Rhea’s indifferent expression left Lily uncertain of her sincerity.

“Rhea, enough with the arrogance,” Lily said, her smile fading. She hoped Rhea would reflect on her behavior.

“You’re the arrogant one!” Rhea retorted, her eyes narrowing. “Lily Christian, I can’t wait to see what happens to you!” She turned and left the laboratory.

Lily’s gaze hardened as she watched Rhea go. Rhea was right; Lily had been misleading her. Based on Alexander’s phone call, Lily knew nothing about the symbiote in Austin’s body—its nature, its spread, or its cure. But Rhea’s knowledge implied familiarity with the symbiote and its neutralization. Rhea’s slip suggested a non-domestic origin, likely necessitating a combination of ancient texts and foreign research.

‘I must inform the old man immediately,’ Lily thought, concerned about Dominic’s well-being. Alexander had reported Dominic as fine, but Lily knew his stubbornness; he would downplay any ailment. She was at an impasse, lacking the expertise to counter the symbiote, relying only on the hope of a swift resolution and external containment efforts.

Shortly after Rhea’s departure, Mike entered. He surveyed Lily’s lab table and asked perfunctorily, “How’s the progress?”

“It’s ongoing,” Lily snapped, gesturing to the experimental table. “We’re awaiting data.”

They exchanged a brief look. Mike nodded. “I hope you succeed soon.” He left.

Lily continued recording data, meticulously observing the computer's changing numbers and making notes. Half an hour later, she packed up and left the laboratory. The overcast sky mirrored her mood as she walked from the research base. A few steps later, Mike appeared, whispering, “I heard your conversation with Rhea. Alex called me too. What’s this symbiote? What’s happening?”

Lily glanced at him before walking on silently. Mike, momentarily surprised, followed. Their unhurried pace concealed any hint of urgency.

“Austin had a symbiote, intentionally triggered. Are you involved?” she asked quietly.