Lily did not want to waste time on meaningless speculation. She knew she was likely correct, but she had to be sure.

The man sighed quietly. "I admire your intelligence and capabilities. Unfortunately..." He shook his head, then said, "Well, at least you'll play a bigger role, Mrs. Russell. You should be proud to contribute to the world. After all, not everyone can do something like that." Lily had no idea what he meant, but sensed it wasn't good. She snorted. "In that case, why don't you do it? I'm sure you'd be prouder than me!"

To her surprise, he wasn't upset, nodding earnestly. "You're right! I would be proud; it would be the greatest honor. However, I'm unsuitable to replace you, even if I wanted to. So, Mrs. Russell, God chose you for this glorious mission!" His eyes sparkled with conviction.

Lily shuddered. The situation was far scarier than she'd imagined. "Just what in the hell is this organization? Some kind of cult?" She couldn't help but suspect it. The man behaved like a brainwashed cultist.

"A cult?" Amused, he gently shook his head. "No, Mrs. Russell, we're far more powerful than you imagine. Just stay here patiently. If you need anything, let them know. We'll fulfill your requests." He paused. "However, if you have any unrealistic ideas, put them aside."

"Like what?" Lily asked coldly.

"Like the stupid thing you did today." He pointed. "If we didn't need you, you wouldn't be talking to me. Do you understand? We've given you exceptional treatment compared to Spades King and Rick."

He rose slowly, using his cane. Lily didn't want him to leave. She stood, watching him go. "So you're just a messenger."

He froze momentarily. Lily knew she was right. She pressed further. "You may think you're superior, but aren't you the same as Rick and the 'boss'? You're all working for someone else. You developed R10 for someone more important, someone from Yudonia—"

He spun around before she could finish.