"Don't worry, Your Grace. I'm sure I can develop it. Dr. Blanc detected traces of an invisibility potion, so it likely exists. Perhaps it's still at the house where Alexander held me."

"So you know how to make it?" Fred was pleased by her scheming look. He valued ambition and cunning; such traits were useful to him.

"Yes, you can trust me. And given time, I'll surpass Lily," she said earnestly.

"Lily?" Fred was surprised. He hadn't seen her all day, not because he'd forgotten, but because Ross had monopolized his time. The prince had first needed to discuss something important, then wanted Fred to attend a meeting with a foreign minister, and finally, had confessed to being confused about something.

Fred was frustrated and anxious, but maintained his composure. Ross was a popular prince in his prime; offending him would be unwise. More importantly, Ross discovering his activities would ruin everything. He had to remain patient, hoping the prince would leave soon.

"Yes, Lily," Rhea reiterated, unaware of Fred's thoughts. "She's less capable than you think. I witnessed her many failures in the lab."

"Why the animosity? Did she do something to you?" Fred asked, sensing her hostility.

Caught off guard, Rhea replied, "No, I don't hate her. I'm simply stating facts to prevent her from deceiving you."

"Do I seem gullible?" Fred asked coldly, feigning displeasure.

Alarmed, Rhea quickly said, "No, that wasn't my intention!"

Fred said, "Focus on your work. Instead of dwelling on Lily's failures, concentrate on proving yourself. Failure will ruin my plans, and thus your ambitions."

Rhea's greatest fear was not achieving her desires. Neglected in favor of Anastasia during childhood, she'd often been denied her wants. While her parents later showered her with gifts, it held little meaning. She'd vowed to obtain everything she desired as an adult. However, she now found her goals more challenging than anticipated.