Fred wondered if Rhea's drug was as effective as she claimed. Meanwhile, Rhea felt increasingly depressed. While her captivity under Alexander had been bearable—a time for plotting her escape—she now felt perpetually trapped in the embassy, uncertain when the organization would take her seriously. She could only wait, though she eagerly anticipated the experiment involving Lily. The concept had awed her back in the laboratory; immortality was a tempting prospect.

"No one can resist immortality," she mused. "If the experiment succeeds, it'll be a monumental breakthrough. I want to see it, even if it's not my experiment. Of course, I know the risks. My experiments have consistently failed; failures far outnumber successes."

The room door opened, revealing Fred. "Your Grace!" Rhea exclaimed, rising excitedly. "Can I start my work now?"

"What work?" Fred asked, settling into a chair. "Is there anything you can do here?"

Rhea chuckled. "Stop teasing me, sir. I'm serious about serving you."

"Tell me first," Fred said, removing a small box from his pocket and opening it to reveal a vial. It resembled perfume, but was subtly different.

Rhea took the vial. "It's simple, but works best with simultaneous hypnosis."

"Hypnosis?" Fred's curiosity was piqued. The combination of hypnosis and the drug intrigued him.

"Yes," Rhea nodded. "I studied hypnosis, but found it only temporarily effective. The subject would regain their will under certain circumstances. So I developed this drug to enhance and prolong the hypnotic effect, placing the subject completely under control."

Fred examined the vial pensively. "Will it work on anyone?"

"Yes," Rhea replied, "but it's best to avoid those with strong willpower. They might quickly emerge from the hypnotic state."

Fred considered this, shaking his head. "No, his willpower isn't strong." Most knew Ross for his kindness and benevolence—qualities Fred perceived as weakness. I wouldn't have gained so much power if Ross were tougher, he thought.

"Then there shouldn't be a problem," Rhea said, studying his expression. "I wonder who you plan to hypnotize. Perhaps I could be of assistance." Fred smiled knowingly.