"No, no! I'm just worried those rumors might affect your relationship with Her Majesty," Fred murmured. Ross shook his head. "I won't let them. My mother was here, but you don't know where she is now, right?" Fred nodded. "I'm afraid not."
"Hasn't she contacted you in the past few days? Don't you need to report administrative matters to her?" Ross picked up a document and tossed it onto the desk. Fred flinched and offered a fawning smile. "If you must know, Her Majesty has been in a poor mood lately. She only wants her attendants near her. Regarding official matters, she instructed me to email the important ones, and she'll review them when she's free. I'll report the less important ones upon her return." He shook his head helplessly. "Look at this paperwork! Why don't you help me, Your Highness?"
Ross smiled coldly. "Why? Do you expect me to share your workload?"
"No, no, it's just... there's so much to do. I might not have time to keep you company."
Though Fred implied Ross was a disruption, he remained outwardly respectful and humble. The man was always cautious. Ross stared intently, then rose to leave. He paused, turning back to Fred. "Do you genuinely have no idea where my mother is?"
"If I knew, I'd inform you immediately, Your Highness." After a pause, Fred added, "If you receive any news from Her Majesty, please let me know. I have many official matters to report to her." "Sure," Ross replied, glancing at him before striding from the office.
Fred attempted to follow, hearing Ross tell someone outside, "Take me to my room." The person had already escorted Ross away by the time Fred reached the entrance. He straightened, gazing coldly after the prince.
Ross seems to be insinuating something. Does he already know something?
Fred pondered, unsure. He preferred to wait and see.
It would be best if the prince returned to Yudonia soon, instead of obstructing me!
Fred summoned someone, whispering instructions before dismissing him with, "Hurry up and get it done."
Alone, Fred mused, Ross remains a prince because he hasn't shown the qualities of a king. If he hasn't done so by now, he'll never be one!