"If you must know, many officials support me. Leave the country to me; it's time for your retirement," he said with a smile, finally revealing his ambition to rule Yudonia. The queen sneered. "Oh, yeah? Who are these people supporting you?"

"Why? Do you plan to eliminate them?" Fred smiled. "It's a pity you won't have the chance. Come now, Your Majesty. Cooperate with me, share in the success. Why make a scene?" Turning, he pointed toward her men. "People will treat you and your men as a joke."

He then cheerfully told his guards, "Take them away, and don't let anyone enter without my permission! We're about to begin the greatest experiment ever."

However, his men remained motionless.

Noticing Fred's displeasure, Rhea scolded, "Didn't you hear the duke? Seize them!"

Hearing this, the guards turned their guns on her.

Alarmed, Rhea paled and stepped back. "Have you gone mad? Not me! Seize her... no, them! Your Grace..." She looked to Fred for help.

Frowning, Fred looked around, understanding dawning. "What are you doing?"

No one answered.

The queen said, "Don't you understand, Fred?"

At that moment, all the men, including the earlier guards, pointed their guns at Fred. He stared, disbelieving, then chuckled. "No, this is impossible. How can this be?"

"Nothing's impossible, Fred. I taught you to always be prepared, didn't I?" The queen remained calm.

Fred realized her composure stemmed not from bravery, but from preparedness. He couldn't understand how she'd kept him in the dark.

"But I am prepared! I did as you taught me!" He wondered, I've thought of everything! What did I miss?