From that point on Mango and Cardinal met up everyday. Going down a list of dragons who might be against the Royal Family.

  “Why are you spending so much time with… HER?” Growled Ste

  “Need I remind you brother that you are as lowly as that guard?” Roared Cardinal, flicking her tail to a nearby guard who quickly took her leave. “I will tell you of occurrences pertaining to you. As of yet this does not.”

  “Sister, she killed Swallow. How do you know she won't kill you next? At least accept a guard.”

  “I'm not so sure she did. As for the rest, it is not your pce to question.”

  “Yes your majesty.” Ste walked out of the throne room, a hiss welled in his throat.

  With an exasperated sigh Cardinal checked the fme silk scroll that her and Mango had put together. Dragons ranging from commoners to high guards were there and it put into perspective just how many enemies a royal has. What made it worse was that the only dragon she knew was there for her was currently in her dungeons and she had no proof that Mango should be freed. Her sleep at night was riddled with nightmares of betrayal and treason.

  “Your majesty!” Mango's orange scales lightened to a sunny yellow with pink flecks, “you look exhausted,” she'd realize with a concerned step towards the bars.

  Out from behind Cardinal a guard lept toward the bars to separate the two only backing away when Cardinal gave him a stern gnce. He went back and grabbed the moose that was brought for them to share over conversation and gave a bow to the queen before flying out of the dungeon in a hast.

  Cardinal entered the cell and sat down, her maroon scales glowing with embers. “Mango, you-” she shook her head “ have you found any motive for any of the dragons on the scroll?”

  “Besides the obvious, new blood on the throne, I can only chalk it up to rage.” Mango sighed “what I don't understand is why they didn't choose your brother, he has no fire and everyone knows we despise each other. He's the obvious choice.”

  “What would killing him do?”

  “Your majesty, forgive my bluntness but have you traded your brain for a pineapple? If he has a daughter she will be your successor, now that swallow…”

  Cardinal flicked her tail in mock disdain at the insult but her eyes reflected her understanding. “Yes he would be an obvious choice.”

  “Cardinal!” Ste roared “you are needed in the throne room!”

  “Ok!” Cardinal turned to face Mango “We will figure this out.”

  “Bye Card- your majesty.” Mango purred, pink flecks quickly shifting to dark purple.

  “You are not my prisoner, and… I miss you. Call me Cardinal.” She'd say before quickly walking out and flying into the throne room.