"Really?" Fred raised a skeptical eyebrow, his interest piqued.

"If I can't do it, I'll accept your punishment," Rhea promised, securing his agreement to give her a chance.

Fred's expression softened as he nodded. "Fine. I'll give you another chance. I'll have someone bring you the information. I don't care about your methods, or if your usual techniques work. I just want results." He stared intently into Rhea's eyes.

She nodded, gritting her teeth.

"Besides," Fred turned toward the doorway, a curious glint in his eyes, "is creating an invisibility potion even possible?"

Rhea was taken aback. She'd expected him to forget about it.

"Don't worry," Fred added, his gaze inquisitive. "I'm just asking about its feasibility, even if you haven't done it yet." He seemed genuinely interested.

Rhea wanted to say it was nearly impossible, but fear of upsetting Fred held her back. She nodded, saying, "It's not entirely impossible. I can try."

"Great!" Fred's satisfied expression showed his eagerness for her success. "I look forward to your creation, then."

He returned to Rhea, his demeanor gentler. "I know you're eager to prove yourself, and confident in your abilities. I've reviewed your record; your skills are remarkable. However, I don't care about your past. I only care about what you can do now and in the future. Do you understand?"

Rhea nodded docilely. "Yes, sir."

Pleased, Fred patted her shoulder. "You have two days. Don't keep me waiting."

"I won't, Your Grace," Rhea replied respectfully, then sighed, slumping against the door. Even her legs felt weak.

Fred projected an air of kindness, often smiling. Yet, he was far more intimidating than the fiercely-looking "boss." The latter, while suspicious and hot-tempered, was at least predictable. After working for the "boss" for so long, Rhea no longer feared him; she knew how to manage him. However, Fred was an unknown quantity, his unpredictability compounded by his status. Rhea knew she had to impress him to secure her position within the organization.