Part 3
The gang were hidden in the foliage or what remained of it. As usual December was proving to be a hard month, weather, and rich picking wise also. Just when Robin was going to give the signal to call it a day the rumble of horses and coaches could be heard in the distance. Heading the train was Gisborne's sergeant, distinctive by his gold and black uniform, following him were a number of other guards still in the Gisborne colours. Behind that was Guy's personal carriage, the curtains were drawn, so the occupant or occupants were hidden from view, the train was completed by Guy looking very pleased with himself and they were heading in the direction of Locksley.
"We are going to Locksley Master?" asked Much.
Robin nodded signalling to the others that they were to follow Gisborne. "Hopefully after months of waiting we will find out what he has been scheming." Turning to Marian he added carefully. "Perhaps you should go back to the cave, we might be a while, it is cold, it is damp……… alright come along," he said when all he received was a stony glare.
They travelled swiftly to Locksley not wanting to miss Gisborne's guests climb out of the carriage. When they arrived they placed themselves with a good vantage point just as the guards dismounted and the curtains to the carriage were pulled back.
There was a collective intake of breath as they watched the lady show herself and stand on the grass. Gisborne's villagers bowed down as they were expected to do, a few of the elder ones recognising Gisborne's guest instantly.
Marian watched Robin's expressions change rapidly from surprise, anger to confusion. She put her hand on his arm but he shook it off.
"It will not do to confront him today. I do not think she is here of her own free will and to challenge him is what he wants. Nothing was achieved in the summer and nothing will be achieved now, except to make the situation worse," Marian stated.
He sighed but did not say anything and the remainder of the gang waited with bated breath for his next move.
"I must say he is despicable," Much uttered when still nothing was said on the matter from their leader, "I mean what he has done is surely unforgivable."
"Shut up!" Allan shot at him.
"Forgive me for having an opinion," Much replied hurt.
"Not now," whispered Marian to him.
"Very well," he reluctantly ceded. "Master?"