successfully hypnotize Ross over the video call. Fred turned to Rhea. "You've done well, Rhea. You deserve a reward. What would you like?"
"I want..." Rhea met Fred's inquiring gaze and smiled. "I want to continue my research at the lab and serve you. That's my reward."
Pleased with her answer, Fred nodded. "You're not greedy, huh? Regardless, you deserve to be rewarded for your dedicated service. From today onward, you're free to go anywhere you please," he waved, adding, "Including the lab, of course."