Chapter V – Side

''And you are 100 percent sure that you saw this?''

''Yes your Majesty. She was hugging the crown prince.''

''Well, seems like she has finally made her move. Stay there and gather information. I'll reward you heavenly.''

As the person hurried out, now being the owner of a pouch of gold coins, ran along the corridor. 

'I am sorry. I just don't like how you betrayed us. How could you leave our country, to those barbarians? I'll never forgive you!'

And as the door shut in the room, a lady clothed in an elegant yellow dress spoke up.

''We must be careful. From now on we might have to choose a side.''

''I know. I agree. What do you say?''

The woman in the purple dress now glanced at the woman in the navy-blue dress. 

''I presume we should.''

The three were sipping their teas, thinking about the newly developed situation.

''Well, we just have to make sure we don't lose power. And even if she hugged the prince, this means nothing. His mother is still the Ruby Empress. Blood is thicker then water.''

''You are right. But what if he chooses to support Emerald? I am not convinced.''

The woman in the blue dress answered the woman in the yellow dress.

''I would still hold to her majesty the Ruby Empress. She has the backing of the emperor after all.

The Lady in the purple dress. After that the two other ladies exchanged a swift look. 

On nodded her head, as the other one poke up.

''You are right, lets side with Ruby.''

The three looked content, and enjoys their cups of tea until disporting after a long conversation.

The woman in the blue dress left first, leaving the other two free to talk. As she turned away, and went out of the castle she quickened her pace and strode forth.

'Not good. What if they want to change sides? I have to prevent this.'

The woman in the blue dress hurried over to the ruby palace, where she was greeted with a happy welcome by the Empress herself.

''I greet you Majesty, the Ruby.''

''I receive your good words. Please raise your head, Lapis.''

The woman raised her head and smirked.

''I have news to tell.''

''Very well. Then let's head in, and chatter about with a warm cup of tea.''

The empress glanced at her butler who immediately went away.

''It's my pleasure.''

****

After being back in her chambers, Athena flopped down. And sighted a loud and long sight.

'What should I do now? How should I play?'

She agonised over this, cause in reality she had no Idea what and how she should help Noah. 

'At first I will need his trust.'

There was just one problem. She knew out of the book how difficult it was for him to trust. She understood. His past had been filled with betrayal and selfish power-lust.

'I don't think it is enough to juts be nice to him. And then there is this other problem.'

'My people. I have to keep them from harm.'