Chapter 41
Conclusions
Like all fairy tales ours ends here at happily ever after. Yet like all lives those of Robin and his band continued. Luke the Bow maker died that next winter and the next spring Little John was reunited with Alice and his son. They lived a happy life and one night, when he was very old and very happy, John dreamed of the day he met Alice outside his father's mill where she had sat in her father's wagon, waiting for the flour. As he looked into her eyes his body relaxed in peace and he ended his time in the moment that had defined his life.
Allen and Djaq were kind and wise. Under them Locksley prospered and their people were happy. Many years later Allen would laugh as his son's tried to reign in their daughters, he knew from experience that the best women were the ones who would not be ruled - although he did agree with them about the cats and their cubs. He had never become fond of the little man eaters after all.
Will had met one of Noor's compatriots from the harem in the Nottingham market. She had taken ill and Prince Tariq had left her behind to get well under the supervision of Sir Edward. Will and Hannah married the next spring and she of course never returned to Jerusalem. He became Much's keeper of the keys and master carpenter of Bonchurch, positions his sons would occupy once he was gone.
Much meanwhile married his Eve. They had many children and led a prosperous life. Lord Much of Bonchurch became known for the feasts he held for his tenants and it is said that no happier, more generous lord has ever lived. Their oldest daughter would marry Edward and inherit Bonchurch Lodge, her sister would marry Allen and Djaq's oldest son – Will – and inherit Locksley Manor, and their son – Robin - would marry Sir Edward's godchild – Noor and Robin's daughter Marion – and later inherit Knighton Hall. All of their children were happy and prosperous and Much would watch in delight as the legend of his master would intertwine with the legend of his own son and his Marion and how dearly they loved each other.
As for our hero, he retired to his estates in France. There he lived in peace and harmony, sharing his life with Noor. The details are inconsequential but one must note that in fact – they did live happily ever after.