Despite her caring tone, the queen continued to look at Lily. Rhea, noticing Lily’s disregard for her as well, felt a familiar sting. She hated being ignored; it had been a constant throughout her life. Despite her accomplishments, people still treated her as insignificant. As long as Lily was present, Rhea remained secondary. Unable to resist, she tried again to persuade the queen. "Your Majesty, we have all the necessary personnel and resources to proceed with the experiment today. You shouldn't give up now!"

She knew the outcome would differ significantly if the experiment continued. However, the queen's temper flared. She glared at Rhea, sharply ordering, "I told you to leave!"

Startled, Rhea dared not press her luck. Biting her lip, she began, "If you need anything—" but stopped abruptly, seeing the queen's impatience. She quickly left with the others.

Reaching the doorway, she couldn't help glancing back. Envy and resentment welled within her as she watched the two gaze at each other. Only Lily, the queen, and her attendant remained. The queen turned and said gently, "Leave us."

"But..." The attendant, sensing the queen's expression, complied.

The queen looked at Lily and sighed. "Are you going to tell me to stop the experiment?"

"Will you listen?" Lily asked hoarsely, her frustration evident. The thought of them experimenting on Nick left her breathless. How could they do such a thing to a child? How could Fred even consider prolonging his life in such a way? Who does he think he is?

The queen raised an eyebrow, offering no reply. They both knew persuasion was futile; their relationship was now strangely complex. While the queen sought to use Lily's body to prolong her own life, Lily should rightfully fear and resent her. Yet, having endured so much together, a peculiar friendship had blossomed. After a long silence, Lily finally asked, "Are you that afraid of death?"