The dangerous plan had been drawn, everything was set in motion ahead of its commencing.
Hildegard and Otto moved through the castle separately for the rest of the afternoon, careful not to look at each other too long, careful not to draw unwanted attention.
Every servant who passed them seemed louder, every guard more watchful, every footstep heavier with threat.
It seemed as though for a split second they could read their minds but successfully, they went past the day without any confrontations.
Finally the sun bled into the horizon and disappeared bringing darkness.
Soon the palace torches flickered to life.
It was time.
Nine O'clock.
The hour the palace grew quiet, but not asleep.
The hour where conversation dimmed to whispers and shadows stretched long across the walls.
The hour when the guards would be too busy with their meals to make much notice of anytime.
The perfect time.
Hildegard slipped into her room first and shut the door with a soft click.
