Lady Nottingham's Secret: Book Two

by Lady to the Sheriff

This is the continuation of Lady Nottingham's Secret. It turned into a bit of a novel but it's almost done. Chapter 1 here is actually 56. There's new twists & excitement coming. Will the Sheriff and his lovely lady survive the ultimate test?

20. Chapter 75

On Wednesday morning, the Sheriff was meeting with Thomas Crumwell in the Council Quarters. He gestured to the table, inviting Thomas to be seated, and poured water from the pitcher placed in the center of it into two goblets for them.

Thomas looked to the Sheriff questioningly, for, it was appearing this meeting would not be brief.

"We have a few things to discuss, Thomas. Please, be seated." the Sheriff said as he gestured to the chair closest to Thomas.

Thomas relented and took a seat. He took a sip of water from the silver goblet and looked to the Sheriff who seated himself in a chair across from him.

"Has Lady Rhiannon's pain started again? Is she bleeding? If so, we are wasting time." Thomas said, with his eyes narrowed suspiciously.

"No. She is grand, Thomas. That's one of the things I wanted to speak with you about. I'm insisting she venture no farther than the grounds surrounding the castle, as a preventative measure should anything like that happen again. With that in mind, could we relieve Lady Margaret of her duties here, so that she can watch my son again for the moment?" the Sheriff asked.

"Hmm… Nettlestone is a bit of a distance from here, Milord. And she is the only midwife in the area that I know of. Even if there were another, Margaret is the only one I trust." Thomas admitted.

"I really need to bring my future sister in law home. I think it would help Rhiannon to have her near. They have become close, but, my lady is truly missing her." the Sheriff said.

"Indeed. It is a dilemma." Thomas sighed. "I would prefer to have Lady Margaret close by should we need her. I do understand that keeping Lady Rhiannon's sister in law away from her is a detriment to her, however." he sighed and rubbed his chin in contemplation. "You are certain — her pain has not returned?"

"Yes." the Sheriff said.

"No bleeding at all?" Thomas asked.

"No, Thomas. Even though we would normally never discuss topics of that nature, in this case, I'm confident she would tell me." the Sheriff said with a nod.

"No fever? No malaise of any kind? Lower back discomfort? Has a good deal of water been expelled from her?" Thomas asked.

"Uhh… no? Should someone be checking her privy pot, or … " the Sheriff sighed.

"No." Thomas said. "I'm not talking about urine. While babies are growing they are surrounded by a sack of clear water. When the water comes it indicates birth is imminent." Thomas explained.

"Oh!" the Sheriff sighed. He was beginning to feel a little malaise, himself. He was glad to have delayed his morning repast.

"Milord, are you alright? Your colour is rather pallid just now." the physician observed.

"I'm grand, Thomas. When you and Lady Margaret go into depth about matters of the human body, it's a bit unsettling at times." he admitted.

The medicus chuckled. "Yes, I can understand that, Milord. Forgive me, but, I do need to know these things in order to make a decision."

"Yes." the Sheriff agreed.

"I don't want her overdoing it, Milord. Lady Rhiannon is not one for sitting idle." Thomas said with a knowing glance.

"I agree. That's why I'm allowing her freedom to walk the grounds, but, no farther than that. She enjoys reading her books in the gardens." the Sheriff smiled.

"Well, I don't see any problem with that. The fresh air will be good for her, as well." he mused. "Alright. I will agree to this. At the first sign of any trouble, you must summon me at once, and send someone to Nettlestone to bring Lady Margaret back, however."

"I will, Thomas." the Sheriff smiled.

"And she must keep warm if she's heading outside. The autumn air is rather chill, and I don't want her to suffer any ill effects from overexposing herself to cold weather." Thomas added.

"I agree. I will be certain to tell her that and insist she keep warm." the Sheriff assured him.

"It's settled, then. I will permit Lady Margaret be relieved of her duty here… for now. Now, what were the other points of mention?" Thomas asked.

"Just one other point. I would like you to tell me what exactly happened… to my mother." the Sheriff said. He closed his eyes and sighed.

In truth, he seldom thought of his parents. Whenever he was told anything about them it was as if the person were speaking of fictional characters out of a story. He was too young at the time of their deaths to have any memory at all of either of them.

"She died as a result of childbirth complications, Milord. So did your brother." Thomas said. "I thought you knew this already?" he added.

"I did know, Thomas. However, only you could begin to explain what, in particular, went wrong to cause their demise." the Sheriff explained. "I would really like to know what happened to my mother."

Thomas took a sip from his goblet and sighed. That was an awful day. One he kept buried, though, he'd never forgotten it. For, Lady Nottingham and her husband, the Sheriff of Nottingham at that time, were good friends of his. He remembered he was still reeling from Giles' unexpected death, as it had only happened a few months prior. He was very saddened that day, to the point he took leave of his duties for a time. As a physician, he had never felt as powerless as he did that day.

"She bled… a lot. Sadly, this happens sometimes." Thomas said.

"Nothing could be done?" the Sheriff pressed him.

"It was uncontrollable. The amount of it was normal at first, until about half an hour later. Your brother was born too soon in Lady Aelesia's confinement. We had no capability at all to save him. He lasted about an hour. It was about two or three hours after his birth that your mother succumbed. I tried, George. I really… tried." the physician said, softly. His eyes became misty. He closed them briefly and sighed.

"Forgive me, Thomas. I know my parents were good friends of yours."

"Indeed, they were. I knew your father from the time we were small boys. He was a fine man. I often wonder if it was grief that played a role in in your mother's pains starting far too soon then expected. Your brother wasn't expected to arrive for just over three months." Thomas said.

"I see. So he was too small to survive?" the Sheriff asked.

"Yes, but, it's more complicated than that. It's not only about size, but, a child the size he was is unable to breathe effectively on their own, unable to swallow. Everything in their body grows throughout confinement. Alas, there was nothing to be done then, and, still today, it would be a poor outcome." Thomas explained.

"Did my mother have an opportunity to see him?" the Sheriff asked.

"Oh, yes. Lady Aelesia insisted on holding him at once. I couldn't deny her that. She held him from the moment he was born until he died." Thomas said.

"Well, I suppose that is a comfort to know. I'd really like to know about my mother, though. Why the bleeding, Thomas?" the Sheriff pried further.

"All ladies have bleeding after giving birth, Milord. It gradually subsides in a matter of days, to sometimes weeks." Thomas stated.

"I was not aware of that fact. That some bleeding was normal." the Sheriff sighed, then took a sip of water from his goblet.

"In your mother's case, it was very profuse. It came fast, and in great quantity. The womb is supposed to contract after birth is completed. Hers would not. When it was all over, the entire bed was soaked. It was a frightful scene, Milord. I'm sorry to say." Thomas said. He looked downcast.

The Sheriff had a sudden empty feeling take hold of him as Thomas relayed the events of that day to him. She must have been frightened. She'd only just recently buried her husband, and had a one year old child to care for — him. He hoped she never realized she was dying.

"Rhiannon had a good deal of blood loss when our son was born, too, Thomas." the Sheriff pointed out.

"Yes, but, fortunately Lady Margaret gave her husband a flask of wheatgrass tea to take with him on the mission to find Lady Rhiannon. She knew that it would be useful should the lady need it. It helps with monthly bleeding, as well as for bleeding related to childbirth. Rhiannon was lucky. If you hadn't found her when you did, she may have suffered the same fate as your mother." Thomas said.

"This is the reason I asked the question of what happened to my mother. I'd like to know what I can do to prevent this from happening to my lady." the Sheriff explained.

"Truthfully, nothing can be done to prevent it, Milord. It just happens. I'd only seen it a couple of other times before your mother gave birth that day, but, the other two ladies lived. What interests me more, however, is how did Rhiannon's own mother fare when she gave birth to her children? That would be a better indicator of how Lady Rhiannon would fare, than knowing what happened to your mother, even though excessive bleeding can happen to any woman." Thomas said.

"As far as I know, Rhiannon's mother gave birth to two children without incident. However, she died immediately following Rhiannon's birth." the Sheriff sighed.

"When the time comes, I will do everything in my power to help her, Milord. It is a good sign that Lady Rhiannon responded well to the care you gave her, and to the wheatgrass tea that was administered. Your mother did not respond at all to everything we tried." Thomas said.

"Who else was present when my mother gave birth? You've hinted that you were not alone a couple of times in our conversation." the Sheriff pointed out to him.

"Yes. There was a midwife with me, and when the situation began to turn south we summoned for another medicus who lived close to the castle. He taught me. He was my mentor, just like how I'm mentoring Lady Margaret. Alas, there was an entire team of us, all very skilled. The other medicus and the midwife who were present died a few years later." Thomas explained.

"It's unfortunate that all of your combined expertise couldn't help her." the Sheriff said.

"Yes, and therein lies the problem, Milord. Birth is a gamble. Sometimes, even with knowledgeable persons present, a woman won't respond to treatment. It's the same for many situations outside of childbirth, as well. We do our best with the knowledge we have and the resources available to help us minister to people, but, sometimes it's still not enough." Thomas said. He took note of the growing look of concern on the Sheriff's face and added, "But, your lady is a survivor, Milord. She shouldn't have lived through that knife injury, but, she did."

"Yes. A miracle, indeed, and I'm very grateful to you and Lady Margaret for that." he said.

"I know, Milord." Thomas smiled. "You know, her last thoughts were of you."

"My mother?" the Sheriff asked.

"Yes. She whispered your name many times. She was asking the midwife to bring you to her. The midwife did bring you to her, but, when she arrived with you to the doorway of her chamber, it was too late. She had taken her last breath just moments before." he said.

The Sheriff was stunned, and lost for words. It was strange to him, yet, oddly comforting to hear. He honestly didn't know how to respond.

"Both of them adored you — Giles and Aelesia. They were fine people, and I know they'd be proud of you." Thomas added.

"Thank you, Thomas. I appreciate you taking the time to explain all of this to me. There's just one more request I have." the Sheriff said.

"Yes?"

"Would you accompany me to Lady Margaret's quarters? If you tell her the change in plans it will carry more weight than if I tell her." the Sheriff said.

"That will be fine, Milord." Thomas agreed.

Fifteen minutes later, the Sheriff and his personal physician approached the door of Lady Margaret's chambers. Officer Curran answered the door.

"Good morning, Milord." James greeted him with a smile, his grey eyes twinkling.

"Yes, good morning, James." The Sheriff furrowed his brow. "Is this what you've been doing with your time? Visiting your wife?" the Sheriff queried.

"I needed a quick word with her, Milord. Our eldest daughter is having a time managing the little ones. I just needed to sort a few things with her regarding the family." James explained.

"I see. We need to speak to your —"

"James, where did you put that note we must give to Rohesia's tutor?" Lady Margaret called out to her husband. She appeared closer to the doorway and stopped in her tracks when she noticed they had company.

"Milord? Master Crumwell? Oh! Is Lady Rhiannon in need of me just now? Forgive me. James and I were just sorting out a matter regarding our daughter." she explained.

"It's fine, Lady Margaret, but, we do wish to speak to you. Both of you, actually." the Sheriff said.

"Please, come in. " Lady Margaret invited them inside.

James closed the door and turned toward his master.

Thomas spoke first.

"Lady Margaret, we've come to inform that you are no longer needed at the castle — for now." he announced.

"Is that wise, Master Crumwell? Shouldn't I remain close in case the lady's pains recommence?" Lady Margaret asked.

"All is quiet. Milord Sheriff assures me the pain has settled. There is no bleeding. None of the classic signs of labour are present." Thomas said.

"But, it happened once. That puts her at risk." Margaret pointed out.

"That's why I'm staying close by. I have bought a property closer to Milord Sheriff so that I can be more accessible." Thomas said.

"You have?" the Sheriff asked. "You didn't mention this in our discussion earlier."

"Indeed, I have. It didn't seem an appropriate time to mention it then. We were discussing more pressing matters." Thomas said. "There's been too many occasions in the last several months you and Sir Gisborne have needed me. It makes more sense for me to live closer to the castle."

"I see. Well, that's very reassuring, indeed." the Sheriff smiled.

"Indeed, it is. So, I can go back to my —" Lady Margaret was interrupted.

"Back to Nettlestone, Lady Margaret." the Sheriff said.

Lady Margaret asked her husband to wait outside the door of her guest quarters so that she could continue the conversation privately. He agreed, nodded to the Sheriff, and stepped outside the chamber, closing the door behind him.

"I'm surprised you haven't told him about the matter of my son." the Sheriff said quietly.

"Too many people know already. Rhiannon doesn't need the whole town knowing about the son she has forgotten before she is told of the matter." Lady Margaret replied with a soft voice.

"Indeed. I appreciate your discretion." the Sheriff said.

Lady Margaret sighed. "So, she still doesn't know, I presume?" she remarked in a hushed tone.

"Not yet. The time will come soon for that." The Sheriff said.

"Hopefully, before your son starts walking." she whispered flatly.

The Sheriff sighed and folded his arms. "Indeed." he said. "I would appreciate it if you could resume your duties caring for my son in Nettlestone — without a barrage of questions. That would be grand." he commented dryly.

"You will be summoned back here at the first sign of any problem with Lady Rhiannon. Or, Lady Gisborne, should, heaven forbid, she needs us before it's time, as well." Thomas said.

"Alright. I just need to pack my bags then." Lady Margaret relented.

"That would be grand. I'll have James escort you there, since everyone else is occupied for the moment." the Sheriff said.

She nodded in deference to her Sheriff.

"Also, in truth, the child is a long way off walking yet. At the very least, six or seven months. Your knowledge of infant development is incorrect, Lady Margaret. We must work on that — unless you were jesting?" Thomas added.

"I am schooled on child development, Master Crumwell, both professionally and personally. You're welcome to quiz me on my knowledge anytime." a beat. "I was exaggerating — just slightly, however. Because, at this rate… " she glanced sideways toward the Sheriff.

"Your opinion is noted, Madam. We've spoken of this. Your expertise is required, not your opinion, nor your meddling. Indeed, thats what I compensate you for. Understood?" the Sheriff said.

"Indeed." she said.

Lady Margaret left them to pack her things. Thomas took his leave of them, and the Sheriff headed outside of the chamber to speak with James.

"James, you will be reassigned after you've taken Lady Margaret to Guy's manor in Nettlestone." the Sheriff said to his Officer.

"Very well, Milord. What is my assignment?" James asked.

"You will be guarding my lady's manor. It's just outside of the Village. My Scribe will issue maps to you for Guy's manor in Nettlestone, and Lady Rhiannon's manor, as well." he said.

"You expecting a problem at your lady's manor, Milord? Rather odd, since she's here in the castle now… " James said as he pushed a few strands of his golden reddish hair from his face.

"Yes. A potential problem. That's why I'm sending you there." the Sheriff said.

"I see." James said.

"And before you head to Lady Rhiannon's manor, you will bring Lady Isabelle Wordsworth here to the castle first. She is currently covering for your wife in Nettlestone." the Sheriff said. He handed a scroll to James. "You will give this to her when you introduce yourself to her. She does not know you, and even though your wife can vet you, I want her to know from me that she can trust you. It's not safe for ladies to be riding around with strange men, especially in these times." the Sheriff instructed.

Officer James nodded, took the scroll, then spoke. "Point taken, Milord Sheriff. It shall be done." he took a deep inhale before continuing. "With all due respect, Milord, would it not save a lot of steps, and reassure Lady Wordsworth if you were the one to fetch her?" James asked.

"There's some things I must take care of here. Do you not think I carefully consider my options before I act on them?" the Sheriff asked with his eyebrow quirked. "Have you forgotten that everyone else is occupied? Even her own husband is up to his eyebrows fixing everything wrong in the armoury. He's the reason for your new helm that actually fits — and stopped causing brain damage." the Sheriff sighed.

"I guess that would explain why he can't bring her back. You must point him out to me some time, Milord — so that I may shake his hand." James said.

"Indeed." the Sheriff folded his arms. "Back to your instructions. Do pay attention. You shall treat Lady Isabelle with respect, she is to be my family." the Sheriff said firmly. "You get her here safely. She will be shown to her quarters on arrival. Are we clear?" the Sheriff said with a knowing glance.

"Crystal, Milord." James nodded an affirmative.

"Good. Make haste as soon as your wife is packed for her journey." the Sheriff said.

The day was overcast yet fair as Guy Gisborne and Duke Farnsworth led the men. The forest was located twenty miles north of Nottingham. It was quite vast, at one hundred thousand acres, taking up one fifth of Nottinghamshire. At this point in their travels it was just ahead of them by about forty yards. They were stopped for a briefing before continuing on the main path known as the Great North Way.

"Alright men, here is the plan. We shall continue on another twenty miles or so on the Great North Way before we break off into groups and go off the main path deeper into the forest." Duke Farnsworth addressed them.

Guy spoke next. "Hood's former camp is not far from there, men. If the stumpy bastard and his comrade have come here, it would make sense that they might be hiding out at the old outlaw camp."

"I never understood why Locksley and his band of rebels would choose this place, of all places in the shire to hide out." Alex muttered. "It's so foreboding here."

"Because they could hide here and plot their next moves, away from the eyes of the law, yet still remain close to the Village." Luke pointed out.

"Exactly, Luke. They were hiding here in plain sight. They were cunning that way." Duke Farnsworth said.

"And all the noblemen they would rob as the noblemen travelled the Great North Way from York through the shire on their way toward London." Mordrid added. "It's fortunate for you that you weren't here at that time, Luke."

"Aye. Glad you're with us now, Luke, but, it's good you didn't have to deal with that nonsense." Adam said to his comrade.

"Aye, it was a hell of a time." Gerad added.

"Yes. Perhaps some time you can commiserate and share your experience of that time with Luke." Guy said. "The time for that is later, however. Let us find these men." a beat. "Oh, and if you hear any strange noises, aside from wild animal sounds, it is just the wind chimes that Hood and his men strung amongst the trees. I don't think we got rid of them when we destroyed much of their camp three years ago."

The Captain of the Black Knights nodded in agreement. "Quite right, Sir Gisborne." The Duke said. "Let's forge ahead, men. We have some distance to cover today."

With that, the men urged their horses into a cantor and continued ahead along the Great North Way into Sherwood Forest.

By early afternoon, Lady Isabelle Wordsworth had arrived back at the castle. She was bewildered by the sudden change in plans. She had really bonded with the wee lad, and wondered how she'd fill her time now, since she was keenly aware how busy her husband had been in the armoury. She was missing her nephew already. She wiped away a few tears with her handkerchief, quietly and discreetly, on her journey back to the castle escorted by Officer Curran of the Sheriff's Black Knights.

The last time she was brought here by Nottingham's Knights, she was too filled with anxiety to take in her surroundings and appreciate the magnificence of the stunning architecture of the castle. It was just three weeks ago she and Robert were scheduled to hang in the Village Square. She wasn't sure what happened to enlighten the Sheriff on Robert's true identity, that he was, in fact, Rhiannon's brother. It was said that the Sheriff had never stopped an execution before October 1st, the day Isabelle stood on the scaffold with Robert. She still had nightmares from that time of being imprisoned in the dungeon, and being led to the scaffold. Then, standing there, seeing the Villagers regarding her with a mixture of pity and fascination from their watchful eyes.

Yet, she had come to know a different man from the one who read her the indictment and her sentence. Indeed, he turned from villainous to a perfect gentleman the moment he ran up the stairs to the scaffold and announced that the execution was off. It was almost in the blink of an eye! He also made her sister in law happy, and that was a comfort to Isabelle.

Isabelle couldn't help but to keep her guard up, though. Because she had heard plenty about him from his dealings with Robin of Locksley, from townspeople in Pocklington, as well as from Robert when he told her the truth about his identity and that he used to be one of Robin's men. She, too, had seen the Sheriff's dark side. She wasn't certain she could fully trust him, but, she would get accustomed to this strange living arrangement of staying in the man's castle. She would do this to keep her sister in law safe, should the Sheriff remove the mask of nobility and reveal his true character.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Officer Curran's voice.

"Come, Milady." he said as he helped her down from the lovely carriage that was pulled by his horse. A stark contrast to the wagon she was sat in when brought to the castle as a common criminal.

He eased her down from the steps of the carriage, then took her bag from within it, and escorted her into the castle.

She looked up at the castle and admired the spectacular scene before her, as she tried to shake the mixture of horror she still grappled with of remembering being a prisoner, and her grief at having to say goodbye to her darling nephew.

Ten minutes later they arrived to the Council Quarters, led by the Scribe, who had greeted them just inside the main entrance to the castle.

The Scribe wrapped on the door, announced their arrival to the Sheriff of Nottingham, and Officer Curran escorted her inside. Once inside, James nodded to the Sheriff, then took his leave to head back to his horse to make way to his next assignment.

Isabelle was surprised to see her husband present with the Sheriff of Nottingham.

Robert went to her and kissed her cheek lightly. "Welcome home, my dearest." he whispered.

She smiled at him, then looked to her soon to be brother in law.

"I'm pleased to see your safe return, Lady Isabelle." the Sheriff smiled.

"My goodness, a welcome committee, Milord! What a change from a month ago." she commented, wryly. "I was a little stunned by the sudden change in plans, but, then again, it's happened once before… "

Robert raised the brows over his widened blue green eyes, and shook his head in astonishment that his wife was provoking Nottingham. I didn't think they had spent much time together, but, did Rhiannon do this? God help me of my sister rubs off on Isabelle. I don't think I'm able for that! He sighed, looked to his soon to be brother in law, and shrugged. Then he looked to his wife with a knowing glance.

"Well, now!" Robert said to Isabelle.

"Indeed, there is a change in plans, Lady Isabelle. I understand your distrust, and I have much to make up for. Only time will be the indicator. For now, I shall let your husband explain." the Sheriff said.

She looked from the Sheriff to her husband, questioningly.

"Rhiannon has been asking for you several times, my dear. At first, we told her you were getting settled in here, and giving her space as she was threatening to go into labour." Robert explained.

"But, as you may have guessed, my betrothed is quite clever, and very persistent. After awhile, she wasn't having it." the Sheriff said.

"Indeed." Robert said. "She pushed and pushed, so I finally told her you were covering for one of Lady Margaret's charges."

Lady Isabelle was visibly stunned. Her bonny blue eyes were widened as she cast curious glances at both of the men.

"Oh, it gets better." the Sheriff said to Isabelle. He then looked to Robert. "Do tell her the best part, Robert. It's a good one." he grinned.

"Well, she insisted I take you to her. I had to think of something. So, I told her the medicus questioned contagion with the charge you were caring for." Robert said.

Lady Isabelle shook her head and looked to both of them when she said, "Are you two being serious right now?"

"Indeed." Robert sighed.

"Robert, what in the devil? Haven't you told your sister enough lies? My goodness, this situation is becoming farcical." Lady Isabelle remarked. She realized she was being outspoken due to her frustration at being abruptly torn away from her nephew earlier. She sighed.

Both of them looked at her in surprise.

"Milady, you do recall that Rhiannon had been through… a trauma, and has forgotten about the child, right? It is a delicate matter, and the concern remains that such news could cause her enough stress that her pains return. The timing for revealing this to her must be perfect." the Sheriff explained.

"Yes, forgive me, Milord. It's been a rather tiring day." a beat. "So, does this mean I should stay hidden for quite a time in our quarters, to make it appear I'm in quarantine?" Isabelle sighed.

"No. If she asks, the physician cleared the patient by ruling out a contagious disease, and Lady Margaret was relieved of her duties here at the castle to recommence the care of her charge. Half of that is truth. You only need speak of it if my lady asks you. Don't draw attention to the matter by being the first to mention it. If questioned, keep it brief." the Sheriff advised.

"Very well, Milord. I will tell her that if she asks." she sighed. "I struggle with telling her a fib, though. We're still getting acquainted with each other." she explained.

"Understandable, Milady. Forgive me. When the time comes to reveal the truth to her, I will own all of this, I swear. You have my word." he said.

She nodded. "Alright, Milord."

"I have granted your husband the day off today. You've been apart for quite a time and I didn't want you to have to wait until the evening to see him on your first day back." the Sheriff said.

Isabelle was shocked at his sensitivity to her, but, kept that to herself.

"I appreciate that, Milord." she said. "Was it you, or your physician who granted Lady Margaret take leave of my sister in law to resume her duty in Nettlestone?" she asked.

"It was my physician. I wouldn't make that decision on my own. I needed his expert opinion. He is close by should we need him." the Sheriff nodded.

"That is good to hear. If he is satisfied with Rhiannon's progress, that is encouraging, indeed." she smiled.

"Yes, That is my hope." the Sheriff said. He looked downcast.

"Nottingham?" Robert asked. "Is there something amiss?"

"No. All is quiet with Rhiannon. Indeed, Thomas approved of all of this before I sent for your wife. It's just a little concern… for what's to come much later. I didn't have an opportunity to think on this the last time. I wasn't aware of the child until days after finding Rhiannon. Once she was well enough to make the journey here, Lady Margaret informed me after she examined Rhiannon." he said softly. "She was abducted, taken from me before there was a child at all."

"Oh, my! Her entire confinement spent in captivity? How frightful, Milord!" Isabelle said with a shudder.

"That must have been a trying time for the both of you." Robert said.

"Aye. Very concerning. She was in a dreadful state." the Sheriff said.

He decided to keep it to himself, for now -- the number of times he'd nearly lost her in the last year since they'd met. He didn't want to burden Robert with that knowledge.

"It will be fine, Milord. You'll see. Ladies have been doing this a very long time." Isabelle said, in an attempt to reassure him.

"Yes, you're right, Lady Isabelle. It will be fine, I'm sure." the Sheriff nodded in feigned agreement.

Sure. Now, tell that to my mother, or the lady who was supposed to be our mother in law. I'm sure they were told the same platitudes about it being normal and natural. You'll need to visit their graves to tell them how easy birthing a child is, however. the Sheriff thought.

The men had separated into groups of two and were riding deeper into the forest looking for the men they were after, or any sign they might have been there. Guy chose Luke to accompany him and they were the first of the men to come across Locksley's former outlaw camp.

"Is this the place, Sir Gisborne? From what I'm seeing so far, it's quite intricately constructed." Luke remarked as he took in his surroundings, fascinated to be right there in the very place where Robin Hood and his men once camped and made their plans.

"Aye. This is it, indeed." Gisborne said. I'll go over to the bunks and take a look inside. You have a look around the camp and see what you can come up with." he instructed.

"Very well, Sir Gisborne." Luke nodded.

As Gisborne dismounted and secured his horse to a tree, Luke followed suit, then began to walk around searching for any clues. Soon he found a fire pit. He advanced closer to it, then knelt down to it holding his right hand a few inches above the center of it. There were coals there from wood that had burned, and he felt some warmth still emanating from them. He stood and walked a little farther from the camp. He walked another forty yards and came across a very large oak tree. He'd never seen a tree as gigantic in size as this one. The trunk was hollowed on one side of it.

He stepped inside of it and was amazed at the size. Why — a person could actually live in here if they so desired! There were several hooks fastened to the inside of this enormous tree trunk. He walked over to examine them.

And there was the evidence. Someone had been here, indeed! He went back to share his findings with Sir Gisborne.

"I found nothing in Hood's old bunks." Guy said. "Curses!" he exclaimed as he kicked at a tree stump with his boot.

"Well, someone has been here, Sir Gisborne." Luke said with his eyebrow quirked over his green blue eyes, knowingly.

"You found something, Luke?" Guy asked, his curiosity suddenly piqued.

"Indeed. Firstly, the wood coals in the fire pit are still warm. Secondly, I found that gargantuan oak tree that has a hollowed trunk. I stepped inside. There is fresh kill hanging on the hooks inside there. Indeed, the blood is still dripping from the rabbits hanging on the hooks within." Luke said.

Guy walked over to him and patted him on his back. "Well done, lad! It was you who suggested we search the forest, and it is you who has found the evidence we need to continue to pursue our search efforts here." Guy said.

"All I found is evidence that someone has been using this camp for hunting. We don't, in fact, know who that someone is for certain." Luke replied modestly.

"Very few people venture into the forest, Luke. They stick to the Great North Way for their travels. Only outlaws tend to venture deeper into the forest. I'd say there is a high probability the men we're looking for are the ones who have been using this camp." Guy explained.

"I suppose that makes sense, Sir Gisborne. Perhaps we should wait here, hidden from view, but, close enough to get to them and make an arrest?" Luke suggested.

"Indeed. I had the same thought, lad. Let's go out into the periphery a bit, but, not in the direction of Locksley's Larder. That is the name for that gigantic oak tree you found." Guy said. He frowned. "I hate that the tree is named for him." he shook his head and sighed. "The point is when they return, they might go to the tree to get one of their kill for cooking. We'll be seen over there and they may get away from us."

"Indeed, Sir Gisborne. You lead the way and I'll be at your side." Luke nodded.

On their way to their horses they were passing the fire pit. Luke spotted something that looked out of place, tucked close to the log that was sitting near the fire pit. The object was a whitish colour. He didn't notice it before. It appeared to be parchment paper. As he got closer, he bent down to pick it up.

He unfolded it. It was a letter of some sort. He began to read it. His jaw flew agape.

"You coming, Luke?" Guy called from about ten feet away.

"Oh, no!" Luke exclaimed.

Guy heard his exclamation, turned around, and took note of the look of horror on Luke's face. He started walking closer to Luke. It appeared that he had something in his hand he was looking at.

"What is it, lad? You found something else?" Guy asked him.

"Indeed, Sir Gisborne. This is very troubling. You had best read this." Luke said as he handed the parchment to Guy.

Guy took it and read the note scrolled on the parchment.

"What in the devil?" Guy exclaimed.

"Exactly. What, indeed!"

"I honestly can't picture the lady writing this, Luke. Why on earth would it be here anyway? Out here — at Hood's former camp, in the middle of the bloody forest. This is not a coincidence!" Guy exclaimed.

"No, Sir. It is surely not." Luke agreed.

Luke thought about it a little more and suddenly had a disturbing thought. He hoped he was erroneous in where his mind was taking him, but, he decided to share it, notwithstanding.

"Sir Gisborne?" he asked.

"What is it, Luke?" Guy pressed him.

"Sir, what if… that short ginger haired bloke was not referring to objects, but… a person?" Luke hinted.

"What do you mean, Luke?"

"He told myself, Drake, and Adam on two occasions, something to the effect of, "Tell the Sheriff to keep an eye on his belongings." He said he was watching it, too. He also commented he was in Nottingham to see a maiden." Luke said, with his eyebrow quirked knowingly.

"Wait… you think — "

"Sir, what if he wishes to harm the Sheriff's lady — for revenge, because he thinks the Sheriff killed his sister? I'm not being funny, Sir Gisborne, but, I'm getting a very bad feeling about this." Luke said, his eyes downcast.

"I suppose it's a possibility, Luke. It looks like a lady's handwriting, though. Although, I'm not understanding how in the devil it ended up here." Guy said.

"It is, indeed, suspicious as hell, Sir." Luke said.

"Indeed. I will show this to my cousin at my evening report. I'd like you to accompany Duke Farnsworth and myself for that tonight, Luke. Your work on this mission has been a great help to us." Guy said.

"Very well. Thank you, Sir Gisborne." Luke nodded.

"Now let's continue with our plans to observe the camp from a safe distance for any signs of life should that stumpy bastard return." Guy said.

As they reached their horses, Officers Mordrid and Gerad appeared. Guy and Luke shared their findings with them, and showed them both the note.

"This is certainly suspicious, Milord." Mordrid said. "Any thoughts on this?" he asked as he passed the note back to Guy.

"Luke had an idea about it. I think it's worth mentioning to the Sheriff." a beat. "It's not good." he said with his eyebrow quirked.

"If you think they've been here, Sir Gisborne, what is your plan now?" Officer Gerad asked.

"Follow us, men. We're going to wait for the bastard to show up. They've definitely been here." Guy said.

Guy and Luke mounted their horses, then Guy led the men to an area in the periphery about forty yards north east of the outlaw camp. If Hamon and his friend were returning here they'd be coming from the south, since the man announced he was keeping an eye on something belonging to the Sheriff. Naturally, Guy assumed that if they returned they'd be coming from the south of their current location — from Nottingham. They chose a spot that gave them a clear vantage point of the camp, yet still concealed them amongst the trees.

In the afternoon, Rhiannon was dressed to head outside to the gardens. She fastened her black velvet cape she wore over her gown, grabbed her large leather bound book, and slipped the Sheriff's flask filled with water into the pocket of her cape. She walked out into the den toward the door and opened it.

Ladies Meridwyn and Isabelle were standing there before her. Meridwyn had her left hand poised to knock on the door and held a basket in her right hand. Whatever was in the basket was covered by a very large, pristine linen handkerchief.

"Oh! My sweet sisters!" Rhiannon exclaimed. "Isabelle! I've missed you." she moved closer to embrace her, but, then she stopped short. She sighed. "Should you be out of your quarters? Shouldn't you be in quarantine just now, Isabelle?" Rhiannon asked, bewildered to see her so soon.

Lady Meridwyn's eyebrow shot north over her twinkling sky blue eyes, and looked to Isabelle.

"You want to tell me about that, honey? What's this about quarantine?" she took a few steps back.

"It's grand, ladies. There's nothing to fret about." Isabelle cleared her throat. "The physician cleared my charge I was caring for. There is no contagious illness present, after all." she smiled.

"Wait … what?" Lady Meridwyn asked. "What in heaven's name are you two talking about?" she cast a curious glance to both of them.

"Come in, ladies. We'll talk in here for now until we decide how we'll spend our afternoon together, since… all of our men are busy." Rhiannon said. She held the door open for them and beckoned them to enter.

The ladies strolled through the door and Rhiannon closed it behind them. She placed her book upon a table in the den and turned around to face them.

"Does someone want to fill me in on what you two were talking about?" Lady Meridwyn asked them.

Rhiannon cast a sideways glance to Isabelle.

"Right." Isabelle spoke. "I was covering for Lady Margaret since I last saw you both. She needed to be here, but, her charge needed care. At one point, the medicus was questioning… contagion." Isabelle said. She looked downcast and shifted in discomfiture. She hated having to lie to them.

"But, not now?" Rhiannon said.

"No. On his last exam, the Sheriff's medicus ruled it out." Isabelle said.

"When was that?" Rhiannon pressed.

"Early this morning. So, I was brought here, and Lady Margaret resumed the care of this person." Isabelle said.

"Interesting. Which contagion did he think it was, initially?" Rhiannon asked her.

Isabelle had already thought of this, that her sister in law might ask what the hypothetical contagious illness was supposed to be. Robert had told Isabelle that Rhiannon wouldn't let up with her barrage of questions she fired at him yesterday. She was beginning to completely relate.

"Black death." Isabelle answered without hesitation.

"Well, lets hope he's right that the charge does not, in fact, have it. My God!" Meridwyn exclaimed. She moved further away from Isabelle.

"Indeed. Let us hope he is right, and that his initial suspicion was, indeed, wrong." Rhiannon sighed. "You sure you shouldn't be in quarantine, Sister? What if the medicus is wrong? He's not perfect."

"Aye. All is well, ladies. Do not fret. The charge is improving… slowly." Isabelle said quickly, then she gazed at the torch ensconced on the wall.

"So, Lady Margaret is no longer staying at the castle then. Am I correct?" Rhiannon asked.

"Yes. That is correct. The physician is on stand by should you need him, dearest." Isabelle said.

"Oh, that is grand!" Rhiannon smiled.

She went to her sister in law and embraced her tightly.

"Isn't that grand, Meridwyn? We're all together, at last." Rhiannon smiled.

"Indeed, my dear." Lady Meridwyn smiled. "So, are either of you feeling a little peckish just now? I brought treats!" she smiled and nodded to the basket in her hand.

"What have you got there, Meridwyn?" Isabelle asked.

"I brought… those wonderfully delicious mini venison pies. We also have a large flask of wine, some cheese, and grapes. Isn't that marvellous?" Meridwyn exclaimed.

"Oh, indeed, it is!" Rhiannon agreed. "Tell me. Is the weather fair? Should we take it outside to the gardens or should we enjoy that in here?"

"It's rather chill, Rhiannon. I travelled back to the castle earlier." Isabelle said.

"Alright. Let's go and sit upon the bed then. It's very large. We can just relax on that and enjoy our spread there. There's fresh air coming in through the windows, and plenty of pillows to get comfortable with. To hell with the rules." Rhiannon winked at them.

"That sounds grand, dearest. Why not?" Meridwyn said.

"Indeed, That sounds absolutely delightful!" Isabelle agreed.

Rhiannon grabbed three goblets from the table in the den, and motioned for them to follow her. Then she led them into the Sheriff's private chamber. They got comfortable on the bed, and Meridwyn lifted the linen handkerchief. She grabbed the large flask of wine to begin pouring.

"Will you be having some, Meridwyn? I have water in a flask. It's in the pocket of my cape, if you prefer. I was going to take it to the gardens to sip there, but, this is a much better plan." Rhiannon said.

"Normally, I wouldn't. But, we are celebrating. Isabelle has returned to us. You're feeling well, and I won't spoil our amusement, honey." Meridwyn winked.

"Grand!" Rhiannon exclaimed.

Meridwyn poured some wine into the goblets and passed them to Rhiannon and Isabelle.

"A toast. To the ladies of Nottingham Castle." Rhiannon said as she held her goblet out toward them.

"Indeed!" Meridwyn agreed as she took a sip.

"Oh, this is marvellous, Meridwyn! What a lovely flavour, indeed." Isabelle said.

"Yes. It is quite lovely, isn't it? I haven't enjoyed a goblet of wine in ages. Not even at my wedding." Meridwyn said.

"Then you need to catch up." Rhiannon winked.

The Sheriff had just come into his den. He decided to stop by this afternoon to see how his lady was faring. He wasn't sure, but he thought he heard giggling coming from behind the door to his private chamber. What in the devil? He quietly walked toward the doors, put his hand on one of the doorknobs, and softly opened it.

He stifled a chuckle at the scene before him.

Ladies Rhiannon, Meridwyn, and Isabelle were seated on the bed. They appeared to be enjoying some sort of a picnic; all of them flushed in colour, no doubt a reaction to whatever they were drinking out of their goblets.

He cleared his throat. The ladies looked toward the doorway and saw him standing there.

"Oh, hello, my love! My sisters and I are just sharing an afternoon spread of treats." Rhiannon smiled.

"Yes, my dear. I see that." the Sheriff grinned.

"Would you like some wine, George? We have plenty." Meridwyn said.

"No. You ladies enjoy. I just came to see how my lady was faring, and it seems she's doing quite well." he said as he glanced at his betrothed.

Rhiannon smiled at him and took a sip from her goblet. "I'm fine, George. I couldn't be better." she said.

"That is good to hear, my dear." he said. He looked to Isabelle. "I'm surprised to see you here, Lady Isabelle. I thought you'd be with your husband since I granted him the day off."

"Yes, That was the plan, Milord. But, then I ran into Meridwyn. We decided to surprise Rhiannon. Robert then decided to go back to the armoury." a beat. "Since he's back in the armoury today, would it be possible he could take time off on the morrow?" she asked.

"I don't see why not. You are having a much needed visit with my lady today, and Robert has worked very hard. Yes, you tell him when you see him he has been granted time off for tomorrow." he smiled.

"Oh, that is grand! Thank you ever so, Milord." Isabelle nodded.

"For God's sake, Isabelle! You needn't be so formal with him. Haven't I taught you anything?" Meridwyn sighed as she took a sip of wine from her goblet.

"It's not like I know him all that well, Meridwyn. I can't yet call him by his given name. And I can't call him "Master Nottingham", since he is a nobleman." Isabelle said. She hiccuped, and covered her mouth with her hand. "Oh, dear." she sighed.

The Sheriff looked downcast and covered his mouth to conceal his chuckle.

"You better have some more of that wine, honey. If you hold your breath when you sip it, it should work." Meridwyn said.

Rhiannon arose from the bed and left the ladies to speak to her betrothed. She excused herself, telling them she'd return in moments.

She walked through the doors of the private chamber, and the Sheriff closed them behind her. She stood facing him, with her back against the doors.

"Did you really just come to check on me, my love?" Rhiannon asked.

"Yes, my angel." he moved closer to her and pulled her into an embrace. "I could tear that gown off of you right now." he whispered huskily.

She reached up and caressed his face. "Patience, my love." Rhiannon whispered.

"You sure you're well, my angel?" the Sheriff said as he kissed her neck.

"Yes, George. I am well. I have never been weller!" she giggled. "Alright, maybe I have been weller. I mean… well. In some of our moments together." Rhiannon smiled.

"Yes. That is because you're drunk, my lady." the Sheriff grinned.

"Yes. I should say I am!" Rhiannon said. She frowned in contemplation. "Is "weller" even a word?"

"No. But, it's quite alright, my lady. I'm the only one who heard it." the Sheriff said.

"Thank you for granting my brother a day off tomorrow. It means so much to me to spend some time visiting with Isabelle today." Rhiannon said.

"I know, my lady. It's fine. I won't keep you. I have some tasks I need to get back to." he said.

He pulled her close to him and kissed her passionately. He left her breathless at the end of it.

"Hold onto that thought, my lady. I shall see you next this evening. Save some of this energy for me." the Sheriff winked with a salacious smirk.

Rhiannon watched as he made his exit and walked through the door of the den. Then she turned around, and opened the doors of the private chamber.

"Now, ladies. Where were we?" Rhiannon said with a laugh.

It was late afternoon, getting close to the gloaming when Ancel returned to camp. He stopped at Locksley's Larder to grab a rabbit to prepare it. He was going to skin it, cook half of the meat, then dry the remainder of the meat in the Larder. He didn't know where Hamon was. He hadn't seen him since dawn. He was glad for the peace anyway. He had made a decision.

As soon as he dealt with the rabbit, he was going to grab that cursed note and take his work of forgery with him to Nottingham Castle. He was going to request a meeting with the Sheriff of Nottingham. Surely it would serve to illustrate his explanations of why it took him until now to come forward? He was cautiously optimistic, but, he fully expected to spend some time in the dungeon. If that's what it would take to prove him worthy he would do it. He had no other choice. He was going to a put a stop to the scheme that Hamon was plotting.

"Uhh, Sir Gisborne. Lads! Do you hear that?" Luke whispered with his left hand raised in the air.

"I don't hear anything." Mordrid whispered.

"All I can hear is those cursed wind chimes!" Gerad muttered in annoyance. "Who could make out anything with those things blasting through the air? It's a miracle that Hood and his lot, and now these two survived in here. I'm shocked you found rabbits in the Larder, Luke. Those chimes would scare away the wildlife!" he whispered.

Gisborne rolled his steel blue eyes at Gerad, then looked to Luke.

"What do you hear, lad." Guy whispered.

"I hear rhythmic crunching noises. Like autumn leaves and twigs being crushed. It's footsteps, Sir." a beat. "Requesting permission to dismount and investigate the matter, Sir Gisborne." Luke whispered.

"Granted." Guy whispered with a knowing glance.

Luke dismounted from his horse and headed toward the direction he heard the footsteps coming from. The sounds were coming from the direction of Locksley's Larder, the giant oak tree that Luke stood inside of earlier.

The men watched with varying degrees of astonishment on their faces as they kept watch. For, they had not heard the sounds that Luke was hearing. They were curious to see if this would give them a lead.

"Well, this oughta be interesting." Mordrid whispered as he pushed his flaxen locks from his face.

"What in the devil is he doing? He's still a new recruit, for God's — " Gerad was interrupted. His raven hair lashed in the wind that had kicked up.

"Let's just see how this plays out, lads." Guy whispered firmly to them. "He has saved the Sheriff's lady once before. He just might do once again. Now, pay attention. You, in particular, Gerad. Zeus knows you might just learn something!" he spat. "Hands on your swords. Be ready!"

"I know you. You're with that ruddy, ginger haired bloke." Luke said quietly, yet firmly as he surprised the man. The man looked up and made eye contact with him.

"Yes. But, not for the reasons you think." Ancel said. He nodded to Luke's leg. "My apologies for that. I didn't draw blood that night in the tavern, did I?" he asked.

"What? Explain yourself." Luke said. He sighed. "Drop everything you're carrying, including your weapons. Now!"

Ancel obeyed, and completely stunned Luke with what he said next.

"Take me to him. I insist. I was actually planning to visit Nottingham Castle shortly. I was going to request a meeting with the Sheriff." Ancel said. He never broke eye contact when he spoke.

"You have got to be jesting right now!" Luke spat.

"No. I am not. I just needed to retrieve something that Hamon left behind. I need to take it with me to show the Sheriff." Ancel said.

Luke pulled a length of rope from the pocket of his surcoat as he moved closer to the man. He wasn't going to take any chances in case the man was bluffing. Luke grabbed him and used it to tie the man's wrists together in back of him.

"What? You mean that note from the Sheriff's lady?" Luke asked.

"Indeed. Except, she didn't write it. I did." Ancel said.

"What? You can't be serious." Luke said as he began to lead the man back to Gisborne.

"It was the only thing I could think of. I know his plans. I needed to stop him. He wants to harm the Sheriff's lady." Ancel said. "I need to explain this to the Sheriff."

"Well, you'll have your opportunity for that now. As a prisoner." Luke said. "Move!"

Officers Mordrid and Gerad stared at the scene coming into focus before them, in disbelief. Luke had one of them in custody!

"Well, well, well. Who have we got here, Luke?" Gisborne inquired.

"He's with that ruddy, ginger bloke, Sir. You might want to hear what he has to say. We've got a real live character here, Sir Gisborne, and I'm not being funny about it." Luke said as he nodded to Hamon's comrade.

"Where's the stumpy bloke then?" Guy asked the man Luke was holding.

"That, I do not know. But, I do know his plans. How soon may I meet with him? The Sheriff, I mean?" Ancel asked.

"How does dusk sound to you?" Guy remarked facetiously. "Alas, it is soon upon us." he gestured to the darkening sky. "We best be on our way."

"Alas, I cannot ride with my wrists restrained." Ancel said.

"No, but, you can walk." Luke said. He pulled another length of rope from the pocket of his surcoat and dangled it in front of the man.

"I was afraid you'd say that." Ancel sighed.

Gisborne chuckled.

Luke took one end of the rope and fastened it to the rope binding the man's wrists. Then he wrapped the other end of it around his own left hand, and mounted his horse.

"Don't worry. I won't make you run." Luke sneered.

"Alright, lads. Onwards to the castle." Gisborne said.

The men began to make their way south toward Nottingham with their prisoner in tow.

Three hours later the Scribe was at the door of the Council Quarters announcing to the Sheriff the arrival of his Lieutenant, and his Captain of the Black Knights for their evening report of their search efforts.

The Sheriff walked toward them after the door closed behind them.

"Well, What have you got for me tonight?" the Sheriff asked them, although, he wasn't expecting a positive reply.

Guy and Duke Farnsworth looked to each other and grinned. Then they looked back to the Sheriff.

"A gift, Cousin." Guy smirked.

"Wait… you have him?" he asked.

"Not quite. But, close!" Guy said.

"If you have a lead, tell me, Cousin." the Sheriff said.

"I will, Cousin. But, first — "

"Hold on. I'll go get him." Duke Farnsworth said. He turned and went to the door, opened it, and was gesturing for someone to enter.

The Sheriff was watching him, curiously. Then Officer Luke appeared in the doorway, and was led inside by Duke Farnsworth.

The Sheriff looked to his Captain and his Lieutenant, curiously.

"Officer Luke has been most helpful on this mission, Cousin. He is the reason we have a very good lead to share with you this evening." Guy said.

"You want to tell me about this, Luke?" the Sheriff said to his newest member of the Black Knights.

"It is really nothing, Milord Sheriff. We divided into groups of two. Sir Gisborne and I found Hood's former camp. We found evidence the outlaws had been there. Mordrid and Gerad found us after we gathered evidence, then we all waited for a time for the outlaws to return." Luke explained.

"Alright. What evidence, in particular, did you find?" the Sheriff pressed him.

"It is of no consequence now, Milord, because it has since been proven that they have, indeed, been hiding out at Hood's former camp. But, there's one thing we want to show you." Luke hinted.

"What is that, Luke?" the Sheriff asked.

"It's right here, Cousin." Guy said as he pulled a folded parchment from the pocket of his surcoat. He passed it to the Sheriff.

The Sheriff took it, unfolded it, and began to read.

"Tuesday, October 21st, 1197, Anno Domini

Rebeccah;

I regret to say I am unable to see to the manor this day.

I am getting better. Do not fret. Look for me, quite possibly, in a sennight hence.

Be well.

- Lady Rhiannon."

"What in God's hell is this? I'd know my lady's handwriting anywhere, and this is not it!" the Sheriff spat. "You found this at Locksley's former outlaw camp?… What?"

"Yes, Milord. Where in the camp I found it, and how, is of no consequence. But, whom actually wrote it is. We have him here, Milord." Luke said.

"Whom?" the Sheriff asked impatiently.

"The friend of that ruddy, ginger bloke, Milord. He wrote the letter." Luke said.

"Wait… what?" the Sheriff shook his head.

"He was insistent on seeing you, Cousin. Told Luke he was, in fact, on his way here tonight to request a meeting with you." Guy shrugged.

"That is true. He told me he wrote the letter. It was part of some strange scheme to thwart the ginger bloke with his plan. The ginger bloke, according to his mate, is apparently more dangerous than we expected." Luke hinted.

"Would someone tell me how my lady's name got thrown into this mess?" the Sheriff demanded.

"He told Luke that the stumpy bloke is plotting to harm Lady Rhiannon. He says he was trying to put a stop to it, and was coming here to share everything he knows with you. He said that was his plan. But, then Luke got to him, so, we have him waiting outside the door to speak with you." Guy said.

"Aye, we have him in custody, my Lord Sheriff." Luke nodded.

"Well, isn't this interesting?" the Sheriff sighed.

"I'll say, my Lord! I have never heard of the likes of this in all of my years working for you." Duke Farnsworth commented as he shook his head. "Guy and Luke briefed me on this once we made it into the castle. Even your lady's brother and sister in law attempted to resist arrest, and they did nothing wrong, as it turned out. But, this bloke — he not only obeyed all commands, he was cordial about it, too!"

"He has quite a tale to tell, Milord. Though, he has only told us bits of it." Luke added.

"I'm sure." the Sheriff said curiously. "Am I correct in thinking you were the one he spoke with the most, Luke?" the Sheriff asked his Officer.

"Yes, I believe so, Milord." Luke nodded.

"Yes, Cousin. That is correct. He told me very little. The first thing he asked was how soon could he meet with you." Guy said. "I'm still trying to sort that one out." he closed his eyes briefly and shook his head in disbelief.

"No doubt! This is a first, indeed." the Sheriff replied. The Sheriff looked again to Luke. "What is your assessment of him, lad?"

"It's very odd, Milord. This one appears to be truthful when he speaks. He was very compliant. Obeyed my command to drop everything including his weapons. At first I thought his demeanour was a total bluff. He had an opportunity to escape, instead he just stood there and allowed me to restrain him. He never fought me, and maintained eye contact as he spoke." Luke sighed. "You might want to listen to him. It's a strange turn of events, my Lord Sheriff, and I'm not being funny about it." Luke said with a sigh.

"Alright. I want all three of you to remain here while he speaks. Let us all decide if this man is being straight with us or not." the Sheriff said. "Go get him, Luke." he said to his Officer.

Luke nodded and turned toward the door.

"Bring him to the door, Mordrid. The Sheriff is ready to see him now." Luke said as he motioned for Mordrid to come forward with the prisoner.

Mordrid handed off the prisoner to Luke and waited outside the door. Luke gently grabbed the man by his arm and led him inside. Mordrid remained in the hall, and closed the door for Luke.

"My Lord Sheriff." Ancel nodded.

"That remains to be seen." the Sheriff said. He clasped his hands together and walked closer to the prisoner. "I hear you have quite a tale to tell me?"

"Not a tale, Milord. Actual facts." Ancel hinted. "Uhh, this may take awhile to share with you."

"I have nothing else on my schedule today. Begin then." the Sheriff said keeping eye contact with the prisoner. He noted that the prisoner did not seem uncomfortable with that.

"Alright. Where to start?" Ancel said.

"You can start by stating your name." Luke said, firmly.

The Sheriff was pleased with his Officer. He smiled at Luke then looked back to the prisoner.

"My name is Ancel. I am from Portsmouth. I have known Hamon for two years. Some months ago he told me he wanted to come to Nottingham to visit his sister. I asked to join him because I had reasons of my own for coming." Ancel said.

"Right. And what reason would that be?" the Sheriff pressed him.

Ancel looked downcast and sighed. Then he looked back up into the Sheriff's piercing, amber hazel eyes. "I am a bit embarrassed to say, especially now." he sighed again.

"As embarrassing as consorting with that stumpy bastard?" the Sheriff remarked as his eyebrow shot north. "Come. Let's hear it."

"Well, Milord, even then my plan was to come here to request a meeting with you. Long before Hamon's character turned dark and he started exhibiting signs of madness." Ancel began.

"You're serious. You wanted to meet with me… back then? Why?" the Sheriff demanded.

"I was planning to meet with you to pitch to you my skills, and to… request a position, serving as one of your Black Knights." Ancel said. He looked downcast.

The Sheriff's jaw dropped in utter astonishment. It was very seldom Nottingham reacted with an expression like this one.

Guy and Duke Farnsworth burst into uproarious laughter.

Luke widened his eyes in disbelief, but, other than that, he didn't react. He was interested to hear more of what this man had to say.

"Surely, you jest!" the Sheriff finally spoke.

"No, Milord. I do not." Ancel said.

"Dear Zeus, men! We best sit down for the rest of this. If this is a ruse, at the very least, we shall have an amusing tale to commiserate about over a goblet of spirits." the Sheriff said. He gestured to the table.

The Sheriff, Guy of Gisborne, and Duke Farnsworth all took a seat at the table. Luke led the prisoner closer to the table.

"You take a seat, too, Luke. This might take awhile." the Sheriff said.

"Milord, with all due respect, I think he should sit, as well." Luke said, nodding to the prisoner beside him. "I made him walk with us as we rode back to the castle. He will have more energy to continue his story if he sits."

"Alright. You have a good point, lad." the Sheriff nodded. He looked to the prisoner. "Be seated." he said to him.

Ancel obeyed then looked across the table to the Sheriff and his men.

"Tell me, Ancel. How has it taken you this long to come forward, if indeed, your ambition was to meet with me all along?" the Sheriff asked him.

"When Hamon discovered his sister's home had burned, he was distraught. At that time we were mates. But, soon, an obsession started with him. A very disturbing one, Milord. My loyalty to him waned shortly after the time he came to you demanding answers." Ancel said. He paused a moment, took a breath and continued. "I have been gathering intelligence since then, Milord. I figured you had added me to your wanted list. So, all I could do was to do everything I could to stop him. And now that I know everything he is planning, I still made my decision to come to you. I was, in fact, coming here tonight to request a meeting with you. Even knowing you'd take me as a prisoner, more than likely, I had to try. He has to be stopped, my Lord. For, he has gone from docile to dangerous from the moment he saw Hestia's burned property."

"In what way?" the Sheriff asked.

"Milord, he wants to harm your lady. He plans to murder her — in a fire. In his twisted mind, that is his way of getting revenge." Ancel announced.

The Sheriff felt sickened just then. He leaned in closer, curious to hear more of what this man had to say. Mortianna was correct with her vision. It all ties in! Could this still be a bluff, though? He was beginning to think, like Luke, perhaps this man was being straight, after all?… What?

"I see. Alright. Tell me more. And what of that note you say you forged to make it look like my lady penned it?" the Sheriff asked.

"It all started when I happened to meet your lady's servant, Rebeccah, at the local market." Ancel began.

And so, he started from the beginning. He explained how he got acquainted with Rebeccah, then would report some things Rebeccah told him to Hamon in order to pacify him. He told the Sheriff how Rebeccah had said that Lady Rhiannon generally dropped by on Tuesdays to check on her home. He went on to explain that Hamon was pressing him to take him to Lady Rhiannon's manor yesterday, despite Rebeccah telling Ancel the lady had been ill recently. He described for the Sheriff that yesterday morning while he was hunting, the idea came to him to forge the letter, that he kept it on his person. Then when the time came he had to take Hamon into town that he instead led Hamon to an abandoned home several miles in the opposite direction of Lady Rhiannon's manor. He could not have Hamon know where Lady Rhiannon once lived, and where Rebeccah was staying. Then he went on to explain what happened when he got there, that he pretended to be visiting Rebeccah, then, once he saw Hamon, he passed the forged letter to Hamon.

"I couldn't have him know the true location of your lady's manor, Milord. He poses a great danger. He not only planned to murder your lady, but, Rebeccah, as well. Indeed, Milord, he is completely out of control. He needs to be stopped." Ancel said. He looked downcast.

At this news the men all looked at each other with expressions of bewilderment. There was a sense of disbelief, and some admiration, as well. For, if Ancel was being truthful, then he had accomplished far more than any Black Knight ever had.

"Well… " the Sheriff muttered. "You have me at a loss, Ancel. I'm actually at a loss for words just now, and these men here can tell you — that seldom happens with me." the Sheriff said.

"Indeed, my Lord." Duke Farnsworth said. He looked to Ancel. "If this is not some clever tale you're telling us, then you have done something that none of us ever have in order to gather intelligence. You consorted with him, pretended to be his ally, but, you were playing him." the Duke looked back to the Sheriff. "If he's being honest, this is a remarkable strategy, indeed."

"How can we be certain you're not playing us, too? That this is not some sort of elaborate ruse to gain our trust so that you can go back to your stumpy comrade, and assist him in his real plan?" Gisborne demanded.

"Well, quite honestly, you can't right now, Milord. All I can say is, he is not my friend. I will not be a part of his twisted plan. That is the reason I was planning to come here tonight, anyway. It was good timing, because, as you know, Hamon was absent from the camp." Ancel explained. He then looked to the Sheriff. "My plan was to come here, because I did what I could to stall him for another sennight. He's unpredictable now. And, Milord, you needed to be aware of this plan of his. I seriously need your help to stop him."

"Indeed. This is quite a dilemma. I do wish you had to come to me sooner, but, I sort of understand. I think…" the Sheriff said. He cleared his throat. "When was the last time you saw your former comrade?"

"Today at dawn." Ancel replied. "I have no idea where he went off to."

" I see. And how did you get him to believe that my lady was the one who penned the letter? Even though your penmanship has quite a flourish to it… "

"Truthfully? I honestly believe he thinks I'm illiterate, Milord." Ancel replied.

"Interesting. Why do you think he thinks that of you?" the Sheriff pressed.

"Because I've been playing the part of the fool to him, Milord. I kept my tactics to myself. No one knew my ambition was to meet with you about possibly joining your militia. He had no idea of my reason for wanting to come to Nottingham. I didn't frame it as a desire of mine to come, instead I offered to accompany him. The plan was to go my separate way once we arrived here. But, when he found his sister's property burned, I put that plan on hold initially, out of sympathy for him." Ancel explained.

"Remarkable!" Duke Farnsworth said. "This sort of strategy is unheard of. Imagine consorting with criminals in order to investigate them?" the Duke said to the men.

"Indeed. If this is true, I wish I had thought of it." Guy muttered.

"It wouldn't work with you or Milord Sheriff, Sir Gisborne. You are both too well known." Luke said.

"Not if they changed their appearance to blend in with the outlaws." Ancel said to Luke.

The Sheriff and Guy cast glances at one another, then both looked back to Ancel.

"Alright. Is there anything else you wish to share?" the Sheriff asked Ancel.

"I believe I've covered everything, Milord. Thank you for your time." Ancel said softly and looked downcast.

The Sheriff was taken aback by that. Indeed, he was astonished over this entire meeting. The man behaved more like one of them then an outlaw. He couldn't believe it!

"I'm going to have my Officer, Luke, escort you back to the corridor, Ancel." the Sheriff said to him. Then the Sheriff looked to Luke. "Hand him back over to Mordrid, and then return here directly, Luke." he instructed.

"Very well, Milord." Luke nodded.

The two men arose from their chairs, and Luke followed the Sheriff's directive. Moments later, he returned to the Council Quarters, closing the door behind him. Luke rejoined the men at the table.

"Well, gentlemen. I don't know about you lot, but, I need a drink. I'm not talking about water, either." the Sheriff said with a knowing glance.

He arose from his seat and walked over to a desk. He never used the desk except to store objects in the drawers. He opened one and pulled a flask of brandy out of it, and took it to the table. He poured a small measure into four goblets and passed the goblets to his men.

"We have a decision to make. And after that bizarre meeting, I don't think a sip of brandy will do us any harm." the Sheriff said.

"Indeed, Cousin." Guy agreed as he took a sip.

"I need to know — who of you believe what he said?" the Sheriff asked his men.

"I'm still quite astonished, myself. I think I need another sip of this brandy, my Lord." the Duke said as he raised his goblet to his lips.

"I'm on the fence, Cousin. I think I need another sip of brandy, too." Guy said.

"And you, Luke? What say you?" the Sheriff asked his Officer.

"I'm leaning towards believing him, Milord Sheriff." Luke said.

"It is curious that the very first question out of his mouth was how soon could he meet with you, Cousin. I swear, I nearly fell off my horse when he asked that." Guy said. He shook his head. "Come to think of it, that was the only question he had for me."

"Yes. That is rather noteworthy, Cousin. Indeed!" The Sheriff agreed.

"I'm astonished, still." Duke Farnsworth commented. He took another swig of brandy from his goblet and added, "I mean, this bloke is either the greatest thespian in the world, or, just plain brilliant."

The Sheriff put his goblet to his lips, sipped generously of the brandy, then looked to Luke.

"Enlighten us on why you tend to believe him, Luke." Nottingham said.

"Milord? What does my opinion matter? I don't make the decisions." Luke said.

"No, but, you contribute." the Sheriff said.

Nottingham stood, holding his goblet, and walked toward the window. As he glanced out of it into the dark sky, and to the torchlit courtyard down below, he spoke.

"I am a perfectionist, Luke. I didn't used to be. I made mistakes with Locksley, because I was led by emotion — anger, and jealousy, rather than logic." he took another sip of the tincture of rapture as he continued to gaze out of the window, his back to his men, and continued. "Perfection is what I strive for now. So, I listen to my best men, and my Advisors."

The Sheriff quickly turned to face them, His boots didn't even lift off the floor. He focused his attention on Luke.

"You are among four of my best men. You are sitting with two of them. The other is in the corridor minding our prisoner. I'd ask him to join us, but, firstly, I gather he had little to do with Ancel, and secondly, he's the only one left out there I trust to manage him should the prisoner attempt escape." the Sheriff sighed, then raised his left eyebrow in a knowing glance. "Thus, your opinion is helpful to us right now. The rest of us are too busy picking our jaws up off of the floor to have an opinion. So, tell us your thought process of how it is you're leaning toward believing him." the Sheriff said firmly.

"Alright, my Lord. Well, let's look at the facts. He was forthright straightway; he maintains eye contact, speaks with ease; his timing of events make sense; he was compliant when I surprised him, never resisted me; asked to see you straightway when meeting Sir Gisborne; walked several miles and spent several minutes explaining everything, without hesitation to you." Luke stopped when he noticed the stunned faces of all of them. He hoped he hadn't just insulted his Sheriff.

"I hate to say it, but, you do make sense." Guy said.

"Yes. I concur." the Sheriff agreed.

"He also apologized to me for pointing his dagger at me the night at the tavern when I came across him and the ginger bloke, with Drake and Adam." Luke added.

"Unbelievable. If I weren't here witnessing this, I'd be hard pressed to believe it." Guy said.

"If this bloke is for real, you may have just found your fifth investigator, my Lord." Duke Farnsworth said.

"It is late men. I need to talk more with him before I decide if he is worthy of that position. I can't release him, but…" the Sheriff mused as he stroked his beard.

"Surely not the dungeon, my Lord? Does he really warrant a stay in there?" the Duke asked Nottingham.

"There is one alternative." Luke said.

"What is that, lad?" the Sheriff asked him.

"Do you have an empty room? If so, keep him in there. Have the door bolted, and guarded. It would be up to you if you would wish to restrain him inside the chamber, Milord Sheriff." Luke suggested.

"It sounds fine, and I do have an empty room. I've never kept a prisoner in one of my rooms, though!" the Sheriff huffed.

"Would he really be your prisoner, though, Milord?" Luke pointed out.

"He did express a desire to join the Black Knights. How many men can you think of have requested a meeting with you to express a desire to work for you?" Duke Farnsworth asked.

"Aren't they usually appointed, Milord?" Luke added.

"The answer to you, Duke, is: none." the Sheriff said. He turned to Luke and said, "Yes. All were appointed, or asked to join, such as yourself. No one has ever asked me for the position."

"No matter how you decide to house him tonight, I'll say one thing. If he's right about the stumpy bloke's plan, we can completely bypass the Bishop's involvement, and thus, avoid a lengthy tribunal. Plotting murder moves the case from a matter of the church, to a matter of the law." Guy pointed out.

"Indeed, it does." the Sheriff said. "So, men, do we believe him? I say to proceed cautiously. In truth, I was never as interested in him, as I am with his former comrade."

"Indeed, he must prove himself yet before we can trust him. But, based on what we heard tonight, and my conversation with him, I'm leaning toward believing him." Guy said.

"Definitely be cautious, my Lord. It appeared that he was being truthful. There were none of the telltale signs of dishonesty one would expect to be present in his answers to you." Duke Farnsworth said.

"Yes. I agree with your summations." the Sheriff said. He looked to his Officer. "Alright, Luke. I'm going to go with the alternative option for holding him here that you suggested. Have my Scribe direct Mordrid to one of the vacant rooms to take our prisoner to. Find me another available guard to man the door of whichever room he is taken to." the Sheriff directed. "I don't want Mordrid to do it, his skills are still needed tomorrow."

"I could guard his door if you wish, my Lord." Luke offered.

"True. You are quite capable. However, you are one of only four investigators on my team. Homely Hamon is still out there, lad. So, I want you to rest tonight. You will be needed on the morrow." the Sheriff said.

"Very well, my Lord Sheriff." Luke replied.

The men arose from their seats and headed out the door. The Sheriff stopped to speak briefly with Ancel once more before retiring to his chambers.

He asked Mordrid to give him a moment with the prisoner. Mordrid stepped away from them to give them privacy.

"I'm sure you won't be surprised to hear me say this, but, you will be staying here tonight." the Sheriff said.

"Oh, right. In the dungeon. That's, fine, Milord. I fully expected — "

"You are certainly different from any prisoner I have ever encountered." the Sheriff remarked as his left eyebrow shot north, curiously. "No, Ancel. You will not be put in the dungeon."

Ancel swallowed. Was he going to be tortured instead? He closed his eyes and shuddered, just slightly. He always endeavoured to conceal fear.

"You will be staying in one of my vacant rooms." the Sheriff said.

"Wait… seriously? Is that how you torture people? In a room where not even your jailer can see it?" Ancel asked. He looked downcast, for, he realized he misspoke.

"There will be no torture. You will sleep in there. With one of my sentry guarding your door." the Sheriff said.

"What?"

"Mordrid shall take you there. We need to talk some more, but, first, we both need rest. I will have a tray sent to you, and there will be one for you in the morning, as well. Sometime after your morning tray is delivered, we shall speak again." the Sheriff said.

"Oh. Very well. Thank you, Milord Sheriff." Ancel said.

The Sheriff nodded and went on his way.

Some time after that he was strolling into the den of his private chambers. He went to the table to grab his brandy and poured a libation in his goblet that was placed beside the flask. He didn't often partake at the end of the day, but, he often found that a few sips relaxed him enough that it would clear his mind. Clearing his mind gave him better focus when decisions needed to made, or how to manage particular matters. He needed some clarity at the moment.

Nottingham took the goblet and walked over to the sofa and placed the goblet on the table in front of it. He removed his surcoat and his doublet and cast them on a nearby chair. He loosened the laces of his black tunic as he seated himself on the chair, one knee raised as he rested his foot against the table, and began to take generous sips of the brandy. He could finally focus on what he needed to ponder.

There was a lot to ponder, like his upcoming nuptials, and deciding when to tell his lady the truth of the matter of their son. His concern over her childbirth survival chances, would she be harmed in a fire, would he end up raising two children without her? These were questions his mind often took him to. But, the immediate matter that needed his attention was how to proceed with Homely Hamon, and should he have Ancel assist in the matter somehow?

He shook his head. He kept wondering if this was some alternate reality he'd stepped into. Like, perhaps a magick spell? He felt like he was in a lucid dream, because if he told anyone he knew about what he just witnessed, nobody would believe it. Nottingham still had trouble believing it, himself. He took one more sip of the brandy, set the goblet on the table, then leaned back into the sofa. He rested his head against the back of it and closed his eyes to shut out everything so he could meditate on the matter. He only had tonight to think on it.

The prisoner, if he could call him that, used remarkable strategy to investigate this Hamon character Nottingham was after. Was there any rule in place indicating that a man could only be appointed or asked to join a Sheriff's militia? A few years ago, the Sheriff would likely have not bothered to listen to what Ancel had to say. But, this was different, and so was the Sheriff now.

He paid attention to the man from the moment Luke escorted him into the Council Quarters. Ancel maintained eye contact throughout the meeting, never showed fear, spoke directly and was forthcoming the entire time. He expressed concern for public safety — Lady Rhiannon and Rebeccah. And who knows what else the stumpy bastard would get up to if Ancel never said a word, and Hamon was able to accomplish his plan? From everything Ancel said, and his actions when Luke confronted him and arrested him, it highlighted the point of what the Duke had said: he may have just found his fifth investigator.

The Sheriff felt a mixture of disbelief, and awe over the strategy Ancel used to investigate Hamon. He stayed with Hamon, partly because he was sure he was wanted by the Sheriff, yet, mostly it was to stay steps ahead of Hamon. The Sheriff was impressed that Ancel was able to think fast, and led Hamon far away from Rhiannon's manor when Hamon was putting pressure on him.

Perhaps this fellow did possess what it takes to be one in the Sheriff's Black Knights? Indeed, the Sheriff had never heard of anyone in the land using the strategy that Ancel employed in order to investigate an outlaw. Duke Farnsworth was right. Ancel was either a thespian, or a bleeding genius.

Some moments later Rhiannon came through the doors of the private chamber to greet him.

"George?" she whispered from three feet away.

His eyes flew open and he saw her standing before him.

"Oh, my lady. I didn't hear you come in." the Sheriff said. He arose from the sofa and stood before her.

"Are you alright, my love?" Rhiannon asked.

"I'm fine, my lady. Just having one of those 'What in the devil just happened?' moments I'm mulling over, regarding a peculiar meeting I just had." he said.

"Must have been quite exhausting. You look tired, my love. Can you tell me a little about it?" she asked.

"Well, I could, but — then I'd have to kill you." the Sheriff smirked.

"Uhh… okay? What an odd thing to say." Rhiannon frowned.

"Just an expression to illustrate a point, my dear. I can't discuss it because it involves an active investigation. You know how it is." he said.

"Yes, I suppose I do." she said.

"You are a sight for my tired eyes, my lady." he whispered.

"So are you. The way you were reclined just now. Quite appealing." she smiled.

"How are you feeling now, my lady?" the Sheriff asked. The last time he saw her she was intoxicated.

"Feeling a little bit funny still, but otherwise, fine, George." Rhiannon said.

He went to her and embraced her.

"Let's go into the private chamber and recline on the bed, my angel.

She agreed as he took her hand and led her inside. He immediately flopped on the bed and laid supine upon it, propped against some pillows. She positioned herself on her side beside him. Something was distracting his thoughts.

He put his arm around her and closed his eyes. He thought more about the meeting he just had for a few moments.

"My goodness, George. It must have been quite a meeting you had." Rhiannon pried.

"Yes. It was peculiar, yet productive at the same time." he opened his eyes and turned on his side to face her.

"Forgive me, my angel. I know I told you several hours ago to save some energy for me. Now it is I who needs energy. I'm still a little stunned over what I just witnessed. Indeed, I keep thinking to myself: what in the devil just happened?" the Sheriff sighed as he tried to resist the heaviness of his fluttering eyelids.

"You need rest, my love. It's alright. Close your eyes. It's not like I'm going anywhere." she smiled.

"Indeed, you are a treasure, Rhiannon. I will be more myself tomorrow evening, I'm certain." the Sheriff said.

She smiled and nuzzled closer to him. He was fast asleep in moments.