The queen fell silent, her expression carefully observed by Fred. Years of experience had taught him that excessive words would only upset her.

"Your Majesty," he began, "do you think I wish for this? I, too, hope to resolve this without sacrificing innocents, but we have no other choice. The situation has changed. Even in Hyderland, they choose the lesser of two evils." He noted her impassivity and continued, "Lily's innocence hardly outweighs your well-being." He gently rested a hand on the wheelchair's armrest, gazing at her earnestly. "Please believe this is the best course for Yudonia. You may not care for yourself, but our people need you."

His words seemed to deeply resonate. Her eyes gleamed as she turned to him. "Our people?"

"Yes! They need your leadership. If the experiment succeeds, every Yudonian will benefit. Imagine: Yudonia, the only nation capable of prolonging life with the R10 formula. Mythora and Feloria will bow to our commands. We'll be free from outside influence! We do this for you, for the nation!"

"Yes," the queen replied, a flicker of her former resolve returning, "for our country." Despite her age and growing indifference, her patriotism remained. For decades since ascending the throne, she'd striven to strengthen Yudonia, to restore its former glory. Even if she couldn't surpass her predecessors, she yearned to free her nation from foreign manipulation. Her failing health frustrated her deeply.

She took a deep breath, gripping the wheelchair's push rings, then straightened, her eyes opening slowly. "Let's proceed as you suggest," she declared.

"Yes, Your Majesty!" Fred responded swiftly.

Meanwhile, Lily remained in bed, wagering on the queen's impatience. Knowing the organization desired her body, Lily calculated that delaying her recovery would agitate the queen, thereby delaying the experiment's final phase. It was detrimental to her health, but she had no alternative.

The door opened. Lily glanced up, expecting the nurses with her children, but instead saw Fred, cane in hand. He quietly observed her, then dismissed his guard, who exited and closed the door.

Lily remained still, feigning unawareness. Fred remained unperturbed; he understood her passive resistance, though it held no sway over him.

"Do you think this will accomplish anything?" he asked, settling into a chair, a smug smile barely concealed.

Lily remained silent, offering no response.