"What are you doing?" The queen looked at Fred, then at the document. She recognized it as a will, acknowledging her failing health and impending death. Therefore, she would bequeath the throne to her third grandson. Simultaneously, she would grant Fred full authority to assist in governing the country. She knew signing this will was political suicide.
"It's so obvious you're after my throne!" The queen snatched the paper, glaring at Fred. "My third grandson is only four! Instead of my sons, you want me to entrust my reign to someone who can't even run the country. Anyone can see what you're up to!"
Fred smiled. "No, the third grandson is a bright and promising candidate. I'll merely be assisting him, returning power to him eventually. As for your sons, you know their shortcomings. They're unsuitable."
The queen propped herself up. "Why didn't I realize how ambitious you were?"
"Your Majesty, you supported and helped me become who I am. I owe you a debt of gratitude." He paused. "That's why I've poured my heart into this experiment. Rest assured, I'll do my best. When it succeeds, you will regain your youth, live for decades more—perhaps even forever!"
Fred had said this before. The queen's initial doubt had yielded to temptation; who wouldn't desire immortality and eternal youth? However, she had changed her mind.
"Fred, come here," she said gently.
"Yes, my queen?" Unsure, Fred leaned in. "Is there anything I can do for you?"
"Come closer," she said warmly.
"Your Majesty, what—"
Before he could finish, the queen slapped him. Fred touched his face. "You..."
He was shocked and angry. The slap, though not painful, was humiliating. He wanted to retaliate but, seeing her unwavering gaze and the CCTV camera, clenched his fists.
"What was that for, Your Majesty?" he asked, his voice strained.
"Did it hurt?" she asked softly.
Fred gritted his teeth. "No."
"There you go! I can't even hurt you now; I must do everything you say. So what if the experiment succeeds? I'll just be your puppet, won't I?" She had seen through him. Even if the experiment worked, and she regained her youth, Fred would control everything.