The queen was speechless. She hadn't seriously considered the ramifications of a successful experiment. She'd envisioned a utopian world where she held the secret to immortality, where Yudonians were revered, and her nation reigned supreme. However, she hadn't contemplated governing a world entirely populated by Yudonians.

Lily noted the queen's perplexed expression. "Of course, these are hypothetical," she said, "because it's not going to happen."

"How are you so certain? Is there a problem with R10?" the queen asked thoughtfully.

Lily shook her head. "I'm unsure about R10; I created it according to the formula. As I said, no one knows if it works until we try it. However, previous experiments had side effects."

"Side effects?" The queen frowned, hearing this for the first time.

"Yes," Lily replied. "While seemingly successful, the previous experiments caused more harm than good. Fred's lab worked on highly destructive, anti-human experiments. He plans on destroying the world!"

"Are you trying to scare me?" The queen asked, scrutinizing Lily.

Lily chuckled. "Think what you will, but I'm sure you'll discern the truth." She felt confident the wise queen would make the right decision.

Meanwhile, someone opened a door and stood before a young woman. Rhea glanced at the high window, seeing tree branches and sunlight. She didn't strain her neck or turn around.

"You seem remarkably calm," Alexander observed, studying her intently.

Rhea smirked. "I knew you'd come looking for me eventually. Later than I expected, but you came." She had a smug air of control.

"Why were you so sure? What if I'm here to kill you?"

Rhea smiled. "You won't. The organization or your 'crazy boss' might, but not you. You're a law-abiding citizen who wouldn't kill a human being. Even if you wanted to, you'd use legal means, wouldn't you?"

Alexander pulled up a chair. "You seem to know me very well," he said indifferently.