Deception

Chapter 2

My father and I, sat quietly in our carriage on our way to Nottingham Castle. None of us spoke a word the entire journey over, or last night. I played with my fingers in my lap, and the hem on my dress. I wasn't very fond of wearing dresses, but since we were arriving at the Council of Nobles I haven't got much of a choice. My hair was neatly tied up and tucked away. The dress of wore was pal blue gown, edged with a gold fabric.

As we made our way into the town of Nottingham, I looked out from the carriage with saddened eyes. Women, children, fathers, all looking thin, exhausted and hungry. On the break of sickness, I just watched as we kept going. The streets quiet, no smiles, or laughter. These people working to the bone, to pay off all the taxes that the Sheriff has enslaved them to.

No more cheers or loud voices for the Wednesday market. Complete silence, only the sound of horses hooves, and the watches of the people as we made our way towards the castle. As my father and I arrived, we saw other nobles arriving as well. I noticed I couldn't see Robin anywhere and I hoped that he wouldn't do anything foolish. The Sheriff wasn't someone to anger, but knowing Robin I'm sure he will.

I smirked to myself slightly as I walked along side with my father into Nottingham castle. I saw from down in the entrance Sir Guy walking along the East corridor looking frustrated, not daring to look down. My eyes followed him before he disappeared further into the castle as I sighed and held my father's arm as we walked. Me easily made our way towards the Great Hall where all the Lords and Nobles chatted and began to take their seats.

I took another look around the room, as I stood behind my father's seat and saw that Robin's chair was empty. I sighed, slightly unhappy I wasn't able to see my good friend again and apologies for last night's rudeness, but knowing Robin he would understand why my father behaved in such a manner. It wasn't long before the Sheriff arrived and the Council began.

"It has been a good month, we have collected 300 pounds" Lord Woodvale announced, as I stood quietly and still behind my father, as I saw the annoyance written on the Sheriff face as deep down I was smirking, but on the outside I was behaving like the innocent girl I was always portrayed as.

"Shh! Would you want to be the king in Antioch? Clue: no. Trying to feed a starving army on 300 pounds? You promise…500 pounds." The Sheriff snapped, obviously annoyed with the failing progress of not getting the extra 200 pounds he was promised. I glanced over at Lord Woodvale as he gulped, obviously unsure of what to say next. I could see that Sir Guy smirking as I bit inside my bottom lip.

"It’s mo’, it’s more than we have ever managed before!"Lord Woodvale stammered towards the Sheriff hoping that he would be pleased at least with some progress. I shuffled on my feet for a moment before standing still once again. I knew this wouldn't be a joyful meeting, not like they ever are.

"Oh, yippee. So the king is starving in the Holy Land and you have failed him, but “it’s more than we’ve ever managed before.” He snarled as he mimicked Lord Woodvale's voice as I saw the Lord take another gulp and shift in his chair uncomfortably. Sarcasim dripped from his mouth as he threw the bag that he was holding in a random direction.

"Robin of Locksley!" A solider announced as we all turned our heads as I kept a straight face when I saw Robin and Much enter the room. Much glanced over towards me as I gave a very slow and unnoticeable nod towards him.