Rhea frowned, sitting alone in a corner, bewildered by Fred's actions and the sudden notice.

Fred knew the decision was abrupt, but the queen's health was failing rapidly. He'd known she was frail from the start, hence his desperate search for a suitable vessel. Postponements had weakened her further, despite the medical team's best efforts. Her decline instilled a profound fear in him. Even in his prime, he knew his own mortality was inevitable.

"So what if I can't obtain supreme power? I'll still die and have nothing," he mused. This was unacceptable. His research into R20 continued relentlessly; nothing could deter him after R10's success. Immortality would render concerns about invisibility potions and controlling others irrelevant. Life's limitations held no sway if he could achieve eternity, providing endless time for his research.

Of course, Rhea remained unaware of his thoughts, and he wouldn't enlighten her. Lily's previous condition had stalled the experiment, and the doctors now declared the queen's time was short. Her pre-existing health issues were exacerbated by prolonged confinement and depression.

Reviewing the lab data, Fred was compelled to accelerate the experiment. He assembled the laboratory staff, creating a tense, highly focused atmosphere. The abrupt notice prevented leaks; absolute secrecy was paramount.

Returning to the first floor, he was approached. "Your Grace, these are the documents from the past few days. Could you sign them? There's a backlog," the man said. Fred impatiently waved him away. "I haven't the time. Leave them."

"But—"

"Suspend all official business and postpone all meetings for the next two days. I have urgent matters to attend to. No unauthorized movement beyond designated work areas. Is that clear?" Fred's tone was firm.

Startled by his demeanor, the man nodded repeatedly. "Yes, Your Grace."