Chapter 15: The Harvest Festival
Regina knocked on the door to Tuck's workroom, smiling at the friar. He straightened up from his table before hurrying to unlock the lower half of the door. "Your Majesty! To what do I owe the honor?"
"Robin has been suffering from bad headaches as of late," she replied. "The physician believes they are brought on by stress and advised me to keep some chamomile as well as yarrow to brew tea that will help with the pain."
Tuck nodded. "Both are excellent pain relievers. I can give you some. I'll also give you lavender. It can ward off the headaches. Stich it into little packets that you can tuck under pillows and into his clothing."
"I'm not much at sewing." She grew sheepish as she thought of her abysmal skills. Even Irene had to shake her head when she saw Regina's inability with a needle.
"I'm certain someone will help you with that. The Queen Mother even," Tuck suggested, handing her some sprigs of lavender along with the chamomile and yarrow.
Regina took the packet, nodding as she considered asking Catherine. "Thank you, Tuck."
"Of course," he replied, bowing. "If you ever need anything, do not hesitate to come down."
She nodded before glancing around. They appeared to be alone but she lowered her voice anyway. "What about the other thing we asked you?"
Tuck checked around, closing the doors. He still spoke in a low volume, just to be safe. "I'm still looking. The Dark One is tricky. The best thing I can find is trying to renegotiate your deal."
"He wants me," she replied with a sigh. "I doubt he'll renegotiate for anything."
"I wouldn't advise it either. There are stories that he usually asks for someone's first born."
Coldness gripped her heart and she pressed her hand against her stomach, despite the fact there was no child growing there yet. "That's worse than him wanting me."
Tuck nodded. "I thought the same. Don't worry, though. I'll keep looking. We'll find something, Regina, I promise you will stop the Dark One."
"Thank you," she said, hugging him. "I am glad Robin and I have you on our side."
She opened the door, surprised to find Robin standing there. His arm was raised and his hand was balled into a fist, looking ready to knock.
"Ahh, there's my beautiful bride." He kissed her cheek. "Someone told me they saw you coming in here."
"I was just asking Tuck for some of the items the physician instructed us to get," she replied, holding up her bounty. "And then some."
He chuckled, wrapping his arm around her waist. "Thank you, Tuck."
Tuck nodded. "Anytime, Robin. I hope it helps your headaches."
Regina thanked Tuck before taking Robin's hand. They walked back up to the palace together as a strong cold wind blew past them. She shivered and stepped closer to Robin. "The summer is definitely over."
"Yes, it is," he agreed. "I'm having warmer clothing made for us. We should have some of it soon but your cloak is ready now. It's waiting in our rooms."
She smiled before it faltered. "I wish I could go see it but I have tea with some of the ladies now. Can you take these back to the room?"
Robin took the flowers and herbs from her, nodding. He then kissed her cheek. "Don't let them get to you, lovely. You're their queen and they should be honored to have tea with you."
"I will remember that." She cupped his cheek before giving him a quick kiss. "Your whiskers are coming in. Perhaps have Tink shave you."
He rubbed his cheek. "I don't know. I was thinking of perhaps growing them out into a beard. What do you think?"
She tilted her head, trying to imagine him with a beard like his uncles and other Sherwoodian men. "I don't know. I'll have to leave it up to you."
Robin kissed her again before heading back toward their rooms. She checked her reflection in the mirror, patting the pins that held her dark hair up in a bun as Chloe entered the room.
"Hello, Chloe," Regina said, turning to face her. "How are you this day?"
She sighed. "I fear I might be getting a cold with the change of weather."
"Sorry to hear that. The temperatures are dropping, aren't they?" Regina asked, rubbing her arms. Even the brief walk from Tuck's had her chilled.
"Happens every year," Maggie said, entering the room. She gave Regina a sympathetic look. "You'll get used to it soon."
Chloe frowned, shaking her head. "I was born in Sherwood and I am not used to how fast the weather can change."
"I like the cold weather," a third woman said, crossing the room. She was older, closer in age to Catherine and Maggie, with graying blonde hair and a sophisticated air about her. Approaching Regina, she curtsied. "I am Lady Elizabeth, Duchess of Hutton."
"Pleasure to meet you," Regina replied, bobbing polite curtsy. "Welcome to our tea."
"The pleasure is all mine," Lady Elizabeth insisted.
Chloe looked around, frowning. "Is You-Know-Who coming?"
"Lady Ellis? Yes, I invited her." Regina frowned as well. While she knew Lady Ellis would only give her a headache, there were also some valuable lessons Mother had taught her, such as keeping one's enemies close.
"Lenora is coming? Is she giving you any trouble, dear?" Lady Elizabeth asked. "I know she often gave Queen Catherine trouble. Eleanor and I tried to convince her to throw Lenora out…"
"I think Catherine wanted to keep her close to keep an eye on her," Maggie replied before giving Regina a knowing look. "Something I feel is still going on."
Regina didn't respond as Lady Ellis blew in. Her face was red and her hair looked a mess, frizzy and untamed out of its usual net. She pointed to it. "Look at this!"
Maggie cleared her throat. "Do…Do you want a few minutes to brush your hair? I'm certain Her Majesty will grant it."
"Of course," Regina replied, remembering herself. She tried to sound as gracious as possible. "Take however long you need. We won't serve the tea until you join us."
Lady Ellis huffed. "It's not something that can be fixed with a brush. My hair is falling out!"
Regina was stunned into silence. Lady Ellis' blonde hair seemed as thick as ever. "Are…Are you certain?" she asked.
"Quite," Lady Ellis replied tersely. She held up her fist, a chunk of blonde hair inside it. "See?"
That took Regina back, for it wasn't just the usually few strands that ended up falling out or pulled out by brush. It was a substantial amount, enough to cover a small doll. "Have you spoken to the royal physician?" she asked, concerned for Lady Ellis.
"This isn't something the physician can fix! I have been cursed by someone who doesn't like me," she replied, eyes focused on Regina.
Regina's stomach tumbled as the other ladies tensed up. Lady Elizabeth recovered her voice first. "Certainly you aren't accusing Her Majesty of being a witch?"
"We've all heard the rumors," Lady Ellis said. "She's working with the Dark One! Perhaps she has a love spell on the king and that's why he's so devoted to her."
"He's a Locksley. All Locksley men are utterly devoted to their wives. No magic necessary," Maggie pointed out.
Lady Ellis sniffed. "I know it's her. She's trying to embarrass me because she's threatened by me."
"It sounds like you're more threatened by her," Lady Elizabeth retorted. "You did not lose your hair because of magic. Go see the physician and leave the accusations against the queen at the door. Understand?"
"Fine. Don't come crying to me when she curses you next," Lady Ellis huffed. She then stormed off, leaving behind four surprised women.
Chloe cleared her throat. "Well, that was unexpected. Should…Should we go after her?"
Maggie shook her head. "I think it's best if we let her sulk for a bit. We can still have tea, though, if Her Majesty wants."
"Tea sounds wonderful," Regina said, trying to put the episode with Lady Ellis behind her. She turned to Lady Elizabeth with a wide smile. "I'd love to get to know you, Lady Hutton."
"I would love to get to know you, Your Majesty," she replied warmly. "Please, lead the way."
Nodding, Regina lifted her skirts and headed toward one of the parlors so they could proceed with their tea. Her spirits were high now that she didn't have to worry about Lady Ellis and the afternoon promised to be a pleasant one.
Regina wrapped a shawl around her as she and Robin returned to their rooms following another state dinner. She pressed herself closer to him and he wrapped his arm around her, holding her to share his body warmth. He kissed the side of her head. "Almost there, lovely, and then I'll make us a roaring fire."
"I don't know if I'll make it the entire winter," she said, shivering. "Maybe I am too delicate coming from good Southern nations stock."
He chuckled. "This is only your first winter, my love. I'm certain you're heartier than you know. We'll make a Sherwoodian of you yet."
Regina chuckled as well as he opened the door, bowing. "After you, milady."
"Milord," she replied, stepping past him.
He wrapped his arms around her once the door was closed, holding her against his chest. "I'm going to build you a surprise in our room. You wait here and I promise I won't let you freeze."
"Well you better be fast if you want to keep that promise," she teased, kissing his cheek before he pulled his arms away from her.
A chill settled into her bones as Robin slipped into the bedroom. She crossed over to their liquor cabinet, pouring herself a generous helping of whiskey. It would warm her up better than the cordial they had served at supper, she knew. She downed the amber liquid happily, feeling a warmth start in her core and then spread through her blood.
"Are you done in there yet, love?" she called out to her husband, taking another sip of her whiskey.
"Almost," he called back.
Curious, she wandered into the bedroom. There was a nice roaring fire in the hearth, its warmth more efficient than the whiskey she was still drinking. Robin knelt in front of the fire in his bathrobe, spreading out a large fur on the floor. She raised an eyebrow. "What are you doing?"
"I thought we could sleep down here, right in front of the fire," he said, though he wasn't meeting her eyes.
She knelt, making sure to mind her skirts around the fire. "Robin…?"
He sighed. "Alright. I was hoping we could make love in front of the fire."
"You could've just said that," she replied, inching closer to him as she held out the glass of whiskey to him. "I hope you would know that I don't think we can only do that in bed. Especially after all those times in the bathtub."
Robin shrugged, taking a sip of the whiskey. "I don't know. I'm still getting use to this whole marriage thing as well, lovely."
"I think you're doing a wonderful job of it," she replied, taking the glass back for another sip. "And I would love to make love to you in front of the fire. It's very romantic."
"Then why do I feel like I'm negotiating?" He sighed as he took a sip of the whiskey.
She scooted closer, pressing herself against him. Taking the glass, she downed the rest of the amber liquid inside before setting it aside. "Let's stop talking, how's that?"
He grinned, cupping her cheek before kissing her. She moaned into it, tasting only the whiskey they had drunk, as she grabbed onto his nightshirt. They pulled each other closer, melding their bodies together.
"Undress me," she whispered, eyes still closed as she stroked his hair. "Please."
She felt his fingers undo her laces and her dress loosened, sliding off her. Regina kicked it away from the fire, not carrying if it wrinkled. All she wanted was out of her remaining layer of clothing—stays, hosiery and shift.
Robin made quick work of it, his fingers hot when they brushed against her chilled skin. She felt the heat from the fire start licking at her and sighed as he laid her on the soft furs. He hovered over her, smiling. "Better?"
"Much," she replied, tugging on his nightshirt. "But now you're overdressed for the occasion."
He swatted away her hands. "Not yet. I want to have you writhing and gasping out my name first."
"Still negotiating?"
"Not really, no," he replied, kissing her stomach. "More like me tending to your every need."
She moaned, his words spreading warmth throughout her body and sending wetness flooding between her legs. "I love you."
He grinned, the same silly smile he always had whenever she let those three words slip from her lips. "I love you too."
Robin pushed her legs gently and she opened to him, her stomach already flipping with anticipation of what was to come. When he pressed a soft kiss to her clit, her hips bucked and she gasped. It was going to be a very good night, she knew.
He licked at her, his tongue teasing her clit and her entrance as she tried to get purchase on the furs. She brought one hand up to her breast, teasing her own nipple as he sucked at her clit. It assaulted her senses on several fronts and her mind was already spinning while her body hummed.
Robin's tongue worked its magic and she felt she was close. As a fire more intense than the one in the hearth promised to explode inside her, she gasped out: "I'm gonna…I'm gonna…"
One more broad lick had her undone and she moaned out her release. Robin kept licking and sucking as she rode out her orgasm, knowing it was only the first of the night.
He laid down next to her, blocking out the fire with his body. Robin propped himself up on his elbow, smiling down at her. "Is my queen pleased?"
"Almost," she rasped, rolling closer to him. "Her king is still overdressed."
"Then he shall remedy that." Robin knelt and pulled off his nightshirt, tossing it onto the bed.
Regina sat up to admire the way the shadows caused by the fire danced across his toned chest and half-hard cock. He grinned at her, fingers grazing her cheek. "Now is my queen pleased?"
"Very," she replied, wrapping her hand around his cock. "And now she wants to please her king."
He smirked before kissing her, his fingers tangling in her hair. She began to stroke him lazily as she nibbled on his lower lip. Robin opened up eagerly, letting her tongue enter his mouth. His tongue rose to meet hers as their hot flesh was pressed together in front of the fire.
Robin fell backward, landing on the fur as she straddled him. His strong hands held her steady at her hips while she gently ran her nails across his chest. She toyed with some of his coarse chest hair before flicking a nipple, drawing a hiss from him. "Pleased?" she asked.
"Yes," he replied. "Don't stop, my queen. Please."
"As my king wishes." She aligned her entrance with his cock as she brought his hands up to her breasts.
He gave them a gentle squeeze before his thumb played with her nipples. "I love your breasts."
"I know," she moans, sliding her slick folds over his cock and taking him inside her. She takes a deep breath, once again adjusting to the feel of him.
Regina began moving, bracing herself on his shoulders as she did so. His cock brushed her clit just the right way and his hands on her breasts sent her mind reeling. She moaned again as she adjusted her angle, letting his tip brush against that perfect spot inside her. "Robin…"
"Like that," he moaned. "So good, my queen."
She picked up her pace, fighting her urge to close her eyes. Regina wanted to watch Robin this time, to see what he looked like when he came inside her.
He closed his eyes, his mouth opening wide as he arched into her. Beads of sweat rolled down the side of his face and she felt her own prick at her eyes. She wiped her eyes, clearing so she could watch him as she felt him getting closer and closer.
Regina knew her own release was close as well. She moaned his name as he let out a strangled cry. "So good, Regina," he gasped. "So good."
"Come for me, my king," she said, surprised by her own boldness. She smirked. "Your queen orders it."
He let out a strangled cry as she felt him release inside her. She continued to ride him hard and fast, her own release building. Her fingers tightened on his arms as she cried out his name, head spinning as stars appeared before her eyes.
She collapsed on top of him, her limbs feeling like jelly. "Did you enjoy that?" she asked in a whisper.
"I did," he whispered back, gathering her hair and pulling it off her shoulder. He pressed a kiss to her shoulder.
Her eyes began to flutter closed and she felt drowsy between her orgasm and the warmth from the fire. Robin pressed another kiss to her shoulder. "Sleep, lovely."
She nodded, curling up against him. He continued to press kisses to her shoulder as she drifted off to sleep.
Knocking woke Regina up the next morning. She raised her head groggily from Robin's shoulder, groaning. "Who could that be?"
"I don't care," Robin moaned. He lifted his head, eyes still closed and yelled: "GO AWAY!"
"Oi! Keep yelling like that and I'll just take my wife and go back to that lovely little chateau we left. You can be your own secretary!" Will's muffled voice came through the door.
Robin sat up, eyes wide. "Will! Hang on and we'll be right out!"
"That's more like it! I'll be waiting out here for you," he replied.
Laughing, Regina sat up and kissed her husband's cheek. "Excited that Will and Ana are back?"
"Yes," he said, standing up and stretching. "I've missed them."
She pulled her knees up and crossed her arms on top of them, resting her chin there as she studied her happy husband. He looked relaxed, something he didn't look like very often nowadays, and she commented on it.
He turned his gaze to her, still as adoring as ever. "This is because of you, lovely," he told her. "Don't think otherwise."
"Last night was very relaxing," she agreed, taking his hand. He hoisted to her to her feet, pulling her against his body before kissing her. She melted into it, enjoying the feel of his heated body against hers.
There was another knock. "If you two are having at it in there, I'll just come back. I'm not going to be an audience to that!"
Robin broke the kiss, pulling back with a huff. He scowled as he repeated to himself: "I'm happy he's home. I'm happy he's home. I'm happy he's home."
"My dress is a bit more complicated than we thought," she yelled, winking at Robin. "Once we figure it out, we'll be right there."
That seemed to appease Will and they quickly pulled out outfits to wear. Robin helped her into her dress, which did have complex lacing in the back. Tink, though, had most of it worked out so that he could easily lace her up. She focused on pinning up her hair as he finished getting dressed himself.
When they stepped out, Will was sitting on their couch. He grinned at them. "About time, you two!"
"Sorry," Regina said, before rushing toward him with open arms. "Welcome back, Will. We're both so glad you're home."
He hugged her tightly as he chuckled. "Ana and I missed you two too."
"How is my cousin?" Robin asked, giving him a stern look.
"Well, I might be biased, but she looks as happy as Regina does." Will smiled at them, happy as well.
Regina stepped back, leaning against Robin as she smiled up at him. "I'm certain you have made her as happy as Robin has made me."
He kissed her head before turning back to Will. "Where is Ana? Perhaps we could have breakfast together."
"That's why I came to get you," Will replied. "I left my beautiful wife with her parents and your mother to come invite you to a family breakfast."
"Well, we shouldn't keep them waiting, should we?" Robin said, taking Regina's hand. He motioned for Will to lead the way. "After you."
Will shook his head. "I want to hear about how you ended up in the river because I wasn't there to watch your foolish self."
Robin sighed. "I am going to kill John for telling you."
"You do you know someone would've told me eventually, right?" He raised an eyebrow. "So, tell me the story."
"It upsets Regina," Robin protested weakly, though she knew it was the truth.
She nodded, supporting him. "I don't like to think about how close I came to losing him."
"Then I'll discuss it with Robin later," Will replied. He gave his friend a hard look. "But we will discuss it."
Robin rolled his eyes as he opened the door. "After you, my love."
She kissed his cheek. "He's just worried about you," she whispered. "We all care a great deal for you."
"I know, I know." He kissed her before they stepped inside to join the rest of his family for breakfast.
Regina was very glad to have Ana back. Ella was a cheery companion who could put her in a good mood and Chloe was always willing to help Regina with whatever she needed. Maggie was much like Catherine and Eleanor—a more matronly figure who mentored Regina—and Lady Elizabeth was starting to edge into that category as well.
Ana, though, was a friend, confidant and a guide. Having grown up in court as a member of the royal family, she knew everyone and everything. She whispered information into Regina's ear, allowing her to be a knowledgeable queen and connect more with the nobles who still didn't accept her. Most of all, though, she was someone Regina felt she could tell everything to—especially the things she couldn't tell Robin.
"Ana, I need to speak with you," Regina said, catching the woman's arm after dinner one night. "In private."
"Of course." Ana looked concerned but she guided Regina into an empty room, closing the door behind them. "What's wrong?"
Regina wrung her lace gloves in her hands, her stomach doing flips. "Robin is hiding something from me and I'm concerned about it."
Ana furrowed her brow. "What do you think he's hiding? Certainly not an affair."
"No," she replied, certain of one fact. "Your cousin is loyal and his love is true. I know he has not looked at another woman the way he looks at me since I've come to Sherwood."
"So then what do you think he's hiding?"
Regina sighed, shrugging. "I don't know. I know it must be something serious for he's very grave sometimes, when he thinks I'm not looking and he allows himself to get lost in his thoughts. It worries me."
"Understandable," Ana said, nodding. She took Regina's hands. "I will see what I can find out but keep in mind, I may have no more luck than you. My cousin is an open book and hates keeping secrets. If he's not telling you something, it must be for a greater purpose. Or someone is not letting him tell."
"Would the council forbid him from telling his queen something?" Regina asked, knowing that they still did not care for her. Yet she found it difficult to believe Robin would then follow their order to not tell her something.
Ana shrugged. "I don't know. All I can promise is to do my best. For now, you're just going to have to trust Robin."
"I do," Regina replied, her heart hurting. "I just hate not knowing what's troubling him. How can I comfort him?"
"I am so glad he found someone like you." Ana hugged her before tugging her hand. "Come, before our husbands start to worry."
Regina took her arm again and they left the room. As they sought out Will and Robin, she prayed that whatever it was her husband was keeping from her wasn't as serious as she feared.
Tink laid out a gorgeous gown made of gold brocade with a skirt embroidered with red and orange leaves. Brown fur lined the cuffs and little pearls were sewn into bodice's square neckline. Regina ran her fingers over the fine dress as she stood in the several petticoats she had already donned to give the skirt the proper voluminous look. This was the finest dress she had worn since her wedding gown and she wanted to make certain everything was perfect.
"I feel this dress embodies autumn itself," she said.
"The royal dressmaker topped himself this year," Tink agreed. "Arms up, please."
"How grand an event is this?" Regina asked, holding her arms over her head as Tink slid the dress over her body.
As she tightened the laces, Tink replied: "It's one of the biggest festivals here in Sherwood. People come from all over to Locksley. You and Robin will spend the morning accepting tributes before heading to the festival.
"Let's do your hair. We'll have to do a low bun because of the crown." She motioned to the jewel-encrusted silver crown resting on a velvet pillow on Regina's vanity. It had been brought from the Royal Treasury just for her.
Tink skillfully braided Regina's dark locks as Regina sank in her chair. She had barely begun her day and she was already exhausted. It had been the same the day before, so she had turned in early. Yet here she was, fatigued as if she hadn't had a good rest. Regina prayed she would make it through the day.
"Milady, there is something I wish to discuss with you," Tink said, weaving ribbons into the braids.
Regina frowned. "We've been over this. You can call me Regina. What do you wish to discuss?"
She saw Tink open her mouth but shut it again when Robin entered the room. He grinned at Regina. "You look absolutely beautiful. You'll be the envy of every woman at the festival."
"Only because I'm married to you," she replied, smiling at him. Tink gave her a tight smile and she wondered why her friend had chosen to stay silent. What was did she have to say that she couldn't in front of Robin?
He stood next to Tink. "Are you almost done? Will said the Great Hall is starting to get crowded with people offering tributes."
"What exactly are the tributes?" Regina asked.
"Something from their harvest, so a lot of vegetables and fruits. Last year, one farmer presented Father and Mother with his biggest pumpkin. We had to keep it in the courtyard."
Tink giggled. "I remember that. We ate pumpkin everything for a month!"
"I hope he doesn't bring another one this year. I don't think I could stomach another month of pumpkin," Robin said. Regina had to agree as she swallowed down nausea rising inside her at the thought.
Tink stepped away. "I'll let you do the honors of crowning your wife," she said.
He thanked her before holding a beautiful ruby necklace against Regina's neck, tying it around it. "First, though, I wanted to give you this."
"Robin!" she gasped, running her fingers over the precious jewels. "You shouldn't have."
"Nonsense. It's your first Harvest Festival and I want it to be special. So I went over to the Royal Treasury and looked through the crown jewels for just the perfect accessory." He smiled at her, resting his warm hands on her shoulders. "I am glad you like it."
"I love it," she replied, motioning for him to crouch down. She pressed a kiss to his cheek. "Now, my crown?"
"Ahh, yes," he said, picking it up and nestling it amongst her braids. It shone in the light, making her feel more regal.
Robin helped Regina stand and she took him in. He wore a gold doublet to match her dress and black leather pants, matching his boots. A ceremonial sword rested against his hip and his crown was snug around his forehead. She played with a lock of his blond hair, smiling. "You like quite dashing, milord."
"I pale in comparison to you," he whispered before holding out his arm. "Shall we?"
She stood, taking his arm as they began to head down to the Great Hall. Regina's vision began to swim and her head span as she stumbled a bit. Her grip tightened on Robin's arm as he stopped.
"Regina, lovely, are you ill?" he asked, wrapping his arm around her waist to provide additional support.
"I need a moment," she replied, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. When she opened her eyes, everything was clear. She stood again and smiled at him. "Sorry. The crown still throws my balance off."
He nodded though she didn't feel he was convinced. "Lean on me, love. I've got you."
"I know," she said, leaning against him. She closed her eyes, wanting to fall asleep in his arms right there.
"Regina?" He gave her a little shake.
She straightened up, smiling at him. "Sorry. I am fine. I promise you."
Robin didn't move, frowning at her. "I want you to make me a different promise. If you feel sick, you tell me. We can make the proper excuses and get you some care."
"I don't want to ruin the Harvest Festival," she protested.
"You won't," he insisted, cupping her face. "I need you to promise me. Please, Regina."
She nodded. "I promise to tell you if I'm feeling ill."
"Starting now?" He raised an eyebrow.
"I am tired," she admitted. "It is nothing to worry about, though. We will be sitting for most of the morning, correct?"
He sighed. "Yes, but I will hold you to your promise."
Regina chuckled. "I know you will, love. Now, shall we go before they send a search party for us?"
Trumpets heralded their arrival to the Great Hall as two footmen opened the great double doors. People filled every available space from the furthest corner to right against the red carpeted stairs leading to the throne. The people in back all wore peasant clothing—outfits made from homespun wools or linens. Most were dressed in muted colors and as Regina processed up the aisle with Robin, she noted change in classes by how brightly colored their clothing was and the materials used to make their outfits.
Robin helped Regina sit before taking his own throne. Once he was seated, he nodded at Will, who stood by his side. Will stepped forward and raised his voice so all could hear: "Hear ye, hear ye. Their majesties King Robert and Queen Regina are now seated before this court. Al who have business or grievances are invited to bring them forth."
Several nobles first brought complaints and grievances before Robin, most of them land disputes. He rendered decisions quickly and easily in each matter before focusing on the lower classes. A few merchants brought forth their own grievances, including an older woman who owned a smithy. She was owed for work done but the customer accused her of shoddy craftsmanship.
"He's just trying to get out of paying me, Your Majesties," she said. "I take pride in my work."
Robin was rubbing his chin as he studied the two and Regina knew he was weighing his options carefully. She, though, had a question and leaned forward to ask it. "Maybe we see the item in question?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. I have it right here." The woman pulled out a beautiful wooden box from her bag. At Will's nod, she approached Regina and opened it. Blue velvet lined the inside, cushioning a long dagger with an ornate hilt.
Leaning forward, Robin motioned to the dagger. "May I?"
"Of course, Your Majesty," she replied, eyes downcast.
Robin picked up the dagger carefully and studied it. He frowned before looking to the gentleman who commissioned the weapon. "Can you show me where this dagger is lacking? For it looks perfectly fine to me."
The man stuttered a response but it was still muttered so low, Regina couldn't understand him. Robin frowned as he placed the dagger back in the box. "It seems to me, good sir, that the dagger is satisfactory and that Madam Smithy is right. You are trying to avoid paying her."
"Your Majesty…" the man began but Robin held up his hand.
"Good sir, if the next words out of your mouth aren't an acceptable explanation as to why you cannot pay this woman for her work, I would advise you to keep them to yourself," he warned, anger in his voice. Robin hated when people tried to cheat others and Regina felt a twinge of sympathy for him.
Under Robin's watchful eye, the man paid the money owed for the dagger and took the box from the woman. She thanked both Robin and Regina profusely before producing a lily, handing it to Regina. "My best wishes for your marriage, my queen."
"Thank you," she said, smiling as she held the lily close.
The rest of the people gathered produced their tributes, bringing forth several fruits and vegetables to give to her and Robin. Several also handed her lilies and Regina had a fine bouquet as the morning wore on.
One man brought up a pumpkin that was large and heavy. He set it down and bowed to them. "I apologize, Your Majesty, but my pumpkins weren't as large as they were last year."
"No need to apologize," Robin said, his relief evident to Regina. "This is more than a suitable tribute. Thank you."
The man bowed and walked away as the last family stepped forward, comprised of a man and woman not much older than she and Robin as well as their young daughter. She had dark hair, just like her father, and it was curled with ribbons in it. The little girl clutched wildflowers in her hand, looking up at Regina with shy eyes as she hid behind her mother.
"Go ahead, sweetheart," the father urged her. "Give the queen your gift."
Regina leaned forward and held out her arms. "It's alright, little one. There's no need to be afraid."
The little girl inched out from behind her mother's skirts. She then took a few tentative steps toward Regina, holding out the flowers to her. "For you because you have black hair just like mine!"
"Thank you," Regina replied, taking the flowers. "You are a very beautiful little girl."
Beaming, the girl climbed into Regina's lap. Her parents rushed forward but both Regina and Robin urged them to stay back. She cuddled the girl close to her, letting her study her face and hair. As she did that, she told Regina about how the girls back in her village said that she was beautiful because she didn't have golden hair like them.
"Well, I think they are just jealous," Robin said, leaning over the armrest of his throne as he grinned at the little girl. "I happen to find black hair very beautiful. You and Her Majesty are perfect examples."
The girl leaned against Regina more, trying to hide herself as she gave Robin a shy smile. "Truly?"
He nodded. "If those girls tell you that you're not beautiful, you tell them that His Majesty the King has proclaimed that all girls are beautiful, no matter their hair color."
"I will," she said. She then kissed Regina's cheek before hopping from her lap, returning to her parents.
As Regina sat up straighter, her head began to spin again and the room grew blurry. She felt like her head was going to float away and she reached a shaky hand to Robin, who took it with a squeeze.
"Regina? Is something wrong?" he asked.
"Dizzy," she whispered back.
He squeezed her hand again. "Will, can we break for the day?" she heard him ask.
"Yes," Will replied. "They were the last for today. I can bring the session to a close."
"Do it," Robin ordered, rubbing his thumb over the back of Regina's hand. "Hold on, my love. We're almost done."
Will's voice was only just a mix of tones as his words failed to pierce her mind. She just clung to Robin's hand until he stood, helping her up. Regina leaned against him, blackness creeping into her vision. "Robin," she gasped.
He tightened his arm around her, almost carrying her from the Great Hall. "It'll be alright, Regina. I've got you."
Those were the last words she heard before the blackness took over and she went limp in his arms.
When Regina came to, she had been cradled in Robin's arms as everyone stood over her. The royal physician was examining her, determining it was her body getting used to the colder weather in Sherwood and lack of hearty foods. "Make certain she eats lots of meat and hot broths," he told Robin. "We'll have her body adjusting in no time."
Robin insisted that Regina spend the rest of the day in bed. "You rest. Mother and I will handle opening the Harvest Festival," he told her as Tink took off her gown.
Disappointment flooded Regina as well as the fear she was letting him down. "I want to be there for you, with you," she said.
"I know." He took her face in his hands, looking her right in her eyes. "I want you there too. But I want you healthy more. So please, just rest today. The festival goes on for five days. We'll have plenty of time together."
He kissed her forehead and then left her in Tink's care. Regina did as he asked, climbing into bed and falling asleep almost immediately. She woke a few times to eat at Tink's request and when Robin climbed into bed himself. He wrapped his arms around her and she drifted off again, happy to have him with her.
She threw up the next morning but hid it from Robin and Tink, cleaning the basin in the water closet herself to do so. Regina let Tink put the dress back on her and she clung to Robin's arm as he led her down to the Harvest Festival. She was determined to make it through it this time and was grateful she only wore a thin gold coronet around her head.
Trumpets once again heralded their arrival and people cheered as they passed out of the palace's main gate and into Locksley. Guards kept them from pressing around her and Robin, though she was able to pluck flowers from well-wishers, gathering a nice bouquet as they headed further into town.
"What does milady wish to do?" Robin asked, rubbing her hand.
She smiled. "I do not know. What does one do here at the Harvest Festival?"
"Well, we can peruse the vendors, try some food, or try our hand at the feats of strength," he said.
"I do not think this dress would be practical for that last one," she said, tugging gently on her skirt. "Perhaps we could peruse the vendors, as you said?"
"Of course, milady," he said, guiding her toward the main street. Regina had only ever ridden down it and it felt strange to walk it now.
Several wooden stands were set up along the dirt road, all offering different wares. She spotted several types of material as well different little trinkets. Regina tugged Robin's hand toward one that sold glass items, watching as the proprietor blew glass in the presence of the people gathered around him. It amazed her that something as sturdy and hard as glass looked like water.
"My husband's family has been blowing glass for several generations," his wife explained. "They take pride in their work, Your Majesties."
"As well as they should. I can tell he is an expert craftsman," Robin praised.
The woman beamed with pride. "Thank you, Your Majesty."
Regina tugged on Robin's sleeve. "We should purchase something," she whispered. "Perhaps those wine glasses?"
"Whatever my queen wishes," Robin whispered back, motioning for Will to handle the transaction.
The woman thanked them profusely, grasping Regina's hand as she bobbed a curtsy. Regina smiled, thanked her for the glasses and then walked away with Robin. He chuckled. "I think you made that woman's year."
"I am glad," she said, happy that she was able to attend the festival…until she caught a whiff of something that had her stomach turning. "What's that smell?"
She glanced around, spotting several people turning a fat pink pig with an apple in its mouth on a spit over a fire. Bile rose in Regina's throat and she barely made it past Robin's boots, throwing up in nearby bushes as their little party blocked her from the view of the people at the festival. Robin held her, rubbing her back as she continued to vomit.
"We need to get her back to the palace," she heard him say. "I need a path cleared where no one will see her."
"I'm fine," she gasped out, still hunched over and dry heaving.
His grip on her tightened. "No, you're not. And you're going back to the palace. No arguments."
Regina didn't give him an argument until they were safe in their rooms. She crossed her arms and glared at him. "I don't need to be coddled, Robin, nor do I need to be hauled out of festivals like a petulant child."
"You were throwing up in a bush," he said, voice low and tense. Anger radiated off him. "You told me you were fine. You lied."
"I was fine," she said, because she had been once she had thrown up earlier. "It was the smell of the pig."
His frown deepened. "No one else smelled anything, Regina. You're sick and shouldn't have been out."
"I told you. I am fine." Regina resisted the urge to stamp her foot. It was childish and she was certainly not throwing a tantrum.
"Regina, please stop fighting me on this," he said. "Just go lay down and do everything the physician told you. Please."
"Why? Why do you not believe me when I say I am not sick?" she asked, tears pricking her eyes as she tried to figure it out.
He paused before sighing, his shoulders sagging. "Because you are like me. We both will put our own health secondary to other things and I will not let you get worse because of it. I…I can't lose you, Regina."
"You're not going to," she insisted.
"There's no guarantee on that," he replied, grasping her shoulders. "I know how quickly someone can be taken. I couldn't bear it if this turned into something worse, something you couldn't recover from."
She sighed, softening under his words. His fear was understandable for she had it about his headaches, scared they might be indicative of something far more serious than stress. So despite her desire to return to the festival, she held out her handkerchief. "Well, since I can't be there to support you in person, promise you'll wear this as a token of my favor in the feats of strength."
"It would be my honor." He moved one hand to cup her cheek, kissing her forehead. "Thank you, Regina."
Tink came in to check on her a few hours later, looking hesitant. Regina frowned, putting down her book. "What's wrong?"
"Remember yesterday I wanted to discuss something with you?" Tink asked.
She nodded, still curious about why her handmaiden had dropped it once Robin had entered the room. "Is something wrong?"
"No," she replied quickly. "I don't think so. It's just…Your courses. They haven't come."
Regina blinked a few times. She had been so busy since the storms, she hadn't really paid attention to it. "Oh. Well, I have skipped a month here or there. Nothing to be alarmed about."
"It's been two since you didn't get it yesterday like you were supposed to," Tink said. "I didn't want to say something in front of His Majesty so as not to get his hopes up, but with all your symptoms…"
Regina's stomach fluttered and she pressed her hand to it, wondering if it was the first stirrings of Robin's child. They had agreed not to rush into parenthood but were also enjoying being newlyweds, relishing each other any chance they got. It was possible she had conceived already.
"Is there a way to know?" she asked, feeling off-kilter with uncertainty.
Tink nodded. "I sent for the Widow Lucas. She's a very knowledgeable midwife and discreet. She's waiting in the antechamber for you."
Regina scrambled out of bed, accepting her robe from Tink as she hurried into the next room. Widow Lucas sat on the couch, wearing a dark blue dress and a matching blue cape over her shoulders. Gold frames were perched on her nose and she studied Regina over them. "Your handmaiden has told me your symptoms and her suspicions."
"Can you confirm if her suspicions are true?" Regina asked, sitting next to the woman on the couch.
Widow Lucas nodded, gray curls bobbing, before turning to Tink. "Pour some wine into a glass. Something you wouldn't mind tossing afterwards."
"Why?" Regina asked, frowning as Tink hurried to get the midwife what she asked for. The woman only smiled in response.
Tink returned with a glass of wine. "Will this do?"
"Perfect," the midwife said before looking back at Regina. "Do you need to use the water closet, my dear?"
Regina had been drinking tea and had a bowl of broth since arriving back at the palace. While she didn't need to rush to the water closet, she was starting to feel the first stirrings and so she nodded. "Why?"
"Well, it's not going to be easy, but I need you to urinate into this glass of wine. If you're with child, it will tell us."
Swallowing, Regina stood. If it was the only way to get her answer, then she was going to have to do it. "Tink, I think I'm going to need your help, if you don't mind," she said.
"Not at all," her friend said. "I'll follow you to the water closet. We'll probably have to leave the door open."
"I'll stand guard and make certain no one walks in on you," Widow Lucas assured Regina. "Good luck."
With a deep breath, Regina marched into her bedroom and headed straight for the water closet with Tink in tow.
Robin returned at sundown, whistling as he entered their rooms. "I won at swords and archery but I fear I was bested in wrestling," he called out.
"Is anything broken?" Regina replied, her nerves on edge as she put aside Snow's latest letter.
He chuckled. "Nay, milady. I am as whole as I was when I left you. Though there may be a few new bruises on my body. I haven't had time to check but there was a spot on my side that definitely felt sore earlier."
"I believe I will have to give you a thorough examination, milord," she replied. Only silence greeted her and she bit her lip, waiting.
Robin appeared in the doorway, slack jawed and wide-eyed. He clutched the letter she had written him earlier and she saw it shook in his hands. "Regina…Truly?" he asked.
She nodded, climbing out of bed. "Truly."
He let out a little laugh, gathering her into his arms and holding her close. She buried her head against his neck as she felt something wet hit her own. When Robin spoke, his voice quivered and she knew it was his tears. "I love you."
It had been only a short letter, nothing floral and filled with grand pronouncements of her love. She had written just two sentences that changed their lives forever.
Dearest Robin,
My sickness is not caused by the oncoming Sherwoodian winter but rather by the newest heir to the Sherwoodian throne.
I am with child.
A/N: I researched how medieval women detected pregnancy. Most of them didn't know until the baby started moving at around month five but there were a few tests used. Peeing into a glass of wine was actually one of them! Science has proven that there is an enzyme in a pregnant woman's urine that does interact with alcohol, so it appears this was one of the more reliable tests from that period.
Thank you to everyone for your patience. I know that it's been over a month but I was focused on submitting to the OQ Advent Calendar. Check it out—all the gifts so far have been absolutely amazing! Our fandom has many creative and talented people in it.
Well, fandom, this is it. Our beloved Outlaw returns tonight. I know that it's only for a few episodes but it's more than we had thought back in May. I don't know how this is going to end but I do encourage everyone to let Adam, Eddy, ABC and Sean know how much you appreciate that Robin is back. Who knows? Maybe we can get him back for good.
Fool's hope can work sometimes, after all.
-Mac