A commotion erupted, and Rhea frowned. She hadn't anticipated Fred's sudden actions.

Fred raised his hands to quiet the room. "We can't afford mistakes given the experiment's complexity," he said. "You must all remain here to prepare. Besides," he paused, glaring at them, "as I said, I tolerate no betrayals, no loose lips. Cooperate, for the experiment's sake."

"Meals will be provided as usual," he continued, "but all communication devices will be confiscated." Guards immediately began collecting phones and other devices. Most were media players, like iPods—no one had been allowed such items in the lab previously. Fred nodded, satisfied.

One person stepped forward. "Your Grace," he said, "we are loyal. We've dedicated ourselves to this project. We will tell no one."

Fred leaned on the table, sneering. "Oh, really? Dead men tell no tales. Would you rather die than stay?" he said maliciously.

No one dared protest. The man who had spoken retreated into silence.

Seeing their compliance, Fred stood. "Good. Preparations then. I'll leave you to it."

He turned to go, but Rhea pursued him. "Your Grace!"

His guards intercepted her, but Fred, seeing it was Rhea, waved them off. She caught up, breathless. "Your Grace, why this abrupt decision?"

"Why? Must I explain myself?" he replied coldly.

"No, it's not that," Rhea said quickly. "It's just… sudden. I haven't had time to prepare—"

Fred interrupted. "Prepare? You have everything you need in the lab."

"No, I mean… has Lily recovered? Is this the optimal time for the experiment?" Rhea improvised.

Fred looked at her intently. "What are you afraid of?"

Rhea hesitated. "I'm… not! I just… received news today that I might obtain the invisibility potion's formula."