The queen, seated in her wheelchair, gently called to Lily, "I'm sorry. It's unfair, I admit, but do you believe in destiny?"

Lily was surprised. "Do your people believe in that?"

"I do!" The older woman nodded. "Perhaps not when I was young, but now, weakened as I am, I do. You may not believe me, but I'm not afraid of dying. It's just… there are things unfinished, and my people still need me. I'm not ready to die, and you are the most suitable candidate among so many. Even your blood type is similar. Don't you think it's your destiny? I'm very sorry, but I have no other choice."

She spoke earnestly, her gaze gentle, yet her intentions were vile.

Lily smiled, found a seat, and gazed at the queen. "What happens when my body grows old and weak?"

"It won't. Your body will remain well-preserved with R10. Besides, my country's finest doctors and scientists will care for you." The queen glanced over her shoulder at Fred, who nodded subtly.

Observing their exchange, Lily propped her head in her hand. "If your doctors and scientists are so brilliant, why did you need me to create R10? Couldn't they have done it?"

The queen was speechless, clearly out of her depth. She frowned, subconsciously looking towards Fred.

Fred interjected, "You're not the only one who could create R10. We wanted you exposed to the drug during your research so your body would absorb it gradually for better results." The queen caught on, nodding. "Yes, that's the reason."

"Even if you could justify your actions, Your Majesty…" Lily looked at the queen, then down at herself. "Will your people accept you as their queen using my body? We are so different in age and appearance. Who would believe I'm the queen?"

Before the queen could respond, Fred said coldly, "I'll handle it. The world will know we have a new queen and that our country possesses the most advanced medicine and technology. People will be pleased. It's an honor for you to sacrifice for such a great project. Your body will live on, revered. What do you have to complain about?"

His disdainful gaze and condescending tone far surpassed the queen's arrogance.

Lily laughed maniacally. "What do I have to complain about? You sound envious. Why don't you replace me and give your body to the queen? It should be your utmost honor!"

Insulted, Fred sputtered, "What the hell are you talking about?! I'm a man! How could Her Majesty use my body?"

"Why not? Perhaps Her Majesty will have a novel experience. Besides, you're from the same country, more compatible genetically. Why? Aren't you willing to sacrifice for your queen and your people?"

Lily stared mockingly, offering a taste of his own medicine.

Fred's lips trembled with rage; the queen remained silent.