"Enough!" Yasmin exclaimed. "I won't waste my time arguing over hypotheticals. I've made up my mind, and no one can change it."

After a pause, she said grimly, "Seize them both!"

When the guards advanced, Ross tossed something forward, grabbed Lily's wrist, and declared, "Let's go!" Before she could react, he was out the door with her in tow. Smoke erupted, obscuring vision and causing everyone to cough. Rick immediately rushed to the queen's side, shouting, "Protect Her Majesty!" He then used his walkie-talkie to order, "Do not let His Highness leave the embassy. Close the gate!"

Chaos reigned amidst coughing and groans. By the time the smoke cleared, Lily and Ross had vanished.

"I'll order a pursuit, Your Majesty," Rick said solemnly.

"No need," the queen replied. "He's my son. He can't stay away forever." A conflicted sigh escaped her lips. "But the woman..."

Rick disliked Lily. Essential to Yasmin though she was, she had threatened the queen.

"It doesn't matter," Yasmin said, slowly turning to the still boy in bed. She knew they would return as long as Nick remained with them.

Ross, holding Lily's wrist, raced upstairs, bypassing the elevator. He burst through the first-floor door. Office workers tried to stop them, but were shocked to see the prince. Confused, one stammered, "Your Highness?"

"Step aside!" Ross commanded.

They obeyed instantly. Rick's order to stop them arrived too late. Outside, Ross saw the guards in pursuit. He drew a pistol, pointing it at them. "Step forward and die!"

Everyone froze, including the still-dazed Lily. Before she could react, she was outside the embassy, Ross standing protectively over her. Was he rescuing her?

"Go! Hurry!" he urged, glancing over his shoulder.

"What about you?" she asked.

"Don't worry about me. I'm the prince," Ross said, staring ahead. "I can't change my mother's mind, so this is all I can do. Go! She'll think twice about pursuing you once you're clear of the embassy."