Ch. 2291..2300

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2291-Lily pulled Dominic’s hand down and said thoughtfully, "I don’t have a fever, nor am I delirious. I meant what I said."

"You're going to die!" Dominic thought she had a loose screw.

"I might and might not die, but if I don't do it, there will be no end to this." She said solemnly, "I must complete the experiment to end this."

"She's right!" The door opened, and Rhea entered with a smirk.

"Who the hell are you?" Dominic said with a frown, not knowing who she was.

However, he knew she must be working for Fred since she could freely enter like that.

Lily said, "She's an asshole, just like Fred."

"Sure looks like one." He snorted.

Pleased with herself, Rhea strolled over and looked at Lily. "So what? You're just a goddamn loser now, Lily. Oh, wait, you're worse than a loser."

Rhea shook her head and continued, "So what if you're gifted? Now you’re nothing more than a guinea pig."

"Yet you failed to take my place," Lily mocked.

Rhea chuckled. "I'm not interested in taking your place, got it? I have something more important to do."

"Like what?" Lily asked, "Becoming a fugitive?"

"You motherf—" Rhea caught herself and said, "Say whatever you want. When we rule the world, I no longer need to worry about the Hyderland government."

Dominic suddenly burst out laughing.

Rhea frowned. "What the fuck are you laughing at, old man?"

"You guys aim to rule the world? What the hell?" Dominic wiped his tears and turned to Lily. "Did you hear that? That's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard!"

"What the fuck do you know?" Rhea said grimly, "Once I can control people's minds freely, I can rule the world. Too bad you won't live long enough to see it."

Dominic ignored her and then covered his nose before asking Lily, “Do you smell that?” "Smell what?" Lily said.

"Horseshit!" Dominic fanned the air.

"Watch your mouth, old man!" Rhea stormed over, wanting to grab his collar.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you." Lily sat up and glared at her.

As Lily had subdued her before, Rhea stopped and snorted. “Do you think I’m afraid of you? Your husband will join you soon.” Lily said coldly, “Please leave. We don’t welcome you here.”  

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2292 -Lily did not ask Rhea anything because she would not believe a word Rhea said. After all, the latter had only come to agitate her.

Dissatisfied, Rhea said, "You don't believe me? Your husband and his gang are now at wits' end. That's why they haven't done anything. Furthermore, I've developed a drug that could control people's minds, and they have no idea Mike is under my command now.

"I wonder how you’ll feel if I tell Mike to murder them while they sleep?" she asked smilingly.

Lily glared at her and mocked, "Are you done? Can you fuck off now? Or do you have nothing to do because Fred didn't bother asking you to do anything?"

"You're wrong. I'm now in charge of the entire lab. Too bad you won't live to see the miracles I'll create." Rhea was pleased with herself. Now that she could go anywhere in the embassy, she had come to show off.

Unfortunately, her words did not seem to affect Lily. The latter disdainfully said, “Who cares about your creations?’ Rhea turned to Dominic and studied him. "How did you get in here?"

She narrowed her eyes as if she had never seen him before. She was puzzled by his presence and his seeming closeness to Lily.

However, Dominic did not bother to even look at her.

"Hmm…" Rhea said to Lily, "You still manage to get people to join you, even now. You're good, I'll give you that. It’s a shame he has to die with you in his old age.” Rhea shook her head.

"What the fuck do you care?" Lily said so, then thought of something. She looked up toward a corner, saying, “Fred, I want to talk to you.” Rhea was puzzled, while Dominic looked at Lily in bewilderment. “Lily?” Lily knew there were surveillance cameras in the room, and Fred must be able to see her. Even if he weren't watching her now, someone would tell him about it.

"What the hell are you doing? Are you trying to complain about me?" Rhea frowned, not knowing her intention.

Lily glanced at her without replying.

Rhea grew worried and said, "I'm now the duke's right-hand woman. Do you think he cares about what you say?"

"Then why do you look so nervous?" Lily snorted.

"Just you wait, Lily!" Rhea turned and walked away, then turned back again. "I might go easy on your family if you're willing to hand over the previous lab data."

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2293-Lily was surprised as she leaned back and crossed her arms. She smiled and said, “So, that’s what you’re here for. Don’t you constantly say you’re capable?

Why do you care so much about the lab data?” Rhea grew annoyed, saying, “Hey, the data is the result of collective efforts, all right? You took it, and the database got destroyed afterward. Besides, you’re going to die. You might as well give it to me so I can put it to good use.” She knew Lily had the document but was aware Lily would not give it to her so quickly. Since the lab data was crucial for future experiments, Rhea was eager to get them. Therefore, she tried using Lily’s family to threaten her.

“I’d rather destroy it than give it to you,” Lily said dryly.

“Do you think I can’t succeed without the document? I just don’t want our previous efforts to go to waste. Lily, you should know you can’t escape from here," Rhea looked around and continued, “You know what’s going to happen next.

“When we throw the whole world into chaos, what can your husband do about it? He can’t even save you now, can he? However, I can ensure his safety. And your children, too!” Rhea turned grim, saying, “If you hand me the data, I promise your family will be safe from the pandemic.” “Oh, my God!” Lily looked up at her. “You're so full of shit, aren’t you?” "You son of a—" Rhea gritted her teeth and said, “You’ll be sorry, Lily!” She stormed off.

Soon after, Fred appeared at the door and looked at Lily, somewhat confused.

“You wanted to see me?” Lily shook her head. “I’d like to see Her Majesty.” “What are you up to now?” Fred raised a brow and looked at her warily.

“Since the experiment is about me and the queen, wouldn’t it be better if the two of us could communicate more?” she said matter-of-factly, “I also want you to send Dominic home.” Lily looked toward Dominic. The latter did not expect that and looked stunned.

He stubbornly said, “I’m not leaving!” Fred snorted. “Do you think I’d let him come and go as he pleases?” Lily chuckled. “Don’t forget where you are.”

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2294 -Fred squinted and asked coldly, “What do you mean by that?” “My disappearance might not have caused much of a stir, but Dominic is different.” Lily gave the old man a gentle and respectful look. “He has saved the lives of many rich and powerful people and is well-respected in the country.

“Can you imagine the uproar when people realize someone has abducted him?” Lily studied Fred’s expression and continued, “Do you think you can complete your experiment in peace when that happens?” Her last sentence struck a chord with Fred. After all, the experiment was what mattered to him most. Fred’s expression stiffened as he asked, “Do you think I’m scared of your government?” “Why all the secrecy if you aren’t?” Lily cocked her head and looked at her hand. Casually, she continued, “The Hyderland government has been holding back for the sake of the ties of the two countries.

“However, how will the world see Yudonia, let alone the Hyderland government, if people discover what you’ve done? Besides, do you think no one in Yudonia would try to find out what’s happening now that Her Majesty has been AWOL for so long?” Lily took a breath and continued, “If you cooperate with me, you can complete the experiment sooner. Still, if you don’t…” She glared at Fred with a half-smile, saying, “No one knows what’ll happen.” Fred grew alarmed. He knew she was trying to scare him, but she still had a point. Even Prince Ross had tried to look for the queen.

Although Fred had imprisoned her, there was no telling whether the old-timers would rebel against him if the situation dragged on.

Since he had yet to complete the experiment, he could not risk causing too many problems. Fred found it easy to deal with Ross, but it could become troublesome if the former’s enemies joined forces.

Fred pointed at Dominic and asked, “So all I need to do is send him home?” Now that Lily had recovered, Fred no longer had a use for the stubborn old man.

“I have another request,” Lily said.

Fred grew exasperated. “Don't push it.” “Don’t worry, it’s a simple one.” Lily smiled. “If you hand Rhea to Alexander, I promise to do anything you want.” Fred was astounded. “Rhea?” “Yup.” Lily nodded. “Don’t you think it’s risky to keep her around?” Fred said noncommittal, “I know you two hate each other.” “Yes, but my request is not wholly because of that. I’m fully aware of Rhea’s abilities. I doubt she can be of any help to you.” “Oh?” Fred raised a brow and smiled. “I don’t think so. On the contrary, I believe she’s instrumental.” 

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2295-Lily was surprised Fred would try to protect Rhea. After all, he had abandoned her and the research center before, and Rhea had to go to great lengths to find him.

Still, he did not seem willing to grant Lily’s request now.

“Do you think I’d just give her away?” Fred smiled. “You’re wrong. She’s skillful and loyal. Why would I want to get rid of her? As for whether you want to cooperate, it’s not your decision to make. Don’t be naive.” He turned and glanced at Dominic. “Lock him up!” Lily was puzzled. “If you don’t let Dominic go, you’d be asking for trouble,” she said, trying to warn him of the consequences.

However, Fred turned halfway to her and chuckled. “Oh, yeah? But I’m not afraid of trouble. Lily, do you think I’ve forgotten how you played me last time?

“I’ll settle the old score with you after the experiment.” After a pause, he thought of something and said, “Oh, yes, you don’t have much time left.” He walked out of the room and saw Rhea looking at him from a distance. He frowned as he went over. “You shouldn’t have come here.” He blamed her for provoking Lily.

“I’m sorry! I couldn’t help it,” Rhea murmured.

“You’ll be real sorry if you fail in your tasks.” Fred glared at her. “Don’t think for a moment that I was trying to protect you. You should know why I did it.” “I do, and I thank you for giving me the chance to prove myself,” she said respectfully, lowering her head.

Fred was pleased. After all, he needed someone obedient and capable like her.

He then grunted and strode away.

Rhea slowly raised her head and glanced toward Lily’s room, smirking.

For whatever reason, the duke did not use her as a bargaining chip. It showed Rhea was helpful to him, and she could secure her place at the embassy if she could develop the invisibility potion.

Of course, she still needed to work for it.

…

After lunch, Alexander attended to some business while Austin returned to the X Department.

Dominic asked Austin to come because the department had been busy and needed to sort and process the stuff obtained from the research center. After all, Austin was the most suitable candidate for the job.

Therefore, only Ross and Mike remained in Alexander’s house. The prince seemed relaxed as he enjoyed his coffee in the living room.

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2296 -However, Mike was not as calm or relaxed. He kept switching channels and was unable to finish a complete news report or TV episode.

Ross noticed it and said, “Hey, take it easy.” “I wanted to be like you and enjoy the afternoon tea, Your Highness,” Mike let out a bitter smile, “But I just couldn’t.” “I know the situation is tough, but you can’t let it take a toll on you.” He pondered and pushed a plate of snacks toward Mike. “At least things aren’t entirely out of our control, right?” Having no appetite to eat, Mike hesitated whether or not to say something.

“Do you have something to tell me?” Ross cocked his head.

Although the TV was on, he noticed Mike had kept looking at him.

“I do.” Nodding, Mike interlocked his fingers. He hesitated for a long while before asking, “Have you seen a little boy in the palace, Your Highness?” “A little boy?” Ross frowned, puzzled.

“Yes, he’s around ten. A smart and well-behaved Hylander…” Mike gestured hopefully.

As Ross lived in the palace and might have seen Nick, Mike wanted to ask the prince about Nick as soon as the two adults met. However, Mike hesitated because it would sound like he was interrogating the prince.

Since Mike was alone with Ross today, the former could no longer hold back the urge to ask the question.

Ross noticed Mike’s hopeful expression and earnest gesturing. The former raised his brow and asked, “Are you referring to your son?” “I am.” Mike nodded. “Have you seen him? Do you know where he is? Is he in the palace?” Unfortunately, Ross shook his head. “No.” The glow in Mike’s eyes dimmed, but he was not willing to give up. “If you haven’t, how do you know I’m talking about my son?” “I can tell from your description,” Ross answered, “I’ve heard about what happened to him, but I haven’t seen a Hyderland child in the palace. I’m sure there aren’t any in there.” Mike felt like he had lost his final hope. He mumbled in disbelief, “How can that be? The intel can’t be wrong. Nicky must be in the Yudonian palace. How come you’ve never seen him?” Ross wanted to console Mike, but the latter thought of something and looked up, asking, “Are there secret passages or chambers in the palace you don’t know about?” Since the palace was massive, Mike thought his son might be in such places.

Ross frowned and said, “That’s absurd.” Having grown up in the palace, he would have known if there were secret passages or chambers.

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2297 -“But…the palace is huge, right? Could it be—” Mike still refused to give up.

“It’s just not possible,” Ross interrupted, “I was born and raised there, and I know the palace inside out. They couldn’t have held a child there without me knowing.” Mike’s eyes glazed over as he fell into deep thought. What the prince said was a huge blow to him.

Mike always thought Nick was in the Yudonian palace. Although he could not see his son, he knew Nick was in a safe place and would be able to reunite with him. Yet, Ross told him that Nick was not even there.

‘Where could Nicky be if not there?’ Ross softened when he saw how lost Mike looked. “Don’t lose hope. Even if your son is not in the palace, he could still be in another place. Could he be in Fred’s residence instead? You know, since he’s behind this."

"Do you think it's likely?" Mike asked hesitantly.

Ross fell silent because he did not know for sure.

Seeing his expression, Mike knew the prince could not be sure as well. After some thought moment, Mike got up and returned to his room.

Ross watched him leave and wanted to go after and cheer him up, but on second thought, he decided it was better to give Mike some space.

Once inside the room, Mike called Rhea. She quickly picked up and asked, “Any updates on the invisibility potion?” Caught off guard, Mike said coldly, "No!"

"Then what are you calling me for? If others find out—"

Before Rhea could finish complaining, Mike interjected, "Where's my son?"

Rhea was shocked.

"You promised to save him. Where is he?" he asked again.

"You know he's in Yudonian palace, don't you? If I can develop the invisibility potion, I'll be able to save him. What's the matter?" Rhea was puzzled by his sudden loss of patience.

‘Had he gone insane?’ "No, he's not even in the palace! Where the hell is he?!" Mike interrupted her in agitation, his free hand clenching into a fist on his side.

Rhea was taken aback.

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2298-"Where could he be if not the palace?" Rhea thought for a moment, then suddenly realized something. "Wait a minute. How do you know he's not in the palace? Who told you that?"

Mike caught himself. He lost his cool, not knowing where his son was, but Rhea's question brought him to his senses.

'Oh, shit! I can't tell her Prince Ross told me, can I?' he thought in alarm.

"I…" After a pause, he said, "Based on what Alex found out, Nick is not even in the palace. Everything is nothing but a smokescreen. Since you've established yourself in the organization, help me find where my son is, okay?"

"Alexander?" Rhea frowned but thought Mike’s explanation was reasonable.

Indeed, Alexander had been helping Mike find Nick, but to no avail. That was why Rhea could tempt Mike.

"How could you believe what Alexander told you? Has he visited the palace?

Did he take you there, or are you saying he has relatives or friends in Yudonia?"

Rhea retorted dismissively.

"He can't even save his wife. Do you think he can save your son? Don't be naive, Mike."

Since Mike had made up the excuse, he did not argue. Instead, he said, "If you're so confident, why don't you help me rescue my son?"

"I will, okay? But before I do, what about the invisibility potion? You promised you'd find out about it, didn't you?" Rhea tried to push him instead.

Mike was stumped. He kept quiet to show he was feeling guilty, making Rhea think she had managed to appease him.

After a moment, she said, "Be patient, Mike. If we agitate them, they might harm your son, you know? What matters most now is for you to help me find the formula for the invisibility potion.

“Oh, yeah, do you know who Dr. Blanc is? Which hospital or lab is his team from? How come I've never heard about them before?"

Having stayed in the country for some time, Rhea had a fair understanding of the local medical field. Still, she had never heard of Dr. Blanc. From the way Mike described things, Dr. Blanc and his people knew what they were doing.

Mike mumbled, "I have no idea because they haven't told me everything.

Besides, Dr. Blanc has always been secretive and hasn't visited often.

However…"

Intrigued, Rhea quickly asked, "However, what?"

"I've learned something about the invisibility potion. Dr. Blanc said they had a breakthrough, but they were still working on it. He couldn't guarantee they would succeed." Mike then added, "However, I think he only said that so no one would try to steal their creation."

"You're right!" Rhea nodded in agreement. "If they hadn't succeeded, they wouldn't even mention it, would they? At the same time, they can't afford to let the outsiders know that they have succeeded."

The more she said, the more convinced and excited she became. "Then you must get your hands on the formula. Once I manage to develop the potion, rescuing your son will be a breeze."

Giving no reply, Mike seemed hesitant.

Rhea grew nervous. As she was never 100% sure about the effectiveness of her hypnosis, she would grow wary if he did not act as he should.

"Did you hear what I said?" she asked, raising her voice.

Mike finally said, "Okay. I believe you."

Rhea sighed in relief immediately after.

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2299-A commotion broke out, and Rhea frowned—she did not expect Fred to do this all of a sudden.

Fred held up his hands to calm everyone down, saying, “We can’t afford to make mistakes due to the experiment’s complexity. So you all must stay here to make preparations. Besides…” After a pause, he glared at everyone. “As I said before, I don’t tolerate betrayals or people who can’t keep their mouths shut. So please bear with me for the experiment’s sake.

“Rest assured that I will provide meals as usual, but you’ll have to hand over any communication devices.” As soon as he said that, the guards took away everything they had on them.

Before Rhea could protest, one of the guards snatched her phone away. As no one was allowed to bring any communication devices into the laboratory before this, most devices the guards confiscated consisted of media players like iPods.

Fred nodded in satisfaction when he saw what they were.

“Your Grace.” Someone could not help but come forward. “We have all been loyal to you and have put our best effort into the project. We will never tell a soul about it.” With one hand propped on the table, Fred sneered. “Oh, yeah? Well, I only believe that dead men tell no tales. Would you rather die than stay here?” he said maliciously.

No one else dared to protest, and the man who spoke up earlier stepped back and shut up.

As they had yielded, Fred stood up and said, “Well, since you guys are okay with it, it’s settled. I’ll leave you guys with the preparations.” He turned to leave, but Rhea chased after him. “Your Grace!” Fred’s guards stopped Rhea while he looked over his shoulder. He saw it was Rhea and waved the guards off, allowing Rhea to jog over. “Your Grace, why did you make such an abrupt decision?” “Why? Must I tell you these things beforehand?” Fred spoke coldly.

“No, that’s not what I meant.” Rhea quickly explained, “It’s just too sudden, and I haven’t had time to prepare—” Fred interrupted, “What do you need to prepare? You have all you need in the lab.” “No, what I’m trying to say is, has Lily recovered? Is this the best time to conduct the experiment?” Rhea asked, trying to come up with a reason on the spot.

Fred gave her a deep look. “What are you afraid of?” “I’m…. not!” Rhea hesitated for a moment and said, “You see, I received news today that I might get my hands on the invisibility potion’s formula.”

Spoiled by mr. russell chapter 2300 -A commotion broke out, and Rhea frowned—she did not expect Fred to do this all of a sudden.

Fred held up his hands to calm everyone down, saying, “We can’t afford to make mistakes due to the experiment’s complexity. So you all must stay here to make preparations. Besides…” After a pause, he glared at everyone. “As I said before, I don’t tolerate betrayals or people who can’t keep their mouths shut. So please bear with me for the experiment’s sake.

“Rest assured that I will provide meals as usual, but you’ll have to hand over any communication devices.” As soon as he said that, the guards took away everything they had on them.

Before Rhea could protest, one of the guards snatched her phone away. As no one was allowed to bring any communication devices into the laboratory before this, most devices the guards confiscated consisted of media players like iPods.

Fred nodded in satisfaction when he saw what they were.

“Your Grace.” Someone could not help but come forward. “We have all been loyal to you and have put our best effort into the project. We will never tell a soul about it.” With one hand propped on the table, Fred sneered. “Oh, yeah? Well, I only believe that dead men tell no tales. Would you rather die than stay here?” he said maliciously.

No one else dared to protest, and the man who spoke up earlier stepped back and shut up.

As they had yielded, Fred stood up and said, “Well, since you guys are okay with it, it’s settled. I’ll leave you guys with the preparations.” He turned to leave, but Rhea chased after him. “Your Grace!” Fred’s guards stopped Rhea while he looked over his shoulder. He saw it was Rhea and waved the guards off, allowing Rhea to jog over. “Your Grace, why did you make such an abrupt decision?” “Why? Must I tell you these things beforehand?” Fred spoke coldly.

“No, that’s not what I meant.” Rhea quickly explained, “It’s just too sudden, and I haven’t had time to prepare—” Fred interrupted, “What do you need to prepare? You have all you need in the lab.” “No, what I’m trying to say is, has Lily recovered? Is this the best time to conduct the experiment?” Rhea asked, trying to come up with a reason on the spot.

Fred gave her a deep look. “What are you afraid of?” “I’m…. not!” Rhea hesitated for a moment and said, “You see, I received news today that I might get my hands on the invisibility potion’s formula.” 