“Ross, you’re not as young as you used to be. How could you not understand?” Yasmin looked helpless. “Sacrifices are always necessary to accomplish great things. Countless lives were lost building our country’s foundation. As the crown prince, how could you not understand that?” she stressed, as if instructing him in the ways of kingship. “These sacrifices are nothing compared to the great achievements we’re about to make.”

Disappointed, Ross asked, “So you admit you allowed Fred to do all that?”

Yasmin remained indifferent. “I only knew about it. I never asked him to do those things.” She felt no guilt. Stopping Fred would have revealed her distrust, potentially derailing his research into immortality. Simultaneously, she knew she had to offer him incentives; otherwise, he wouldn't have worked so tirelessly.

“You only knew about it?!” Ross slammed the table angrily. “You indulged him! Didn’t you see how many innocent people died and suffered during the pandemic? Even those in the palace were infected!” He had traveled throughout Yudonia, shocked and agonized by what he witnessed. Now, knowing his mother had permitted it all, he felt even worse. She could have prevented it.

“Ross, that was an accident. No one wanted it to happen,” Yasmin murmured, sighing.

“An accident? So you’re saying it’s not your fault at all? That it’s acceptable to sacrifice everything—including me and Yudonia—for your so-called great achievements?” He glared, demanding an answer.

Yasmin looked at him intently, sighing again. “I can’t talk to you now; you’re too worked up. Why don’t you rest? Or return to Yudonia?”

Ross wheeled his chair toward her, blocking her path. “I’m not going anywhere, Mom. No drug can grant you immortality. Fred lied to you. How can you lie to yourself?”

“What the hell are you doing, Ross?” the queen snapped.

Rick hurried in, positioning himself between Ross and Yasmin. “Please watch your attitude, Your Highness.”

“Who the hell do you think you are to talk to me like that?” Ross glared at Rick. After a moment's consideration, he scoffed. “Mom, is he your new boyfriend?”

“What did you say?!” she roared.

“Aren’t you afraid he’ll become like Fred?” he taunted.

“Ross, watch your mouth!” Yasmin’s temper flared.

“I can watch my mouth, but can you watch your behavior?” Ross countered, unyielding.

“For God’s sake!” Yasmin pointed at him, breathing heavily. “Lock him up and send him back to Yudonia tomorrow!”

“If you send me back, I’ll expose everything you’ve done. You might as well kill me!” Ross shouted.

“Shut up!” Yasmin gripped the wheelchair armrest, bending over to catch her breath.