It was only a short way to the castle gate, though Lucy's shyness at her current state made it feel longer.
The drawbridge was down, but two guards watched the gate, only allowing anyone entry if they had permission. Lucy was hoping she could get it.
"Halt." A guard addressed Lucy as she approached. "State your business."
Don't mess this up, Lucy thought. "Excuse me, sir. I would like to speak with a Royal Sorcerer regarding the recent bandit attack..."
"Hey, is she the one?" Another guard said, "She had brown hair and freckles, right?"
The first guard nodded. "Now that you mention it... Yeah. That may be her. I'll get a Sorcerer."
"Try to get Alfador first! He's the only one without an attitude." The second guard said, "Right, can I have your name?"
"Lucy, sir." Lucy nodded her head.
"Lucy..." The guard nodded. "Lovely name. Are you the one who put down those bandits?"
Lucy opened her mouth to speak when someone emerged from the castle gateway...
