Go through the alley

Still harboring some reservations, but trusting that Ophelia must know what she's talking about, Stewart follows her lead and walks with her toward the dark alley. He turns toward his brother and says, "Keep your eyes peeled. I don't like the looks of this area."

Duncan is more interested in keeping Lucy's attention, however, and he barely gives a glance at the approaching alley. With his eyes focused on Lucy, he answers his brother, saying, "Not to worry... I'm quite an expert in squeezing into tight, dark places, and it always ends up being a very pleasant experience for any lady who is lucky enough to be present."

Stewart rolls his eyes and looks straight ahead, cautious for any suspicious developments.

The party is about halfway through the alley, and Stewart is just beginning to relax, when he hears sounds from his right and left, simultaneously. Before he can react, arms grab him from both sides, reaching from doorways that remained obscured by the darkness. He tries to resist, but immediately feels something **** over his mouth and nose.

He breathes in a sharp-smelling fragrance and tries to hold his breath, but whatever has invaded his nostrils is already starting to have a numbing effect on his consciousness.

Dimly, he is aware of the sound of struggle nearby, and he hears Duncan's muffled curses and threats against their attackers. The king makes one last valiant attempt to ward off the unseen assailants before the darkness of the alley invades his thoughts, and he passes out in the arms of his subduers.

*****

Stewart gradually regains consciousness. The first thing he notices is the oppressive bag over his head, blocking out all light and making breathing difficult. The second thing he notices is the binding that ties his wrists together behind his back and joins his ankles together.

He can tell that wherever he is, he is not alone. Muffled voices reach his ears that he could probably make out if he concentrates well enough.

The outraged king's head is throbbing, and he is filled with anger and no small measure of fear as he wonders what is about to become of him.