"You make a lot of sense, Rhea." The queen smiled approvingly. Rhea felt reassured; she had successfully gauged the queen's intentions.

Lily threatened, "Your Majesty, if you insist on proceeding with this experiment, I will not participate. I refuse to be involved in something destined to fail."

When the queen frowned, Rhea offered, "I can do it."

"Rhea, you—"

"Your Majesty, while I may not surpass Lily's abilities by much, I have won numerous international awards. Although my knowledge of herbal medicine is limited—unlike Lily's success in creating the R10 drug—I am highly experienced in experimental procedures and surgery." She added with a smile, "Trust me. I can do it well."

She knew she had nothing to lose. Previously, she had worried about Fred's demands that she succeed despite the low probability of success. However, the queen's apparent acceptance of failure removed that pressure. Furthermore, Fred's death during the experiment would eliminate a significant threat. Dealing with the unpredictable Fred had always required caution; the queen, Rhea suspected, would be far easier to manage.

I can eliminate Fred during the experiment and gain the queen's trust. And sabotage Lily! Rhea almost laughed, but the presence of others restrained her. Moments before, she'd been anxious, but now she had the queen's apparent confidence and her own safety secured.

Yet, the queen merely smiled and showed no inclination to entrust her with leading the experiment.

"Your Majesty, you can investigate my background if you doubt me. I would not lie; I truly can do it!" Rhea's anxiety grew.

"I believe in your abilities," the queen stated flatly, her gaze shifting to Lily.

Rhea was perplexed. She believes in me, yet refuses to let me lead? Does this mean the queen only trusts Lily?

Urgently, Rhea pressed, "Should we begin the experiment now, Your Majesty? Everything is prepared; we can start immediately. I will demonstrate my capabilities!" She wanted to begin before the queen changed her mind.

However, Lily and the queen seemed lost in their own world.

Suddenly, Rhea sensed she could never replace Lily or fully earn the queen's trust, regardless of her actions.

"Dismiss them," the queen instructed with a slight wave, her eyes fixed on Lily.

Rhea was stunned. "Your Majesty?"

"You must be tired. Go rest now," the queen said gently.