The others remained quiet. Everyone, including Ross, understood the situation. Ross, however, was reluctant to accept the truth.

"No, I don't believe it!" the prince said grimly, one hand braced against the table. Though politicians often operated in morally ambiguous areas, he knew the true nature of those experiments. Many had perished in Yudonia during the pandemic, and even those who received a cure suffered lasting consequences.

Having visited patients across the country, he felt deeply for them. Discovering the virus's possible connection to Fred and its origin in Yudonia, he was both shocked and enraged. He immediately began considering how to confront the duke.

Yet, they now claimed his mother was the mastermind.

He had always looked up to her. Despite her limited time with him, he knew she was dedicated to governing the country. He understood the immense difficulty of her position and respected her greatly. Even as a prince, he faced mockery and criticism—some directed at him, others at Queen Yasmin for not relinquishing her throne. He understood her decision, however.

He believed his mother was the most suitable ruler for Yudonia, and he prioritized the nation's best interests above all else. He was content to continue his duties as prince. Therefore, it was almost inconceivable that his kind and gentle mother, friendly even to the servants, would be implicated in such wicked creations.

"Well, perhaps things aren't as they seem," Austin said, attempting to comfort Ross.

Ross nodded vigorously. "I'm sure they aren't! I'll return to the embassy now to discover the truth."

He was desperate for answers.

"Ross..." Austin tried to dissuade him, but the prince rushed off.

"Austin," Alexander said, "Let him go. You can't stop him."

"But it's clear Queen Yasmin is behind everything. If he confronts her—"

Alexander interrupted, "Come on, she's not Fred, okay?"

Austin was confused.

"Even if the queen is involved, she won't harm Prince Ross," Alexander explained. "He's her son, after all."

"That's hard to say," Mike shook his head. "Not all families are close. Look at how Rhea treats her parents. Besides, Yasmin is a queen, not an ordinary person. She's clung to the throne for decades, even overseeing the experiment. She wants to live and rule forever. I doubt she cares about her son." Mike sighed.

Alexander and Austin knew Mike had a valid point, though it was inappropriate to voice such sentiments in Ross's presence.