It was clear what Rick implied. Ross nodded. "I see. I didn't know. Is my mother still asleep?"

Rick glanced over his shoulder and grunted an affirmative before saying, "She may wake later than usual; she slept in. I'm afraid you'll have to wait a while, Your Highness."

"That's okay, I can wait." Just as he turned to leave, he remembered something. "Where's Fred?"

After a moment's hesitation, Rick answered, "We've arrested him."

"Where is he? Take me to him." Ross had questions for the duke.

Rick remained still, saying blandly, "Her Majesty instructed me not to let anyone near him. He's a felon now."

"Not even me?" the prince asked, slightly upset.

"Please understand, Your Highness," Rick said courteously but firmly, "I'm simply following Her Majesty's orders."

Ross looked at him intently and said coldly, "I know."

He turned and headed toward his usual room. While watching the floor indicator, he suddenly thought of something else. "Where's Lily being held?"

Caught off guard, one of the accompanying officers hesitated. "I have no idea, Your Highness. Who are you referring to?"

Ross glanced at the officer, realizing someone had instructed them to remain silent. He didn't know what had happened at the embassy or who worked for Fred or Yasmin. "Can you tell me who's in charge here now? Besides Her Majesty, whose orders do you follow?"

"We only follow her orders, Your Highness."

Yasmin had likely given direct orders to the embassy staff, having learned her lesson.

Ross ceased his inquiries and returned to his room. At dawn, a knock came. He opened the door to find Rick standing impassively. "Your Highness, Her Majesty is awake."

"So I can see her now?" Ross asked, raising an eyebrow. His unchanged clothes and the tidy bed indicated he hadn't rested.

Rick nodded. "Yes, please come with me, Your Highness."

Ross followed, narrowing his eyes at Rick's sturdy frame. "How long have you served my mother?"

"A very long time," Rick answered vaguely, without looking back. He either didn't wish to, or couldn't, be more precise.

"You're good. I never noticed you before." Ross paused. "Are there others like you around her?"

As crown prince, he knew secret bodyguards protected the royal family, including himself. He'd always believed he knew them all, but he was wrong.