| “You really think you are going to pass as a buzzard?” Dan asked doubtfully. “Very regal for being a buzzard. Eh, no offense Buzzy.” A long sigh. “I guess I cannot be angry at you for pointing out the obvious.” Buzzy replied. “Compared to my much weaker chin and lesser beak, there is no denying that Ozzy will not pass close inspection if he is going to claim to be one of my relatives.” “You see! Right there is your difference. It is a shame really. One stays somber and dedicated to the family business while the other doesn’t stay sober and has no focus toward tradition or passion for the job. Takes a toll on the physical as well as the noggin’.” Ozzy knocked his fist against the side of his head. “See how the one is a good-looking, strapping lad that any parent would be proud to claim.” Then he pointed at Buzzy who seemed to shrink a little. “The other, … a withdrawn, beady-eyed little creepster that has no balance for walking and isn’t much better when in flight.” Ozzy flexes his muscle on one wing and pats Buzzy on the head with the other. “We’ll sell the con. Right Buzz?” “Sure. But you didn’t have to sound so … like I am such a bad buzzard. ‘Beady-eyed’ was definitely uncalled for: I’m no more beady-eyed than any other buzzard or vulture.” Buzzy looked around the group. Every one was doing something to avoid answering him on that subject. “Well? Aren’t I?” Dan shuffled his weight uncomfortably but then smiled and said, “Buzzy, you not only are the only buzzard, but are the only bird, flighted or otherwise, that I have ever seen that has a wondering eye. Now I don’t know if that counts as beady, but it sure has strange all to itself.” “Dam Duck!” Buzzy said, and then he almost disappeared into the shadows. Ozzy gave another second to make sure Buzzy was through and then said, “The plan will be for me and Buzzy to try and reach the Dark Queen, if successful we will pitch the whole be young and start fresh concept to her. If she is agreeable, which I am certain she will SAY she is agreeable, then I will signal for Splash to do his thing. Anna you stay in character! Do not let her know you are who you are. We will take care of everything.” “Fair enough.” Anna agreed. “Lets get started.” next page |  |