"I'm giving you a chance now," Fred said. "If you refuse to talk to me, you might not have another opportunity." He gazed at Lily with a victorious smile. Lily slowly turned her head, glancing at him coldly before looking away.

"I'm curious," Fred continued. "Have you accepted your fate, or are you still naively hoping for rescue?" He cocked his head, sizing her up. Then, with a hint of emotion, he added, "If it weren't for the circumstances, I admire you. You're undoubtedly a rare talent."

Lily sighed, staring at the wall. Finally, she spoke. "I'm just as curious as you. Does Her Majesty not see through you, or is she deceiving you?"

Fred's smile vanished, replaced by a frown. "What do you mean?"

"Nothing," Lily replied. "I was wondering if you believe yourself smarter than everyone else, if you think everything is under your control." Her gaze, one of indifference, contempt, and even pity, unsettled Fred. Other than Her Majesty, everyone treats me with fear. Even my enemies are scared! Yet she's giving me that look. Pity? I don't need her pity!

He suppressed his anger, chuckling coldly. "Do you think you can sow discord between Her Majesty and me?"

"When have I ever done that?" Lily countered. "I was simply stating what troubles you."

"Please! Nothing is troubling me," Fred snorted, unconvincingly.

Lily smiled, unconvinced. "Do you want me to lay it bare?"

She sat up, picked up her water, and drank half, moistening her dry lips. Despite her two-day silent strike, she could still converse normally.

"I know Hylanders are into mind games," Fred said, rising with the aid of his cane, "but they're futile against us!"

As he turned to leave, Lily casually asked, "Are you afraid?"

Fred paused, slightly turning around, puzzled.

Lily emphasized, "Afraid that Her Majesty has discovered your secret, that you've fallen into her trap?"

Fred's anger flared. "Shut the hell up! You can say whatever you want, but you can't slander Her Majesty!"