105On the Way to an Easier Life
Chapter 39
The following morning, the gang met in the Great Hall for breakfast. Djaq and Will were there early. They were holding hands when Robin and Marian came in. Robin smiled and nudged Marian with his elbow to look. Will glanced up to see them both smiling back at him.
"Something you want to share with us, Will Scarlett?"
"Well, yes", he said while sharing a grin with Djaq. "Djaq has agreed to be my wife", he announced happily.
Marian moved to hug them both. "That is wonderful news!"
"Congratulations", Robin said to them as he also gave each of them a hug.
The rest of the gang filed in and the good news was shared with all. After they had eaten, and things had settled down, Robin stood up and faced his friends. He began to talk.
"Friends,…. as you know, changes are happening here quickly. As of today, I am the new sheriff." He shyly looked down as they all applauded and whistled to let him know of their absolute delight and support. "All right", he grinned. "With that, I intend to make a few changes of my own." He turned and looked at Much, "First of all, Much, my friend, my companion… You have gone above and beyond any duty or oath you swore to me. I surely would not be here, alive, today were it not for you. So, as promised, what seems to have been so long ago, I hereby grant you the house and grounds of Bonchurch." The gang all applauded. "You are to be made Earl and will be one of the nobles to whom I confide on the Council of Nobles."
"Master… Thank you!"
"Much, do not call me Master. Never again. You deserve this…. if for nothing else, putting up with me for all these years. Do you hear?"
"Yes, Robin", he stated proudly while the rest clapped him on the back and gave their congratulations.
"I'm not finished. In light of this morning's announcement, I will entrust the house and grounds of Merton to Will and Djaq. There has not been a replacement since the death of Lord Merton . It will be a wonderful place for you to raise your family."
"Thank you, Robin", said Will. Djaq hugged him gratefully.
"John and Allan", Robin continued, "I seem to be in need of someone to train soldiers and be my Master at Arms. I am asking for you both to be my second in command. I trust each of you with my life, the lands, and overseeing that all the villages will continue to receive what they need. They will still need food and supplies. We will use soldiers to help rebuild and protect what is theirs. I would ask that you both live here in the castle and be in charge of the guard and oversee any secret missions there may be for me or for King Richard. Of course, you are free to say no, if there is something you would rather do. I just want you all to be as happy as I am." He then turned and flashed a big smile at Marian.
They all graciously accepted their new posts. All were thankful that they were part of Robin Hood's gang. As time went on, they adapted from living life in the forest to life in a home or the castle. Life was slowly becoming easier to live.
Author's note….. there is only one chapter left, the Epilogue.