"But the palace is huge, isn't it? Could it be...?" Mike persisted.

"It's simply not possible," Ross interrupted. "I was born and raised there, and I know the palace inside and out. They couldn't have hidden a child there without my knowing."

Mike's eyes glazed over as he fell into deep thought. The prince's words were a crushing blow. He'd always believed Nick was safe within the Yudonian palace. Though he hadn't seen his son, he'd clung to the hope of their reunion. Now, Ross denied even that.

'Where could Nicky be?'

Seeing Mike's despair, Ross softened. "Don't lose hope. Even if your son isn't in the palace, he could be elsewhere. Could he be at Fred's residence? You know, considering Fred's involvement."

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

Ross fell silent, unsure. Mike, reading his expression, understood the prince's uncertainty. After a moment's reflection, he rose and returned to his room.

Ross watched him go, wanting to offer comfort, but decided to give Mike space.

Once inside, Mike called Rhea. "Any updates on the invisibility potion?" she asked immediately.

"No!" Mike replied coldly, caught off guard.

"Then why are you calling? If others find out—"

"Where's my son?" Mike interjected, cutting her off.

Rhea was shocked. "You promised to save him. Where is he?" he pressed.

"You know he's in the Yudonian palace, don't you? If I can develop the invisibility potion, I'll save him. What's wrong?" Rhea was puzzled by his sudden outburst.

"No, he's not in the palace! Where the hell is he?!" Mike roared, his fist clenching.

Rhea was stunned.