“What are you doing?” The queen looked at Fred, then looked at the document. She realized it was a will, stating she knew she was about to die from deteriorating health. Therefore, the queen would pass on the throne to her third grandson.
Simultaneously, she would give Fred the full authority to assist in governing the country. She knew signing the will would be a political suicide.
“It’s so obvious you’re after my throne!” The queen grabbed the paper and glared at Fred. “My third grandson is only four. Instead of the princes, you want me to entrust my reign to someone who can’t run the country. Anyone with a brain can tell what you’re up to!”
Fred smiled. “No, the third grandson is a bright and promising candidate. I’ll just be assisting him. I’ll return power to him one day. As for your sons, you know what they’re like. They aren’t suitable candidates at all!”
The queen propped herself up and said, “Why didn’t I realize how ambitious you were?”
“Of course you did, Your Majesty. You also supported and helped me become who I am today. I should thank you for what you’ve done for me!”
After a pause, he continued, “That’s why I’ve poured my heart into this experiment. Rest assured, I’ll do my best to make it work. When the experiment succeeds, you will regain your youth and live for decades more. You can even live forever!”
Fred had said something similar many times before. The queen was doubtful when she first heard about it. She felt tempted after hearing it repeatedly. After all, anyone would want to achieve immortality and eternal youth.
However, the queen had changed her mind. She gently addressed him, “Fred, come here.”
“Yes, my queen?” Not expecting anything, Fred leaned in. “Is there anything I can do for you?”
“Come closer,” the queen spoke warmly.
“Your Majesty, what—”
Before he could finish, the queen slapped him. Fred palmed his face and said, “You…”
He was shocked and angry. Although the slap wasn’t painful, it was humiliating. He wanted to hit the queen back but clenched his fists and stopped himself when he saw her fearless gaze and the CCTV on the ceiling.
Fred said in a strained voice, “What was that for, Your Majesty?”
“Did it hurt?” the queen asked softly.
Fred gritted his teeth and shook his head. “No.”
“There you go! I can’t even hurt you now; I must do everything you say. So what if the experiment succeeds? I’ll just be your puppet, right?” She saw through Fred.
Even if the experiment worked and she became young again, Fred would have everything under his control.
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