𝐂𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐙𝐄 ＃ YOUR THRONE. [✓]

CHAPTER 19: THORNS

"WILL YOU BE A THORN TO MY SIDE, or his?" Medea asks firmly, as I fiddled with my own fingers. "I can understand where your reluctance is coming from since Eros is your brother."

"But just know, that more innocent people will perish if you simply leave him be." Medea states, as I stared into her brilliant purple hues. "I know where my loyalty sides,"

"My people." I mumbled, biting my lower lip briefly. "I will always be on the side where the citizens, the people of this very empire is safe. So I, look forward to working with you once more Medea.."

The edge of Medea's lip twitched upward, into a small expecting smile. "I can assure you that I will be trying my best for them to be safe, Ria.."

"You are the second in-line for the throne, meaning if Eros was to be ousted from his position you will be the next sovereign." Medea leaned against the cushioned chair as she continues, "You can start by gathering the favor of aristocrats and the people. Next is, you must have a preceding house support you from behind."

"One of the pillars supporting the empire or so, other than me. Your mother's house, the noble Frienza clan is enough considering how Eros has the temple supporting him. They are also vital in our future plans, you will need them on your side." Medea adds, as she seems to ponder in thought. "I know many opportunities will arise in the future for us to discuss with each other."

"So you won't have to worry about communication. Right, are you getting closer to Psyche?" Medea unexpectedly questions. "Ah, quite."

"I figured that she's a bright girl, so I thought you will enjoy her company." Medea murmurs, as I slowly nodded. "Certainly, though she seems a bit too.. enthusiastic."

A low chuckle left Medea's throat, before humming. "Agreed, but I suppose it's one of her charms." Medea adds, heaving a small sigh.

"Do start working on having the Frienza clan on your side. Doesn't really matter how you do it, so I shall leave those matters up to you." Medea chimes, as she stood up gracefully after finishing her cup of tea.

"Leaving already?" I arched a brow at her, as she promptly nods. "Of course, I must manage my time properly as the Duchess. With that, I shall take my leave."

"I look forward to our next meeting, Your Highness." Medea bows her head briefly in doing a curtsy, before leaving the lounging room.

I exhaled a whiff of air I didn't know I was holding, leaning back on the cushioned chair as I closed my eyes. 'I should get to work.. I mustn't delay my plans any longer.'

"Your Highness, I have something to inform you." Clara's voice stated behind the door, as she knocked twice. "Come inside, Clara."

She entered the room, as Clara closed the door after. "Dame Grand Cross Achiora has left the palace, Her Eminence asked me to thank you for the warm hospitality."

"Oh, that was no problem.. is that all?" I inquired, opening my eyes to glimpse at Clara. "Yes, Your Highness."

"You and Eric should prepare some clothes, we will be visiting my Grandmother's manor tomorrow." I ordered promptly, sitting up properly as Clara nods. "I shall inform him, Your Highness."

-

ASTERIA GLANCES AROUND , the interior of the manor. It consisted of traditional and ornate decorations all around the place, and has a castle-like structure. Asteria was quite familiar with it.

She has visited the manor a few times during her childhood, together with the empress. "Greetings Your Highness, Lady Lucifella has requested me to escort you to towards your chambers."