All personnel took safety precautions during the transfer, possessing limited knowledge of the virus. Experts within the country were researching it, and a vaccine was under development, though yet unsuccessful.

Lily chose a small hospital in suburban Kingsland over a larger city hospital for two reasons. First, she feared the virus's spread in a crowded environment. Second, despite its size, the hospital offered access to necessary equipment and personnel through the Russell family's influence; its remote location was therefore acceptable. Alexander was transferred discreetly, his escort comprised of his most loyal bodyguards to ensure secrecy. His condition remained somewhat stable during transit, though he remained feverish, unconscious, pale, and emaciated. Lily, worried, checked his pulse every half-hour. While irregular, it was stable enough to alleviate some of her concern.

However, by evening, they reached the hospital; Alexander's fever had worsened, and after vomiting blood, he became even more lethargic. Lily, feeling burdened, was far from the relaxed state she’d enjoyed two days prior. She drew three vials of blood for study.

Meanwhile, Maria cheerfully instructed the maids to prepare additional dishes. Reassured by Rhea's two-day absence from the laboratory, she felt at ease. News of the laboratory's relocation to an undisclosed address, coupled with a recent disappearance, had worried her. "She should stay by my side, not go to the lab," she thought.

Fabian's mood had also improved over the past two days, mirroring Cameron's complete change of attitude. Cameron's altered tone, including a voluntary call to discuss the project and advise patience, suggested a connection to his daughter's secret. Fabian mused, "I wonder what this top secret is. Knowing sooner would have saved me considerable effort in securing the project."

Lunchtime brought the aroma of delicious food. As Maria ascended to call her daughter, she saw Rhea descending, neatly dressed, and apparently preparing to leave.

"Rhea, lunch is ready. Are you going out?"

"Yes," Rhea replied flatly, heading to the foyer to change her shoes, bypassing the dining table. "I'm going now."

"Hey, it's lunchtime. Why are you leaving now? Eat first. You shouldn't be hungry! I know you haven't had breakfast. Come on!" Maria, feeling closer to her daughter in recent days, hurried to take Rhea's hand. A gesture she'd previously avoided, it reflected her belief that Rhea, despite her tough exterior, would support her family in crucial moments.

Rhea, though slightly hungry and not entirely rushed, followed her mother to the dining table after a frowning glance at the clock and a reluctant two steps.