Sweetly Stirred part 2

By Leah, aka snuffles the thunder arse

Summary

A secret is revealed.

Disclaimer

I do not own a thing! Crap!

That is so sad!

Rated PG 15 for language, violence and sexual content

Knighton Hall

Barely pulling his filly to a halt, Guy flung himself off the stumbling equines back.

"Guy, what is this?" Marian demanded, irritated that Vasey's captain was so incensed for reasons unbeknownst to her. "I don't understand."

"Your father owes me an explanation," Guy told her coldly, tethering his tired, lathered mount. "I am going to do whatever it takes to get it."

Edward was helping himself to a goblet of mead when the door burst open.

"Sir Guy!" he cried dropping the gold goblet, splashing the honey coloured contents to the floor. "What is this?"

Nostrils flaring, Gisborne advanced, roughly grabbing the frightened man by the scruff of his neck.

"Why did you do it?" he thundered monstrously.

"Guy!" Marian cried, slamming the door behind her. "Release him!"

Ignoring the maiden's plea, Guy unsheathed a wicked looking claw shaped dagger, pressing the tip of the blade against Edward's Adam's apple.

"You tell me now, old man," he spat, "Or I'll gut you like the sodding pig you are!"

"Guy!"

"Leave it!" Guy bellowed, not looking at her. "He owes me!"

An arrow shot past him, narrowly missing his cheek, it was just enough to make him let go of Sir Edward.

"You missed," he growled.

Lowering her bow, the girl glared acidly at him then turned her gaze to her parent.

"Sit down, father," she murmured.

"Thank you, Marian," the former sheriff whispered, face white as fresh snow.

"Tell me," Guy growled, folding his arms across his chest.

Edward took a deep, shaking breath.

"Marian, go upstairs."

"No," Guy insisted. "Marian stays. She has a right to hear this as well."

Anxious, Marian sat down beside her father, waiting with wide eyes.

Flash back, Knighton Hall, two years before the burning down of Gisborne manor

"Oh Kate, there was no falsehood on your part! She is a beautiful child!" cried the lady Ghislaine of Gisborne Manor.

The lady Katherine, or Kate, of Knighton Hall smiled warmly in return then looked down at her precious baby, suckling contented pleasure upon her teat.

"Yes, she is," the noble woman agreed. "I know my dear Edward wanted a boy, but I am so secretly delighted, Ghislaine."

"What are you going to call her?"

"Marian Elizabeth," the lady Kate informed proudly. "Marian, for Edward's mother, Elizabeth, for mine."

"Both beautiful names," Ghislaine agreed.

Gisborne Manor

A few months later Kate was strong enough to visit Ghislaine.

"Edward is busy," she explained to the French beauty. "He told me last night that he is most likely to be offered the position of sheriff."

"Mon Dieu! I am so very happy for you!" Ghislaine exclaimed excitedly. "Sit down, Mon Ami! Sit down! I will have a servant fetch Guy and Isabella then we can all celebrate the news!"

"Before you do that, Ghislaine, there is something I wish to tell you."

Instantly intrigued, Ghislaine nodded, taking a place beside her dearest friend on the chaise lounge.

"I have spoken with Edward and we both believe that Marian and your son would be a good match. I know Sir Malcolm wanted to unite his son, Robin with our daughter but …" she hesitated.

"Mon Ange, go on," lady Gisborne encouraged.

"Well … I do not think Robin would make a good husband for Marian. He is flighty and often very arrogant."

Kate bit her lip, considering her words.

"I am aware that he is still quite young but with all honesty I think your Guy is the better choice. True, he can be rather cold and firm at times for one so young, but there is a maturity about him I have not seen in any youth for a very long time. I think, Ghislaine, your son is one in a million."

Marian, who had been sleeping soundly, opened her eyes and cooed at Ghislaine.

The French woman reached out, touching her cheek.

"He gets that from his father," she murmured ruefully. "Ah, Roger. He was so beautiful! How I miss him!"

"There has not been any word? Oh my dear Ghislaine!"

Waving a hand dismissively, the lovely noble took in a deep breath, steadying herself.

Now was not a time for grieving.

There was a squeal and a mutter.

She smiled.

Her children had returned.

"Guy, Isabella, come and see!" she called over her shoulder.

A lanky thirteen-year-old boy with unruly black hair and alluring grey/blue eyes timidly entered the chamber.

Shyly clutching his hand was an emaciated, brown haired eleven-year-old girl.

"Oh little Isabella! How you've grown!" Kate gasped upon seeing the maiden. She looked to Guy and smiled. "Still as handsome as ever, Master Guy," she teased playfully, extending her hand to him.

The youth bowed over it politely, cheeks colouring.

"Milady," he murmured then pressed his lips against her white knuckles.

"Guy, Kate has brought her daughter over," his mother informed proudly.

"Marian?" Guy asked.

"Yes," Kate answered proudly. "Here," she said, holding her offspring out to him. "Hold her."

"I don't know-"

"Hush my lad, it's easy," Kate told him, blue eyes sparkling gaily. "I'm sure you held your sister when she was a babe?"

"I cannot recall, milady. It was a long time ago."

"I shall help you," Kate slowly rose to her feet. "Now," she said kindly. "You have to cradle her, support her head. Understand?"

Guy nodded.

Gently, carefully, Kate passed her daughter to the youth, smiling as he cradled the infant in his arms.

"See," she said triumphantly. "You can hold a baby."

Guy could not hear her. He was lost. Blissfully lost in the huge blue eyes of the solemn child.

'Can you see inside my soul, mon ange?' he wondered, stroking his finger along the chubby pink cheek. 'You are most enchanting,'

"She likes you," Kate remarked.

Guy broke from the trance and smiled awkwardly.

"She has the most extraordinary eyes," he admitted waspishly.

Carefully, he returned little Marian back to Kate.

"Thank you, milady," he said, his face hot and colouring. "Your daughter is indeed lovely."

Kate beamed.

"I'm glad you believe so, Guy. For when my little girl is older, she may be your wife."

Guy's mouth dropped open.

"My wife?" he echoed.

His face became even hotter.

"There are a few things to settle," Ghislaine said whilst moving to stand with him, putting her arm around his shoulder. "But Kate and I believe you and Marian will be a good match."

Knighton Hall

Guy watched the contract being signed and listened to the murmurs of agreement.

He felt a swell of … Pride?

Yes, pride.

This enchanting creature was now his to care for. To honour. To defend. And one day, perhaps even love.

Before his father had gone away, he had witnessed his parents share embraces and kisses. He could recall how doting his father had been to his mother, how every morning he would sweep her off her feet and tell her how much he loved her. That she was the queen of his heart.

'I will do that for you and more, Marian,' Guy vowed, staring into the flickering fireplace. 'I promise,'

"My son."

Gisborne turned to see his mother standing behind him with Marian in her arms.

"It is done. Come, hold your betrothed," she invited warmly, her smile dazzling.

Readily, Guy took the child from his mother.

Again, solemn, Marian stared at Guy, fat lips parted slightly, tiny nose quivering.

Guy found himself lost again. A beautiful abyss. He could fall forever and still be happy.

He touched a finger to his intended's cheek, stroking it up and down.

Cooing, the baby grasped his digit.

The youth laughed softly.

"What is it?" Ghislaine asked curiously.

"She has a strong grip."

End of flashback, Knighton Hall

"Guy," Marian whispered, face as pallid as snow, blue gaze affixed on her father. "He was my betrothed?"

"Till the fire burnt down Gisborne Manor and he and his sister fled to France, yes, Marian, he was," Edward confirmed wearily.

The girl clumsily rose from her seat, hand clutching at the loose emerald fabric of her gowns silken bodice.

"You never told me," she said softly. "Ever."

"I felt it unnecessary to do so," Sir Edward replied coldly.

Marian cupped a hand over her mouth, shaking her head in disbelief.

"But you saw fit to let her believe that Robin was to be her husband after I left!" Guy barked. Intemperate, he slammed the palm of his hand on the table. "She was supposed to be mine!"

"I never wanted you to have her!" Edward yelled, rising to his feet, gaze levelling with Gisborne's. "It was Katherine's wish, not mine! I wanted to unite Marian with Malcolm of Locksley because he was the better choice! He had more standing. What did you have? A leper for a father and a French mother who should have stayed in France where she belonged!"

Guy's lips peeled back and he gave a snarl of rage, ergo making Edward recoil in his chair.

"Malcolm?" the maiden spluttered, astonished. "But he was in his late thirties when I was born. He would have been at least the same age as the sheriff had he survived the fire."

"True," Edward agreed. "After the fire I decided to draw out a new contract that would betroth you to Robin. As Katherine had pointed out to me the day she had told me that she wished for Guy to be our son in law, Robin was too immature to understand the responsibilities of a betrothal or a wife therefore I chose to wait until you were sixteen, hoping he would have matured by then."

Marian felt as if she was going to be sick.

Gisborne shook his head in disbelief.

"The child is no better then his old man!" he sneered at the former sheriff. "A lut! A whining, shallow lut! And you would given her to either of them?"

"I would much rather her go to them then a power lusting bully like you!" Edward spat.

Nostrils flaring, Guy's hand went for his sword.

"Guy!" Marian protested, damning herself for the quivering in her voice. "Guy, please!"

The captain of Vasey's guard whirled on her.

"He deceived you! He is slandering my family!" he hissed lividly. "You are going to let him walk over us both?"

"You are making my father angry," she stated a little more calmly. "I will not let you put him in his death bed," Marian then swallowed, gathering herself. "Please leave."

Little by little, pain replaced anger. Gisborne stared at the girl for a long time, pleading through his eyes for her not to hate him, begging her to understand that he was sorry.

Too angry to speak, Marian lowered her eyes to stare at the floor.

With a swirl of black leather, the magnificent knight strode out of the hall, leaving the lady of the hall alone with her father.

After taking several deep breaths for composure, Marian called for a servant.

"Milady?" the pleasant old woman inquired, hands clasped in front of her.

"Take my father to his bed chambers then have a lad ride to Locksley Manor to inform the earl that my father and myself cannot dine with him this evening."

The woman curtsied.

"Yes milady," she said then hurried over to escort Sir Edward up the stairs.

OoO

Robin of Locksley arrived later, curiously minus his companion, Much.

"I am sorry Sir Edward is unwell," he told Marian, standing casually in the halls doorway.

"As am I," Marian replied, busying herself with the humdrum task of lighting candles. "He was looking forward to this evening."

"Marian?"

"Yes?"

The earl approached her slowly.

"Is there anything I may do for you?" he asked.

Marian shook her head.

"I am perfectly content with what I have," she told him softly. "I do not need gifts."

"I wasn't going to offer a gift."

"Oh."

"I understand that when Gisborne was courting you he offered gifts," Robin remarked.

"Sometimes."

"In exchange for …?"

Marian bit down on her tongue, fighting the urge to tell Robin that the past she had shared with Gisborne was none of his business.

"Nothing," she answered briskly. "Guy never asked anything of me."

Robin rolled his eyes, laughing.

"That can't be true," he told her, chuckling. "I've known him since we were boys. Gisborne always wanted something in return."

Marian squared her shoulders and turned to face him.

"Alright," she said brusquely. "He wanted my hand. Earlier today I learned from my father that Guy and I were betrothed before Gisborne Manor became Locksley. Guy was upset that my father did not agree to resume the arrangement."

Huffing, she turned around again, hoping Robin would change the subject.

"And what do you think?" Robin asked her back.

Marian reached for a water bucket.

"It doesn't matter what I think," she answered coolly. "Father thinks you are the better man."

She began walking toward the well.

"I am the better man, but what you think does matter." Robin contradicted whilst hurrying after her. "We're going to be husband and wife soon. I'd prefer it if you could be happy."

Marian ignored him.

"Marian, please. Just tell me something!"

'Fine,'

"I can tell you this. I will never be happy married to you. To be in a union with you would feel as if I were marrying a brother."

"But you don't have any brothers," Robin argued, smacking the flat of his hand against the stone well.

Fed up, the noble woman filled her bucket.

"Just go away, Robin," she snapped. "Your intended finds she cannot stomach the sight of you."

"But you can stomach the sight of Guy of Gisborne?" Robin asked from behind.

A wave of heat spread through Marian's body, she parted her lips as blood rushed in a passionate frenzy to her cheeks.

"Would you rather marry him?"

A laugh full of scorn burst from the girl's mouth.

Robin frowned, confused.

"Why are you laughing?"

Turning, Marian laughed again.

The sound was almost hysterical.

"Fool!" she gasped at the bamboozled earl. "I don't want to marry anyone!"

"But you don't have a choice," Robin told her, walking forward to stand before her. "It's all been arranged. There's no way out of this, Marian."

Lips curling into a snarl, the girl abruptly threw the bucket of water over him, feeling instantly satisfied when watching the young man gasp, cough and splutter.

Realising that the maiden of the hall would not be falling for his charms today, Robin slumped his shoulders in defeat and stalked off in the direction of his waiting gelding.

Nottingham Castle courtyard

"You seem to be quite taken with him."

Marian rolled her eyes and gave a heavy, annoyed, sigh.

"He told me an amusing story, that is all," she told Gisborne with the barest hint of exasperation.

"Are you forming an attachment?"

Marian almost choked.

"Guy!" she gasped at him. "Why are you-?"

"The question is simple. Are you forming an attachment to Robin of Locksley?"

Marian scowled.

"Robin is to be my husband. I think it best that I accept this rather then cause any unnecessary pain for my father."

She made a mental face of discomfort, recalling the stern, harsh lecture Edward had given her when she had returned from the well.

"So you've resigned yourself to him then?" Gisborne sneered. "I hope you are happy with your lot!"

With that, he began to walk away.

"That is unfair! I am not happy!" Marian cried after him. "I do not want to marry Robin at all but for my father's sake I must!"

Pulling to a halt, Guy bit his tongue, holding back a vicious retort.

"Please …" the girl implored, bravely standing in his way. "I am sorry for what father has done to you but my hands are tied. I must marry Robin."

"Maybe not."

Marian's lips parted in surprise.

"What do you mean by that?" she asked suspiciously.

"What if your betrothed should meet with an unfortunate accident?" Gisborne asked, folding his arms across his chest.

Marian felt a sudden chill go down her spine.

She did not know where this was going but she had a feeling …

"An accident?" she echoed warily. "Such as?"

"A fall. A fever. It could be easily arranged."

Marian's blood went cold as ice.

"You would murder him?" she whispered aghast.

"Mmmhmm."

"I forbid it!" Marian spluttered. "I absolutely forbid it! I cannot believe that you would even consider such an abominable idea!"

Guy was not to be perturbed.

"When I want something I generally reach out and take it, my lady," he told her candidly.

Marian snorted her repugnance.

"You're despicable!" she seethed and pivoted around on her heel.

Before she had a chance to leave, Guy roughly grabbed her, holding her in place against his body.

"And I want you," he breathed in her ear.

If Gisborne believed that this display of passion would send Marian rapturous with desire, he was quite mistaken.

Shrugging him off, the dark haired beauty whirled around with a face full of the utmost outrage.

"Then find some other way to get me!" she snarled at him, the venom evident in her voice. "I will not be had for the wanting, Sir Guy!"

"Marian? Where are you? The carriage is waiting!"

"I'm coming," she called.

Casting the knight a parting hateful glance, Marian stormed off, leaving Gisborne alone and furious with himself.

He was about to roar his rage when realisation dawned on him.

She could be his for the taking.

She actually wanted him to take her but killing that smug little pig Locksley was not allowed.

"So," Guy murmured. "I've got some planning to do."

'Find some other way to get you. I will milady. I will,'

Outside Robin's carriage, Nottingham Castle stable yard

"Well that seemed to go well," Robin commented to Much and Sir Edward whilst they waited for Marian.

"Indeed," Edward agreed. "Vasey was most ruffled. Well done, Robin."

"Marian seems to be taking her time," the young earl remarked, scratching his chin. "I wonder what's keeping her?"

Before Much or Edward could give an answer, Marian appeared, flustered and annoyed.

"We've been waiting for you, Marian!" Edward reprimanded sternly. "Tardiness is not becoming of a lady of your station."

"I am sorry, father," the maiden said whilst brushing loose tendrils of near black hair from her face. "I was held up by Lady Merton."

Edward huffed and Marian rolled her eyes.

"It doesn't matter," Robin said, trying to prevent an argument from breaking out between the pair. "But we should get going. The silver smith would have had your ring ready by now."

Marian's dark eyebrows arched in surprise.

"Already?" she asked.

Robin simpered at her.

"Of course, I want to get it on your finger as soon as possible," he told her, green eyes twinkling.

Marian looked away from him, feeling uncomfortable.

Her gaze met with Much and her discomfort increased. Much, she knew for a fact, resented her betrothal to Robin almost as much as she did. The idea of her coming between him and his precious master, especially when she did not love him the way a wife should her husband, was sheer torture for him.

He found her repellent, but his love for Robin would not allow him to give voice to his revulsion.

Marian was grateful for that. Robin would need someone to complain to when he finally realised that she would never harbour anything other then a sisterly fondness and respect for him.

Knighton Hall, Marian's chambers

Angry, the girl paced back and forth in her chambers.

How could Gisborne be so intolerable? How dare he?

His complete lack of consideration for her situation was maddening. She had shown him an entire ocean of sympathy and had listened to him complain endlessly about Defortnoi. She had been there for him whenever Vasey had made a cruel mockery of him. Now, just when she needed him to be her rock, her friend, he lashed out at her, wrongfully accusing her of falling in love with her betrothed.

Marian stopped her pacing and raked a hand through her hair.

She did not want to marry Robin. She did not want to marry anyone.

What she wanted was to stop the evil that was slowly choking her beloved country to death.

But she could not do that. She wasn't a man.

OoO

She had tired of pacing, now she had retreated to her bed, sitting on the edge of it, staring at the hands she clasped in her lap.

Sometime after learning of her union, she came to the conclusion that marrying Robin would not be the end of the world. They did share beliefs and a firm hatred for Vasey after all.

But there would be no passion, no fire. He would treat her like a gem rather then a valued companion. She would be expected to tend to their children, the running of the household, and his clothing.

The thrill of danger and political arena she so desperately yearned for would be snatched away from her forever.

Unless …. She married Guy.

He would not deny her. He would not deny her anything.

They could work together. Bring Vasey down. Perhaps even overthrow Prince John.

They could be unstoppable. They could be amazing.

She looked to the moon, recalling her words of earlier.

'Find some other way to get me!'

That, to Guy would have sounded like a yes to the marriage proposal.

she had seen shining in his eyes.

He may not have asked for her hand, but she knew the question was waiting, just begging to be uttered.

She did not know if she could love him. Enjoy him, perhaps. But love?

Sir and Lady Merton were in love. Despite the age difference. Her mother and father's love had blossomed into the perfect flower over a period of time.

"Maybe I should reconsider," Marian said to the moon.

A star winked back at her.

"Lady Marian Elizabeth of Gisborne," the girl whispered.

The name felt good in her mouth.

A meadow behind Knighton Hall

"Do you like your ring?"

Marian thought for a moment or so, trying to think of a word that did not sound like "Disgusting, pretentious" or "unctuous."

"It is quite large," she said at last, watching as the sunlight shone through the many diamonds surrounding the giant emerald that weighed her hand down like a mountainous sack of soggy mud.

"Your wedding ring will be bigger," Robin added, failing to notice that she had not told him whether she liked the ring or not.

"I see," the girl murmured, dropping her hand, staring across the meadow.

"Come on," Robin said, offering her his arm. "The guests for our celebration should be here by now."

Locksley Manor, the main chamber

"My friends. Our thanks to you for joining us in celebration of this glorious occasion," Robin addressed, raising his goblet.

The nobles, minus Vasey and Gisborne, raised their goblets in answer, murmuring their congratulations, smiling at Marian who stood beside Robin, trying for her father's sake to not roll her eyes and scowl.

"He'll have a jolly time fucking her, I warrant," Vasey muttered to Guy. "If the wench doesn't poke his little cock with an embroidery needle first."

Gisborne could not help but smile into his goblet.

What a delightful thought.

"Instead of gifts," Robin continued. "We ask that you make a donation of coin. It's for the poor."

"Like Hell I will!" Vasey growled, fuming.

OoO

As Robin waffled on about King and country, Guy studied Marian, ignoring the sheriff's minor on going temper tantrum.

After the earl's declaration, the girl seemed to have gone from uneasy and frosty to almost deliriously happy.

Her face glowed and she smiled at Robin.

This depressed Gisborne considerably.

Of course she would glow! Of course she would bloody well smile!

This was something she would have supported whole-heartedly whether Robin were her betrothed or no.

It was something, whilst under Vasey's patronage; he could not afford to do.

The speech ended at last.

Feeling that he had heard enough of the pompous prats preaching, Guy muttered an excuse to Vasey and stomped off, pushing Much aside when he tried to get a donation out of him.

Locksley Stable yard

The brown Rouncy stallion nickered in greeting when seeing Gisborne approach.

"Lo mate," the tall man grunted, lifting the saddle and saddlecloth from the stall rail.

He was nearly done when a strangers voiced piped up.

"Shall I tack im up for ee, milord?"

"I can do it," Guy muttered unhitching the stall door, not bothering to look at who had spoken. "Go about your business and leave me be."

"Afraid I can't do that, Gisborne."

This time Guy slowly looked over his shoulder.

"What do you want?" he asked coldly.

Robin stuffed his hands into his breeches pockets, chewing casually on a piece of straw.

"Leaving us so soon?"

Guy returned his gaze to his horse that was already on edge.

"I have no reason to stay," he muttered, petting the velvety black and orange nose of his mount.

"You didn't make a donation. The sheriff did."

Guy snorted.

"To save face."

"Make a donation, Gisborne."

"No."

"Gisborne."

"Fuck off earsling."

Robin's face reddened in fury.

"You'll pay for that!" he snapped and swiftly drew his sword from its scabbard.

Gisborne felt a flame of excitement burn bright in his belly.

Letting go of his horses reins, he swiftly ripped his sword from its sheath, lunging toward the young man.

Startled, a tall dapple-grey courser stallion neighed in protest, its neighbour; a brown screwbald gelding gave an irritated shake of its head then went back to its hay net.

Locksley Manor

"Milady, milady!"

Marian turned from her father to see a petrified servant girl running at top speed towards them.

"Slow down before you fall down!" she ordered, fearing the frantic girl would slip and collide with a less then understanding guest.

"Milady, Sir Guy-" the girl paused to collect herself, panting. "Sir Guy and the earl, they'd be fightin!"

'What?" Edward cried, astounded.

"Show me!" Marian growled, gathering her skirt.

"Milady," the girl gasped then proceeded to show Marian and her father where the men were to be found.

Locksley training yard

"Good lord!" Sir Edward exclaimed breathlessly, falling into step beside Sir Merton.

Gaping, Marian could not believe what she was seeing.

Both men were bruised and bloody with superficial wounds. Their swords met with abrupt sparks and clashes. Their faces glistened heavily with sweat.

Guy uttered a belligerent holler of anger and charged at Robin.

Swiftly, the young man leapt out of the way then lashed out with his booted foot at the back of Gisborne's legs thus making the older man stumble and drop to his knees.

Seething, Marian clenched her fists, marching toward the fighters, ignoring her father's pleas for her to discontinue.

"Stop this!" she bellowed, her face both red and fuming. "You stop this right now!"
Startled, Robin stopped in his assault upon Gisborne to look to his betrothed.

"Marian-" he began but the fury in the girl's eyes was enough to silence him.

"Fools!" the girl snarled. "Fighting like children when you are supposed to be adults!"

"He insulted me!" Robin yelled pointing at Guy who turned his head the other way and sniffed.

Marian rolled her eyes.

"And what did Robin do to you?" she asked Gisborne, hands on her shapely hips.

"He pestered me for a donation, my lady," the knackered knight panted. "I found his continuous nagging tedious and lost my temper."

Marian nodded.

"I see," she murmured. "Robin, send for a physician. Sir Guy, will you allow me to tend to you, personally?"

Robin bridled at her words, Gisborne noticed this and fought the urge to flash a smug grin in the youth's direction.

"My thanks," he told her, "but I've outstayed my welcome. I apologise for spoiling your celebrations and bid you good day." Guy then reached into his doublet, pulling out a crimson purse, "do what you will with this," he told her quietly.

Prepared to be civil, Marian walked over, taking the pregnant velvet purse from him, offering a restrained, but gracious smile.

"Thank you, Sir Guy," she said softly.

Accidently, her fingers brushed with his own.

Marian felt her heart skip and her skin grow warm all over.

Gisborne smiled slightly, as if he knew what had occurred.

"My lady," he murmured.

OoO

After the guests had left, Edward ordered Marian to go up to Robin's chambers and tend to him.

Annoyed and tired, the girl trudged up the stairs, following an equally displeased Much who had wanted Robin all to himself.

"My master is in a great deal of pain, ladyship," he informed as they walked along a hallway towards Robin's chamber.

"Mmm," Marian agreed, not really listening or caring.

"My lady Marian?"

The girl shook her head.

"I'm sorry, Much, I wasn't listening."

Much huffed.

"Lady Marian, my master has been most grievously wounded. Wounded by that vile creature Guy of Gisborne!"

"Oh … yes. The injury to his head."

"You must be so very glad Robin is back from the holy lands," Much continued. "Now you shan't have to endure that disgusting beast's attentions a moment longer. I daresay-"

"Enough!" Marian hissed at last. "Enough, Much!"

The young man stepped back, shocked by the noble woman's fury.

"Y-your ladyship," he stammered. "I was only-"

"How dare you assume I was not content courting Sir Guy," Marian growled. "Jesu! You are such a simple minded fool sometimes! Go back to Bonchurch, Much. I am certain I can manage looking after Robin on my own."

Much bowed.

"Yes, your ladyship!" he squeaked then hurried down the stairs.

It was only when he was in the carriage and halfway home when Much realised that Marian had treated him like a servant.

Robin's bedchambers

"Marian," the earl greeted feebly. "I was hoping you'd come," he sat up in his chair. "Where is Much?"

"He went back to Bonchurch," Marian explained, setting the bowls and other items onto a nearby table. "I told him I could manage."

"That you can," Robin agreed. "You are so capable, Marian."

Saying nothing, the girl took a seat beside him and began cleaning the scratch on Robin's head.

"Ow!" Robin cried when the ointment began to sting.

"It has to be cleaned or you will catch a fever," Marian reminded.

She inspected the wound, frowning at it.

"It needs stitches," she murmured dryly then reached for a needle and thread. "This needle is thick and blunt, are you prepared?" she then asked, arching a dark eyebrow.

Robin grinned boyishly back at her.

"What?"

"It's the way you sell it," he teased.

Marian rolled her eyes and poked him in the arm with the needle.

"Ow!" he cried again.

"Did that hurt?" she asked innocently.

"Yes!" Robin answered indignantly, petulance written all over his features.

"Good."

"This is about Gisborne, isn't it?" he asked, eying her warily as she began her stitching.

"No."

"He deserved it," the earl huffed.

"Why? Because he would not pay a donation?"

"No, he was acting like a bull before a red flag," Robin insisted crossly. "He called me an earsling."

"Is that all?"

"I don't like the way he looks at you," he added. "It's as if he wants to take you away from me."

Marian said nothing.

"He can't," Robin said after a brief silence. "I won't let him. In a few weeks time we'll be bound together in holy matrimony and he won't be able to do anything about it."

Feeling ill in her stomach, the girl finished her task then gingerly rose to her feet.

"I've finished," she told her betrothed. "You may sleep now."

Robin grinned impishly up at her.

"Kiss it better?" he asked hopefully, batting his thick eyelashes.

"I am going home," she reported stoically.

"But your father told me you would stay and look after me," Robin complained.

"You have servants, call for them. Good night, Robin."

"Marian?"

The hunting lodge

"Thank you," the girl murmured as the servant took her cloak.

The youth smiled kindly at her.

"I'll fletch Sir Guy for ee, milady," he told her.

"Wait!" Marian swiftly delved into the heavy navy blue velvet coin purse tied to her dresses belt. "For your silence," she whispered, handing him ten gold pieces.

The young man gasped at her generosity.

"You ave it, my lady," he whispered.

OoO

Beside the fireplace, Marian felt her skin tingle all over as she heard footsteps.

Gulping nervously, she clasped her hands in front of her, waiting for Gisborne to come into view.

She gasped.

Aside from a cracked lip and a black eye, Gisborne was still undeniably a magnificent creature to behold. He was devoid of a shirt. His muscles rippled almost wickedly in the glow of candlelight. His dark hair ruffled from lack of comb and oil.

Wrapt securely around his arm and leg were thick bandages hiding the more deadly wounds Robin had managed to inflict upon his person.

"What is it?" he asked in a low rumble, tearing the maiden from her thoughts.

Marian dropped her gaze to the floor.

"Forgive me, I know it is very late," she whispered.

"What is it, Marian?"

"I need help," she told the knight. "I don't want to marry Robin. I came here to ask for your help. I don't have anyone else to turn to."

Gisborne rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

"What you are asking is no mean feat. The consequences of your actions will be severe should you fail."

"I know. I do not wish death on Robin but I do not want to be his wife. The idea sickens me."

"If I help you avoid this marriage what will I receive in return?" Guy asked. "It has to be better then a pat on the back or a chaste kiss on the cheek, Marian."

"Whatever you want!" Marian vowed earnestly, finally raising her head to look at him. "Whatever you need, I will give it to you freely."

Gisborne nodded.

"Yes," he agreed. "You will."

Knighton Hall, Marian's chambers

He was making her wait!

Too vexed to sleep, Marian leapt off her bed and began to pace the floor.

Argh! This was so frustrating!

If he were here Marian knew Guy would enjoy watching her squirm.

She could almost see his irritating smirk!

That beast!

Growling irritably, the girl twisted her heavy betrothal ring off her finger and glared at it as if it had said something offensive to her.

"Don't tarry, Guy," she whispered warily. "I don't know how much longer I can wait."

Nottingham Castle, the great hall

"If Robin is attending the council today, you had better be on your best behaviour," Sir Edward warned as he and the maiden made their entrance into the Hall.

"I will, father," Marian murmured.

Sir Edward had been most livid when he saw Marian emerge from her chambers that morning. He raged and raged at her till the girl had pleaded him to calm himself before doing an injury to his health, promising to have their cook make him his favourite morning meal, sheep liver, bacon and onions, an indulgence he wasn't allowed very often.

OoO

It seemed that Robin had chosen not to attend today's council.

Marian deduced the injury to his head was the reason.

Guy, she noticed, was there.

He stood on the left side of Vasey either brooding or glaring hatefully whenever Defortnoi spoke.

Behind her father, Marian felt herself grow twitchy.

How long would he have her wait? There was such little time.

A seamstress was coming over this afternoon for a dress fitting. Food and entertainments were being discussed and invitations were being sent off this very moment.

"Feeling a wee bit flighty are we, little Marian?" Vasey taunted from his chair. "Wedding jitters?"

Marian licked her lips.

"No, my lord sheriff," she replied, ignoring her fathers slump of shoulders. "I am merely tired."

"Oh la dee da! Where is the puppy faced earl?"

'Locksley, milord sheriff," a man said. "Me name be Graeme of Locksley and I'd be ere on Sir Robin's behalf."

"Oh, are you just?" Vasey sneered, not impressed.

"As am I!" piped another voice.

All of the nobles, including Marian, Guy and the sheriff, turned to see who the latest speaker was.

Much was standing at the far end of the hall, scrunching his little hat into a ball.

Marian winced inwardly, unwillingly tightened her grip on the armrests of her chair and waited for Vasey's storm.

This was not going to be pretty.

"Oh look!" the sheriff exclaimed, delighted. ?It's wee Robin Red Breasts little friend, Muck!"

Defortnoi, Gisborne and a few of the sheriff's other loyal companions snickered.

Marian scowled at the men.

As much as she disliked Much, she thought this mockery was highly unfair.

"My dear lord of Bonchurch," Vasey simpered. "If my Captain can manage to take leave of his sick bed and perform his duty to me why can't the earl attend the council?"

Much gaped helplessly at the sheriff, his eyes growing wider and wider.

"Well?" Vasey demanded, tapping his fingers. "Waiting, Mulchie boy!"

This was fast becoming intolerable, she had to do something.

"My lord sheriff, my betrothed took a blow to the head. It was somewhat serious. I tended to it myself last night."

The sheriff's evil gaze swept to Marian.

"Is that so?" he sneered.

"It is, my lord," Marian answered, lowering her gaze to her lap in order to prevent Vasey from seeing the dislike in her eyes.

"So, my dearest Gizzy managed to belt the brat around a bit, eh?" Vasey chuckled. "You tell your little lover lad that I think his absence is downright cowardly," he added, pointing a black nailed finger at Marian and Much.

"My lord!" Much began.

Marian cast the former servant a warning look.

"Yes Mickey?"

Realising it would be better to say nothing, Much shook his head.

"Whatever you say, my lord sheriff," he murmured, slumping his shoulders.

OoO

The council was over.

Standing near a pillar, Marian waited impatiently for Gisborne to approach her. It was imperative that she'd speak with him. She had to know what he had planned.

She waited and waited and waited.

He did not come.

Annoyed, the girl took several deep breaths, counted to ten, willing herself not to fall into a conniption.

He had every right to take his time she reminded herself. He-

"Milady?"

Marian bit back a cry of frustration.

Pasting a smile on her face, she turned to face a servant.

"Yes?" she asked, wiping at the offensive curls that had escaped her braid.

"Milady, Sir Guy asked me to pass this message onto you."

Marian took the scroll readily.

"Thank you," she murmured.

The young man nodded.

"Milady."

Breaking the seal, Marian read the message quickly, blue eyes darting here and there before coming to a close.

Cottage near Nettlestone village

Marian was very anxious by the time she had reached the meeting place Guy had secured for them. When she entered the small chamber, she was slightly surprised and a little peeved that he, on the other hand, seemed to be the very epitome of calmness.

Guy stood near the crackling fireplace, black leather clad back to her, arms folded over his broad chest, hair tousled from his ride.

He glanced briefly in her direction then returned his gaze to the flames.

Slowly, Marian made her way over to a small armchair, gripping the head of it with nervous waxen hands.

"Guy?" she whispered softly.

He did not speak for a long time.

"I have made my decision," he revealed when she thought she was going to lose her fortitude and yell.

Marian swallowed thickly and closed her eyes.

"I see," she said gravely.

Gisborne turned to face her, face completely devoid of emotion.

Swallowing again, the dark haired girl rose from her chair and walked toward him.

It was only when she was standing beside him did he speak again.

"Robin will become an outlaw," Gisborne revealed, voice soft as the velvety skin of a bats wing.

The maiden felt her lips peel apart in shock.

"And you will be mine."

Marian stared at him, mouth gaping.

Guy tilted his head to one side.

"Well?" he asked.

"That is the only way?" she asked weakly, face growing whiter and whiter. "There is no other way?"

"Unless you want a runt on top of you on your wedding night, then yes."

Marian bowed her head.

"I want to think," she whispered.

"You have a day."

She raised her head, aghast.

"Just one day!" she exclaimed breathlessly. "Guy, I-"

"Runt, Marian," Guy reminded, cutting her off. "Or do you secretly entertain the idea of having the little earl grunting and heaving in your ears night after night?"

"Lying with Robin would be like lying with ones brother," Marian managed to say at last. "I cannot do that. The very idea sickens me. I cannot be his wife!"

"Then marry me."

Unable to hold his gaze, Marian turned away from him, eyes roaming franticly anywhere but to him.

"Will you marry me?"

'Then find some other way to get me!'

End of part 2

Authors note

What has Marian decided? Will she let Robin become an outlaw or will she change her mind and marry him?

Find out in the next chappie!

Thanks for reading Leah.

The last chappie is going to be a tragic one, prepare your hankies and truck loads of chocolate!