part 7

The boys barely noticed that they had company. They were whispering to Allan, Much holding onto Allan's leg, Will frantically rubbing his arms. He was virtually drowning in clothing as the boys had taken off the majority of theirs, presumably to keep him as warm as they could. Robin pulled out the key that Allan had 'acquired' but one week ago and proceeded to unlock the door- this movement caused the boys in the cell to react as Much moved between the door and Allan, and Will sprung to his feet, fists clenched.

"Have to go through us first this time."

"Oh, Will..." The sight of Will and Much brought both pride at their protectiveness and sorrow at the thought of what had brought them to this point.

"R...Robin?" Hands were lowered. Djaq and John breezed past the two as Robin pulled Will into a fierce embrace, allowing the trembling boy to release his anguish. He watched the others as they knelt next to Allan, Djaq looked at his foot and could not contain the sob that overcame her. Little John turned to Robin and shook his head. Once again he scooped up the boy like a babe and gave Robin a grim look as they prepared to leave the cursed place as soon as possible. Much and Will found themselves subconsciously pairing up with one another as they made their way outside. Lucky, thought Robin, that only one was injured. The cart had been seized and the alarm bells were ringing. Come on lads. Lets go home.