The queen's following words dampened Fred's excitement. "Since you've done so much for me, you must be willing to do one more thing, right?"

Fred's gut churned. "What... is it?"

"Why don't you help me find out whether R10 works?" she asked casually, a smirk playing on her lips.

Fred grew alarmed. "Your Majesty... I..."

Stunned, Lily looked at the queen.

"You're not up for it?" the queen asked. "Aren't you devoted to me? Why are you scared?"

"No!" Fred gritted his teeth. "It's not that I'm scared, but the experiment has strict requirements, which I'm sure you're aware of. I went to great lengths to find the most suitable vessel for you. I even allowed you both a long recuperation period to ensure high compatibility. Therefore, even with a suitable vessel, it will take time before we can proceed."

After a pause, he added, "I swear I'll undergo the experiment for your sake if there's a suitable vessel and all conditions are met."

The queen observed him quietly.

Fred studied her expression and said carefully, "But you must wait for me to prepare for the experiment, okay?" He was willing, but she couldn't wait that long.

Surprisingly, the queen smiled. "Don't worry. I can wait. Indeed, the experiment has strict requirements and many preparatory steps. That's why I completed them for you long ago."

Her smile turned grim. "Rest assured that you and your vessel are highly compatible, even more so than Lily and I. Are you happy with that, Fred?"

Fred's eyes widened. He said hesitantly, "I'm not sure what you're talking about, Your Majesty."

"It's okay if you don't understand. All you need to do is keep your promise." The queen smiled, turned, and whispered to someone beside her.

Lily felt uneasy watching the queen. She and the queen had devised a plan for today; Lily initially intended to stop the experiment by faking her death, but Fred had somehow prompted Dominic to revive her. However, the queen's words were not part of their agreement. Lily felt as if she were looking at a stranger. The room fell silent.

Suddenly, footsteps echoed as someone approached, holding a boy's hand.