Okay, I wrote this a looooong time ago, but decided to post it up.
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It was a lengthy walk back to the gang's permanent camp, leaving the group in a comfortable silence. Few words were shared, mostly on Much's behalf as he scolded Robin for the dangerous plan, one if not for Marian's intervention, would have left him dead. Of course, as usual, Robin brushed off these worries, drifting into his own thoughts, specifically those relating to the moment shared by Marian and Guy, one he wished to purge from his mind.
Farther behind the group, Carter lagged, his own thoughts racing as he contemplated his next action. He longed to revisit his brother's grave, his mind now clear with the truth, but something held him back, a thought that there was something else he needed to do. Unlike Much, Carter had found Robin's plan brilliant and enjoyed his part despite the number of guards they needed to avoid just to reach the freedom of the forest. There was an excitement, one that was unlike that of a kill, one that Carter found truly enjoyable.
A day before, Carter's life consisted of killing, for fun, for money, and for the hope of one day meeting the infamous Robin of Locksley, the one who murdered his brother. But now, the truth staring at him boldly, Carter found that he had little anger left. The fury that had plagued him after the news of his brother's death now dim, barely noticeable as he trekked through the forest.
"We'll be needing to get you a horse." Only slightly surprised, Carter glanced to his side to see Robin who had apparently slowed down to reach his pace.
"A horse?" Only a second after these words had left his lips did Carter realize what Robin was implying.
"Of course," he added quickly, casting his eyes to the surrounding trees. "A horse."
"We should be able to buy one from a villager with the bounty money. Hopefully well enough to take you where you're heading," stated Robin, a clear cut order laced under a friendly offer, one that Carter caught early, tossing it over in his head. The blond nodded slightly and Robin returned it with a smile before quickening his pace to catch up with the rest of his men.
It was that sight, that of Robin Hood jogging to join up with his fellow outlaws, that prompted Carter to call out.
"Robin." The infamous brunette turned to give Carter a questioning look and only a bit ahead did Much stop to turn as well. Carter pursed his lips, his new idea swimming nervously in his head as he approached the outlaw.
"Yes?" asked Robin, though not impatiently as he shifted his weight, seemingly getting comfortable in his spot. Carter was not sure exactly what led him to his decision. It might have been the camaraderie that was so fervent amongst this group of outlaws, maybe the cause for which they had given up all comforts for, or, the small feeling that there was something more he could do. It could've been all of these reasons, but whatever the case, a decision had been made.
"I know this is sudden, but I would be honored if you allowed me to join in your cause." It was simple, evenly said in the same casual voice that Carter not so long ago used to ask if killing was still prohibited on Robin's mission. Almost amused, Robin of Locksley give Carter a slight grin and raised his eyebrows. Behind him, as the rest of the lot carry on through Sherwood, Much stood close by, his mouth hanging open as if to protest.
"Well," started Robin, the grin never leaving his face, "this is a bit of a surprise. Why the sudden interest in becoming an outlaw?" Carter didn't hesitate, but he didn't speak immediately as such a nervous liar would.
His words were carefully picked and he stared right into Robin's eyes, claiming, "What you showed me before, that village, I…" He paused, his true feelings brushed away as a lie came spouting out as truthfully as a bounty hunter could tell.
"I've never seen the consequences of my, of my actions. But today, you showed me, you…freed me." Robin clearly understood, slightly nodding as he gave Carter a solemn look. Whether or not the outlaw trusted him, Carter was unsure of, but soon his question was answered.
"I understand friend. You're welcome to stay as long as you wish," said Robin calmly, no real expression in his voice.
"Please Robin, do not think of me as a guest, I wish to fight alongside you, for the people," explained Carter, wondering if he was overdoing his lie. He did want to stay truthfully, for what reason he could not surely grasp himself. There was a pause, and just for a moment, Carter thought Robin would reject his offer.
"Of course, welcome my friend." This response was less leader and more friend as Robin's grin returned and he placed a hand on Carter's shoulder, ushering him to move forward. Carter returned Robin's expression with a smile of gratitude, knowing that he was making the right decision. He was not a man to always doubt and worry.
Much, unfortunately, was. As the two neared him, the manservant's gape was clearly evident.
"I'm sorry, did you just say he was joining us?" sputtered out Much as Robin moved alongside him. Carter gave Much an amused smile before turning to nod politely at Robin before moving ahead, allowing the pair some privacy.
"Yeah," replied Robin casually, not even glancing at Much. The bandana wearing outlaw sped up to walk a bit ahead of Robin, twisting his body so he could look his leader in the face.
"Master, surely this is a trick, who knows when he'll decide to kill you!" said Much, not really caring if Carter heard him or not.
"Much," started Robin, finally glancing at the nervous man, "If Carter wanted to kill me, he would've done so at the castle."
"So, he might change his mind, don't let me remind you that he ambushed us, then tied us up, then-"
"Much," broke in Robin, stopping placing his hands to his hips. Much stopped abruptly as well, his mouth hanging open as his eyes clearly emanated the anger and fear he felt at the prospect of a bounty hunter in their band of outlaws.
"I trust Carter. He only went after me because of his brother, but now he knows the truth. He didn't kill me at Nottingham when I was at my most vulnerable and he won't try to kill me at any other time," stated Robin clearly, looking at Much with a slightly serious expression, one that hinted the unofficial cook should drop the subject. For once, Much seemed to get the message and fumed, crossing his arms and stalking off, but not before giving Robin a look of betrayal. Seeing Much walk briskly by the slow paced Carter, Robin sighed and shook his head.
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How will the story change with Carter's presence? I have no idea, but I do know that I love Carter's character. I have no idea if I'll continue, BUT you never know, reviews could change my mind. -hinthintnudgenudge- ;D