When Nick was out of hearing distance, the Queen eyed Counselor Meina curiously. "Yes counselor?"
"I have been thinking and feel that the boy does not deserve to die. He looks pretty harmless."
"But you agreed that he was a decoy from the U.S.," the Queen remembered what Meina said to her that morning. "Perhaps he himself bears me no ill will, but by keeping him here, that will divert our attention and focus. He could be a spy."
"Actually, I have a better plan," the counselor responded.
"Really?" the Queen asked skeptically.
"How about we pretend that we are involved with the boy, or at least, you are. Meanwhile, the board of counselors will keep an eye out on the U.S. If they make a move, we shall destroy them. But we first need to know how much artillery they have and who is behind them so that we will destroy this rebellion to its very roots." The Queen thought hard, unconvinced.
"Plus," the counselor continued, "he's your age. He should be good entertainment for you. You do need a little friend to keep you company and relieve some of your stress. Ever since you claimed the throne at age 15, you have missed out on much of your youth." The counselor sounded sympathetic and understanding, but to the Queen, her sympathy meant nothing. It was her words that resonated in the Queen's mind.
At these words, the Queen softened. Strangely, she wanted to give into her feelings, but she still felt that it was wrong. Nick Carter should not be given a second chance. His death could only do good.
"Very well." 'What did she just say?' The Queen was in shock. Did she just agree with the counselor? That was her heart speaking, not her mind. She remained silent for a long period of time when the counselor asked to be dismissed, pleased with the results.
On her way out, Counselor Meina handed the guard a gold nugget. "Good job," she smiled wickedly. Everything was just perfect.
The board of counselors had never liked the Queen. She was too young and held too much power, power which she didn't deserve. The boy was just perfect. The Queen's lust will be her own undoing. Meina rejoiced in how easily the Queen gave in. She could tell that Feya had already had a weak spot for the boy. He was, in fact, a very clever gift. Leave it to those useless Americans to think of such a creative present.
As Meina walked away from Feya's room, she caught sight of the boy standing across the hallway, lost in his own minuscule world. She stared at him intently. Maybe once everything was over, she might let the boy live. He looked rather angelic. Meina smiled wickedly to herself. Actually, she had already planned out what was to become of the boy.