The maids

“Oh, well, one of the maids was out doing her shopping for the lord just a short while ago. I’m certain if you looked about you could find her.” The woman smiled, “She’s such a sweet thing, I’m certain she would deliver your message for you.”

Kelly put a hand to his chin. Well, it was a lead. This maid could be his best bet in slipping inside. She would know the inner layout and the patrols of guards too! Yes, this would do nicely.

Kelly bowed respectfully, giving the woman a heartfelt thanks. He turned, beginning to walk and scanning the crowd for a maid.

He found her by a produce stand, having just completed her purchase and adjusting her tiny glasses.

“Do you need a hand, miss?” Kelly asked, leaning forward and extending a hand.

The girl, probably the same ages as him, paused, flipping her braid over her shoulder.

“Oh. Um…that’s very kind of you, but I’m actually headed back to the castle…”

Kelly shook his head with a smile. “It’s quite alright, I have business there as well. Is this ok?” He moved to the largest bag of veggies and lifted it.

The maid relented and soon the pair found themselves headed up the hill towards Rosenburg Castle. Her name was Kimberly, apparently, and she was insistent on expressing her thanks for Kelly’s help.

As they approached the gates, Kelly turned to her. “Actually, there is something you can do, if it’s ok. I need to get in the castle. I have a message for your lord that concerns his safety, but I’m just a simple squire. My captain sent me so we wouldn’t alert those who might harm him, but I don’t know if he’ll just see me like this.”

Kimberly’s eyes studied him carefully behind her glasses. “…Are you telling the truth?”

Kelly nodded solemnly. “Upon my honor as a future Knight, I swear.”

Kimberly stared intensely at his expression for a second, then shifted her gaze towards the castle.

“…Ok then. I have a plan.”