The queen lowered her utensils, ceasing her meal. Her appetite, she reflected, was not what it once was. Calmly, she glanced over her shoulder at Fred. "Then what do you think? What would you have him do?"

Fred burst into laughter. "My dear Queen, Prince Ross is no child. He wouldn't do as I wish, would he? Still, I'm confident he's not on your side." He wagged a finger, speaking with assurance.

The queen chuckled. "He's my son. Shouldn't he be on my side, rather than yours?"

"No, Your Majesty, you're mistaken," Fred said gravely. "You and I are on the same side."

"Fred, are you jesting?" The queen laughed. "It's amusing, I'll grant you that."

"Enough with the pretense, my clever Queen. You know better than anyone that none of your sons desires your continued reign. Who wishes to remain a prince forever? They yearn to replace you as head of Yudonia," he stated with conviction. "I am the only one who wishes for your enduring power. I am your closest aide; your stepping down would greatly affect me."

"That's why we're on the same side, Your Majesty. I am the only one who truly cares for you!" He sighed, shaking his head.

The queen remained silent, neither agreeing nor disagreeing.

Fred studied her for a moment. "Very well, I must ascertain the prince's reason for his visit. Rest well, Your Majesty. You are about to be reborn!" He offered a knowing smile and directed someone to remove the food cart before departing. However, he did not proceed directly to the prince; instead, he changed his clothes.

Stepping into the elevator, the doors opened to reveal Ross, clearly angry and impatient. Fred saluted. "My Prince, I apologize for my lateness. I have been exceedingly busy." Ross glared. "How dare you keep me waiting?"

"I apologize, Your Highness!" Fred bowed deeply. "Punish me as you see fit. I deserve it."

Ross stared, then snorted. "Forget it. You were working hard. What message would I send by punishing you? Take me to your office. Let me see this heavy workload."

Fred hesitated. "Why… can't I go to your office?" Ross asked.

Fred quickly replied, "No, no, of course, Your Highness! It's merely that my office is… disorganized, and I wouldn't want to be disrespectful."

"Give me a break. I'm not a neatness fanatic." Ross entered the elevator, turning to face outward. "What are you waiting for? Press the button."

Fred, recovering himself, nodded repeatedly. "Yes, Your Highness."

After pressing the button, he covertly observed the prince, pondering the purpose of his visit.