16The following day, the gang went to Nottingham. They managed to sneak in past the guards at the gate as a delivery was being made for the kitchen. Robin and Allan went towards the north tower while the rest of the gang spread themselves out in various spots. In one of the alleyways, Robin and Allan surprised two guards and knocked them out. They slid into the uniforms so as to get about easier through the castle. As they were lurking about, they overheard two servants coming down the hall. They were pushing a cart with a covered tray. As luck would have it, they were headed to Marian's room with her morning meal. They followed the women to their destination. Two guards stood watch outside the door. They allowed only one of the women entrance to the room. The tray was left and the women retreated back towards the kitchen area.
Robin elbowed Allan and said, " Come on. "
They headed toward the two guards. " Oy! Morning, gents. We're here to relieve you. Gisbourne says to rest up and return after the mid-day meal.
The taller of the two guards stated, " Don't forget only meals go in and out and no one
is allowed to visit. "
" Got it. ", replied Allan.
After the guards rounded the corner, Robin ordered, " Stay here. Keep an eye out. Whistle if someone comes. "
Robin knocked on the door and walked in. He saw Marian sitting on a ledge looking out the window. Without turning, she said, " Go ahead and take the tray. I am not hungry. "
" So many starving people. T'would be unfortunate to waste such a fine meal. "
As she turned towards the voice, Robin removed his helmet and flashed a huge grin her direction. She stood and quickly walked across the room. She threw her arms around Robin's neck and he in turn wrapped his tightly around her waist.
" Oh, Robin.", she cried.
" Are you all right? "
" I am not hurt. ", she began. " But, my father…". Her eyes filled with tears and she could not continue.
Robin wiped a tear away with his thumb. Then he said, " Knighton Hall in gone. But your father is well. "
She looked at him intently as he smiled and shook his head yes.
" But, I was told he died in the fire. There is a grave. "
" I know. I am sorry you had to be told that. I thought if the sheriff believed Edward were dead, they could not use his life to force you into doing things you did not wish to do. But, the truth is, we have him hidden away. He is well. "
Marian covered her mouth with her hand and tears flowed down her face. " Oh, Robin… I do not know how to thank you. "
" Come on. Allan is outside. We are here to get you out and back to your father. "
" Robin, I have heard the sheriff and Guy talking. There is something going on. There is another scheme."
" Do you know what it is? "
" Not really. "
" Let's get out of here and we will figure it out. "
" Robin. If they believe my father is dead. And they believe I am no threat under watch. I do not believe they have plans to hurt me. "
" What are you getting at? ", asked Robin suspiciously.
" What if I continue to stay here in the castle. I can be a spy and listen to whatever is going on. I can let you know what is happening. "
" I don't think so. It is too dangerous for you to stay here. "
" They think they have me where I can do no damage. I do not believe I am in any danger. "
" Marian, you do not have to do this. "
" We have to stop the sheriff and his plans. None of them can be of any good. I do not have a home to return to. They believe I do not have a father to return to. I can help you if I stay and listen. "
" Why can't life ever be easy? ", sighed Robin.
" What? "
" Life. Why can it not ever be easy? " When we were younger, all we wanted was to marry, live at Locksley, and raise a family. "
" Life is a journey. There are twists and turns everywhere. " , she said sadly. " This has not changed, however. " She smiled as she placed her hand on his cheek and gave him a sweet, loving kiss. She pulled back and smiled at him again. Robin returned the smile and pulled her back to him for another kiss.
When they stopped, she said, " Robin, let me do what I can to help. "
" Are you sure? "
" Yes. "
" I will come or send someone here every day. We will find some way to check on you every day. If you ever want out, all you have to do is ask. "
" I will be fine. You will look after my father? "
" Of course. You will be careful? "
" Of course. You should go. You do not want to be caught. It will do me no good to have you caught. ", she teased.
" I love you. ", said Robin seriously.
" And I you. Now, GO. "
With that, they embraced and kissed one last time. As Robin walked towards the door, he turned and gave her another glance. He winked and blew her a kiss and exited the room.
" Where's Marian? ", asked Allan.
" New plan. ", replied Robin.
They waited at the door for the guards to relieve them at mid-day. When they arrived, Robin and Allan left the tower, gathered the rest of the gang, and headed back to camp.
Robin didn't like the new plan. But, for now, it was the best they could do. He knew Marian could take care of herself, but that didn't stop the heavy feeling he carried in his heart. One day, he thought, life will get easier.
The End