"Because only our opinions matter," Lily mused, then added, "Unless you choose to believe Rhea."

Yasmin's expression tightened as she wheeled away. "I... don't trust anyone."

Lily gazed at her back and spoke gently. "Your Majesty, I know you're dedicated to the experiment, but there are other things in life. Have you ever considered letting go of your burdens to sightsee? You've done enough as queen over the last few decades. Aren't you tired of living a lonely life?"

The older woman caressed her knees, staring down at her legs. "Sightsee, huh? I've forgotten what that's like." Yasmin hadn't used her legs for many years. Initially, she could stand and take a few steps, but that was no longer possible. She'd grown accustomed to her wheelchair, yet Lily's suggestion stirred a pang of sorrow.

Lily asked, "What if I can help you stand again? What if you can walk again?"

After a silence, Yasmin turned, her gaze intense. "Are you serious?"

Irrepressible longing, mingled with deep suspicion, shone in the older woman's eyes. Lily shifted her gaze to the queen's legs, stepping closer and crouching. Yasmin trembled as Lily gently placed a hand on her knee. The queen felt nothing, yet a desperate yearning to rise filled her.

Without speaking, Lily tapped and pressed the queen's legs several times at different points, then looked up at Yasmin.

"How are they?" The queen's voice trembled.

"Your legs have been numb for many years, haven't they?" Lily asked softly. "But it was a gradual loss of sensation, not a sudden one."

"Yeah, you're right!" Yasmin nodded repeatedly, pressing her legs. "So?"

"I can stimulate your nerves through acupuncture, and you will regain sensation. However, it won't happen overnight," Lily explained.

"How long will it take?" Yasmin grasped her legs.