"I have no idea," Alexander said. "The entire embassy seems off, just like Rhea."

After some thought, Mike hesitantly asked, "Do you think... Fred has started a coup?" It seemed unlikely. Even if so, Mike knew he should still be able to reach Rhea, who was on Fred's side. At that moment, a voice said, "That's impossible."

They turned to see Ross slowly descending the stairs. "I don't think that's what's happening."

"What makes you say that?" Mike asked, though he shared the same initial thought.

"My men are in the embassy," Ross explained. "If there were a coup, they would have reported it. The embassy staff are working as usual, but Fred could be doing something in secret. They haven't seen him for two days, though he's been giving instructions."

Alexander added thoughtfully, "So he's up to something, and he might have told Rhea not to contact outsiders. That's interesting, considering Fred's apparent concern for the invisibility potion formula. What could have changed his mind?"

"It can only be the R10 experiment," Mike said, looking at Ross. "Your Highness, why didn't you tell us you have men in the embassy? Can't you tell them to rescue Lily?"

Ross offered a bitter smile. "Do you think I haven't considered that? Fred is highly vigilant; it's not easy to plant a mole. Besides, my men are low-level workers with no access to him. They can only observe the office. As for rescuing people..." He shook his head. "If they were capable, I would have already found my mother."

Mike nodded.

"Her Majesty must be in the embassy," Alexander stated. "Since Fred hasn't prepared to return to Yudonia, he must want to continue the experiment here. The queen needs to be present."

Ross propped his chin on his hand and sighed. "I think so, but I can't figure out where Fred would hide her. I've searched the embassy thoroughly."

Alexander and Mike exchanged a look, understanding Ross's helplessness. They, too, had found nothing during their search under the guise of disinfection.

"Whatever it is, we must find out what they're up to. Do you think the experiment has encountered problems?"

"I doubt it," Alexander said, after a moment of reflection. "I don't think Fred has begun the experiment yet. There's no point in speculating. I'll have someone investigate. Mike, try calling Rhea again. If she doesn't answer, find another way to reach her."

Alexander paused, realizing the inappropriateness of ordering the prince.

However, Ross didn't mind. "It's okay. Just tell me what you need me to do."

Alexander nodded. "Please, ask your men to find out what's going on."