A Traitor Revealed

"Carola told you that the dragon hates your guts," Belinda said to Astra. "That's what she naturally assumed. But it's actually me who hates your guts. It isn't fair that you should be Mother's heir, rather than me. I'd be far better than you as queen - better than Mother too come to that. The dragon has said that when he's conquered Aquilaria, he'll put me on the throne, so naturally I've been helping him draw up his invasion plans. And suggesting new humiliations for you as well. The ankle chain that I wear is just for show. I can take it off whenever I want. I may as well do so now, now that the charade is over."

Astra stepped forward threateningly, but she was halted by her chains before she had taken more than a couple of paces. "Temper, temper, sister," Belinda said. "We could always add a few more chains, you know."

"You're a fool, Belinda," Astra said. "If the dragon succeeds in putting you on the throne, you'll be no more than a puppet."

"Listen to her," Carola said. "You know that she's right."

"Don't side with her, Carola. Not unless you want to be naked too and helping her to clean the privies. And then there's the stables that will need mucking out. But if you'll help us, then you can be my second in command."

1. Carola falls silent.
2. Carola tries to attack Belinda.

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