| The group entered the castle which was quiet for the most part because it was so late at night or early in the morning. Both descriptions would have been correct. There were a few soldiers, most likely guards, moving about. Carts lined the entrance which most likely belonged to vendors which would arrive shortly and by morning they would have whatever they were selling all out for shoppers to view. Those selling food would have their items in sacks ready to be carried away. Jewelry of no great value, and clothing, would also be available. For now however it was an empty castle entrance. Dan was cut loose and allowed to disappear to find some place to stay hidden until the fireworks started. He hoped it wouldn’t come to that but his common sense expected at least that much commotion and likely a lot more. Anna and Splash also went their separate way. The two sought out a spot that would be out of the way of the main foot traffic and settled in together. That left Ozzy and Buzzy to get things started. “I figure we have about two hours to located the Dark Queen and pitch her the trade of youth for power.” Buzzy whispered. “Maybe less. Where do you want to start looking?” “She’ll be in the sleeping quarters right about now. I would guess that will be whatever room or hallway that has guards stationed outside. Are you thinking to just walk right in and take out the guards? They certainly are not going to be opening any doors for us.” Ozzy replied. The two buzzards, one real, one disguised, kept walking through the castle until Buzzy suddenly whispered, “There! That’s got to be the hallway leading to the queen’s sleeping quarters.” Both looked down the hallway and could see there were two guards stationed just outside a door which most likely housed the queen. next page |  |