That night the gang stayed in the king's camp. Robin and Marian had been arguing for the last half hour as to what to do next.
"Marian, you cannot return to Nottingham. The sheriff not to mention Guy will be out for your blood. It would be far too easy for them to use you to get to me."
"Do not tell me what to do. This is my fight too, Robin, and I can look after myself."
"Like you looked after yourself today? If it wasn't for me you'd be dead now."
"I did what was necessary. It's perfectly alright for you to risk your life but I cannot? The people need me."
They glared at each other for a moment before Robin let out an exasperated sigh wishing she were easier to reason with. "You have helped a great deal. You saved the king today." He reached up to caress her cheek glad when she didn't slap him away as he had expected. "I need you more. Think about me, my love. If you are in Nottingham I will be too worried about you to help anyone. You are what keeps me going, what makes me believe that all this is worthwhile. If I was to loose you I wouldn't be able to go on. I couldn't be Robin Hood."
Marian's expression softened. "I would be just as devastated if I were to loose you. You're all I have left."
The king who had been listening from the other side of the tent decided to intervene. "Lady Marian I am grateful for all you have done for me and the nation but I feel Robin is right. It would be best if you disappeared somewhere safe until all this is over."
"Where will I go, your majesty? I have no family."
The king thought for a moment. "I know of a small chapel not too far outside of Nottingham. I'm sure Friar Tuck will take you in. In fact I'll make sure of it by sending a letter with you."
Marian sighed in resignation. "Very well."
Robin gave a grateful nod to the king. "Thank you, your majesty. I do believe that's the first time she has listened to any man." He turned back toward Marian a teasing smirk on his face. "Maybe I should keep the king close after we are married so you'll agree with me now and then."
Marian punched him in the arm causing the king to laugh as Robin rubbed the sore spot. "Robin, I do believe you have met your match but are you sure you can keep up with her?"
Robin turned a loving smile towards Marian. "It's a challenge I love and look forward to, your majesty."
