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![HTTYD: Bound In Holy Matrimony (Part 3) [Finale]](http://t.furaffinity.net/36575812@150-1590789002.jpg "HTTYD: Bound In Holy Matrimony (Part 3) [Finale]")
The air was tense at the scene of a once-lively tournament in Nottingham. Many had turned up to witness an exciting archery tournament, the reward for which included a kiss with the famously beautiful Maid Marian. In the end, the victor turned out to be an exceptionally-talented stork, whose abilities had blown everyone watching a way. Little did most of them know that this stranger was, in reality, a disguised Robin Hood. The famed outlaw had been causing a fuss in recent days, leading to a bounty being placed on the head of both him and his close ally Little John. But this didn't stop the citizens of Nottingham from loving the rascally outlaw for his endeavors of taking from the undeservedly rich and giving it to those who needed it more. At times it seemed that this duo was the only thing keeping the town from complete and utter poverty.
Unfortunately, his disguise was seen through by the crooked and greedy Prince John and his snake assistant Sir Hiss. It was just a matter of waiting for the right moment to catch the criminal off his guard. It helped that Robin seemed particularly distracted by Maid Marian, who had been sitting nearby. After being exposed, Robin was assaulted by the prince's guards, far too many for even the crafty fox to escape from.
Now, Robin Hood stood tied up in many thick ropes winding around his torso and arms, while more held his wrists behind his back. A heavy collar had also been placed around his neck, attached to two long ropes that were each held by a guard. He'd been sentenced to immediate execution, much to the horror of all others watching and in spite of the pleas of Maid Marian.
"Please. Please, sire, I beg of you to spare his life! Please have mercy!" she begged, on her knees and emotional at the thought of losing the love of her life.
The prince took far too much amusement from this, however, and in a chuckle asked the vixen, "My dear, emotional lady, why should I?"
Marian showed no hesitation in her response. "Because I love him, Your Highness."
This was certainly not what Prince John expected to hear. Indeed, how could such a lovely, classy young lady be in love with this troublesome trickster? The thought was laughable! But surely enough, the captive fox quickly expressed the same love back for her.
In any other circumstance, Prince John would have been happy to see young love blooming in his presence. And he made these two aware of that. "Young love … your pleads have not fallen upon a heart of stone." However, that was not about to sway him from punishing this man. "But traitors to the crown must die!" he cried out dramatically.
"Traitor to the crown? That crown belongs to King Richard!" Robin bravely spoke out in defiance, fully aware that he could not defend himself from any repercussions while in these ropes. But he could at least go down with some dignity.
"Long live King Richard!"
Robin's call was matched by the townsfolk witnessing this whole ordeal. Despite being on the technical wrong side of the law, Robin Hood was the biggest source of hope for the town of Nottingham. John didn't deserve the crown simply for the abuse of power he demonstrated, let alone the shady way he achieved his power away from his much more fair and just brother.
But Prince John was having none of it, resorting to a childlike tantrum that further proved how he was unfit to rule. "Enough! I am king, king, KING! OFF WITH HIS HEAD!!"
On command, a red-and-black-clad rhino approached the bound fox with a large axe, ready to do the dastardly deed. All the while, the onlooking citizens and Maid Marian looked on with shock, horror, and sadness. They were about to lose someone many of them considered a friend, a hero, and in Marian's case, a true love. She collapsed into Lady Kluck's arms and sobbed, her history with the heroic renegade flashing before her eyes.
It seemed like only yesterday they were but children at play. The dancing lights of the courtyard at the manor Locksley could fill each evening with radiance and warmth, and by morning, its courtyard gardens were rich, comforting, and calm as the sea after a storm.
It was here many an imaginary battle was fought by the young fox Robin, brandishing whatever he could find as his mighty tool of battle. A fallen branch became his mighty sword, an unattended servant's broom became a mighty axe, and his rich green tunic became the armored garb of a great and mighty knight. Whenever he did not have his lessons with whatever tutor his father hired, he would often be seen in the courtyard playing his games and dueling his imaginary foes. His brother, Winstone, served as the main villain, fending off his brother's playful jabs and parries. Despite Winstone having the obvious advantage in size, strength, and years of combat training, he was more than happy to take a dive to make young Robin smile.
“You'll never take me alive, Robin of Locksley!”, he jeered in his best villainous drawl, like something out of a fairy tale reading. “The castle jewels will be mine!”
Robin retorted with a swift jab of his stick. “Not while there is still breath in my body! Have at thee, villainous rogue!”
Winstone let the stick pass in the space between his arm and chest, clutching it close and putting on a very dramatic death for his villainous character, falling back onto the ground and writing in mock pain.
“Ho, I am slain! Felled by the greatest warrior... in all the... land...” His eyes rolled up and his tongue lolled from his mouth as he lay back on the grass.
The young fox kit leaned in close to survey the victory of his game, and secretly to make sure he did not actually hurt his big brother, with no chance of sensing his brother's ambush.
A smile crossed Winstone's face as he suddenly sat upright and wrapped his little brother in a tight hold, somewhere between a hug and a wrestling move. “But what's this? A surprising twist!”
Robin laughed as Winstone reached down and tickled at his ribs, squirming uncontrollably. “Winstone, stop! Ahahaaa! That's cheating!”
“No, that's being smart, kiddo.”
Winstone finally let up, sitting upright and looking down at his winded brother with a smile. “Come on, we got to get you cleaned up. Father will be unhappy if you come to archery practice with your clothes all covered in dirt.”
After getting into a new forest green tunic, Robin and Winstone met with their father down at the small archery range outside of Fort Locksley. Lord Locksley was a tall, regal-looking fox with a powerful presence of warmth, and status practically rippling off of every fiber of his being, to say nothing of his luxurious red cloak. His greying whiskers were thick, like a moustache adorning his soft smile. By his side was another fox noble, seen once or twice but never truly known to Robin, clad in a rich purple robe, chatting with Robin's father politely. Lord Locksley finally looked over to his sons, bowing to them. “Ah, there are my boys at last. Sir Fugail, you've met my eldest, but have you met my youngest son Robin yet?”
Sir Fugail bowed low to young Robin, a kindly smile adorning his face. The old knight had been a friend to Lord Locksley and even a mentor to Winstone, but he had never had a chance to properly introduce himself to the young one. “A pleasure to meet you, little one. Your father tells me you're quite the aspiring archer, so I thought I would come and see for myself.”
Robin felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment. “S-sir, I'm not that good. Still just a novice...”
Robin's eyes then darted down to a young girl about his age, clinging shyly to her father's robe and hiding behind his leg, wearing a short lavender gown. Her eyes met Robin's behind her childish hiding place, but she didn't leave it quite yet. It was fortunate that Robin's cheeks were already scarlet, because he was not sure he could have blushed any bright in that moment.
A new wave of pride unlike anything he had ever felt before filled him as he continued. “Er, that is, there's... there's always room for improvement. I want to keep learning, like Winstone.”
Winstone gently patted his brother's shoulder, slyly passing a wink between his father and Sir Fugail. His little brother may try to hide it, but none of his elders were fooled. The seed of a budding closeness had just been planted, and they knew to let it bloom.
“Then by all means, Robin. Why don't you show us? Ah, miss Marian? Would you care to try too?”
The shy vixen looked up at her father, and Sir Fugail simply gave her a kind smile and a nod. Plucking up her courage, she let out in a quiet yet still dainty and refined voice, “I... I would love to.”
Robin's cheeks flushed with colour beneath his fur as they stepped up together to the practice line, each handed their small bows by Winstone, before he retreated back with his father and honored guest to watch the show. Robin smiled at Marian as he notched the arrow nervously, his shaking hands making the shaft tremble.
“You see where this feather is slightly different in color? That the one that goes on the outsi--”
The heat in Robin's cheeks burned like a bonfire and spread up his ears until he felt his whole head is aglow. For he saw Marian already taking aim; she did not need any tutorial.
“Father taught me that,” she said with a gentle smile. “S-sorry. I didn't mean to throw off your...”
“No, it's great.” Robin smiled playfully, hoping that the young lass did not notice that his cheeks were almost cherry red. “It just means I can stop talking and making a bigger fool of myself than I already am,” he whispers to himself.
Robin winced as he realizes Marian caught this, lowering her bow. But he was met with a strange surprise; a gentle kiss upon his cheek. “I don't think you're making a fool of yourself.”
If there was any shade redder than the one Robin was already, he would certainly have turned it. If his ears were not already burning, he might have heard the suppressed chuckles from his father and brother.
Taking an exhale to steady himself, the young boy drew back on the string. His hands did not tremble now, as he drew back on his bowstring. Despite the feelings of nervousness, embarrassment, and other things the poor boy was much too young to comprehend, Robin felt a new feeling begin to wash over him, slowly melting them all away and pushing them to the corners of his mind; not gone, but not distractions either. A strange new focus filled his being as he fixed his eyes on the target. There was nothing but the target; the target and the young maiden beside him.
“You first?”, Marian asked as she readied her shot.
Robin shook his head with a smile, casting a glance at her for a moment and finding him meeting her eyes. “Together.”
The two counted off inwardly, not daring to breathe, not acknowledging the world around them. There was only their synchronicity; their gaze, their breath, their heartbeat; their fingers releasing the string, their arrows flying free with a hiss.
Sharpened flint met sackcloth and wood, just a mere hair's breadth from each other. Both of the children were stunned, and their respective elders even more so. Neither had ever shot a bullseye before in their life, and now, together, they had both made their shots perfectly together.
Marian slung the practice bow over her shoulder and clapped happily. “Bravo! Incredible shot!”
Young Robin flashed her the widest smile he ever thought he was capable of. He had come close a few times, but never got the bullseye before! “You made an incredible shot yourself, Miss Marian.”
This girl, this young girl, must truly have some special magic to her, something that guided his aim, kept it steady and true and filled his body with such warmth and light. He had always been hesitant to practice and risk making a fool of himself; he had always feared never being as good as a trained warrior like Winstone. But that fear was long gone. He had made a promise to himself in that very instant, a promise he told his father and brother not an hour later, and a promise he kept for years to come. He had promised in that instant to practice with his bow every day of his life for Marian, every day with his aim guided by his thoughts of her.
Deep down, though he was too young to truly understand, some whisper in his soul told him true; he knew that as long as he kept her in not just his thoughts, but in his heart, he would never miss for her.
That and other memories only served to break the duo's heart even further, as they just brought the two back to the painful present that seemed to indicate that no future memories between them would ever get made.
That is until, out of nowhere, Prince John was suddenly ordering the executioners to stop. He was fidgeting around in his chair and grasping his collar, but that seemed to be second on everyone's mind when he shouted at the guards to release Robin Hood.
"Untie the prisoner??" asked John's trusty Sheriff. His question was slow and drawn out, sounding especially confused.
Little did anyone know that their prince was not making these demands out of his own volition. Rather, Little John had managed to sneak up behind the prince's curtain amidst the chaos. He was able to grab a hold of the feline's collar and stick a sword into his back, all without anyone seeing him. He used this opportunity to threaten the ruler into letting Robin go.
"Okay, bigshot. Now tell 'em to untie my buddy or I'll …" he poked his sword into the prince's back harder to get his point across. Prince John, reluctantly but in fear for his life, did as the outlaw was told.
However, the Sheriff noticed something odd about the prince's demeanor. He seemed more nervous, stammering and fidgeting. Plus, the collar of his outfit was suddenly riding up against his neck, almost as if it was being pulled from behind …
… There's somethin' funny going on around here … he thought.
The back-and-forth continued as he started wandering away from it, with everyone too wrapped up in the moment to notice. And surely enough, when the Sheriff peered around the corner, his eyes widened at what he saw: a large bear holding his ruler at swordpoint. In spite of the disguise said bear was wearing, the Sheriff recognized the figure as Little John, Robin Hood's partner in crime.
"Why you!"
The wolf swung his sword at Little John, but the bear caught the weapon just out of the corner of his eye, and ducked not a moment too soon. Unfortunately, this meant that he was forced to let go of the prince when the assailant went for another strike. John took out his own weapon to fight the wolf, but the situation suddenly looked a lot less hopeful. Robin was still tied up, and completely at the mercy of the mad "king".
"There! There, it's that nasty bear, here to save his master! Stop him at ONCE!" the feline shouted. He got up off his throne and dashed away, perching himself on top of a guard's head out of fear.
"JOHN!!" Robin shouted. Out of instinct he charged forward to help his partner, only for the one guard still holding onto his collar to harshly tug on it, forcing him back and nearly knocking him off his feet.
More guards went to take down the bear, and the fox could do nothing but watch on with wide eyes. While Little John had size and skill to his advantage, there were simply too many attackers for him to face alone. He'd surely be outmatched! All the while, Maid Marian and Lady Kluck looked on with shock and worry on their faces. They silently rooted for the outnumbered outlaw, while shifting their gazes between him and the fox that Marian cared for so dearly.
I gotta get out of this! Robin thought. He shifted his rope-wrapped slender shoulders back and forth rapidly, trying to shake the bonds off and down his body. But they were tied far too tightly for such a thing, digging into his arms and sides. His bound wrists wrenched about as his back was arched forward, the fox grunting in exertion. But the force and momentum of his movements did little to help his efforts.
"Come on … come on, darn you …" he uttered in a subdued panic.
"Hush up, outlaw!" the guard shouted, pulling his collar with such force that Robin was knocked onto his side, unable to use his arms to cushion the landing.
Marian noticed Robin's escape attempts, hands clasped together in hopes that the tricky fox could slip his way free. But it seemed that he was having no such luck. Her emotions were adrenaline-fueled due to the series of events; it was all something out of a nightmare for her, save for Robin's heartfelt confession of love for her. In the heat of the moment, she had a burst of courage and dashed over to help him. But a guard suddenly stopped her with the tip of his axe, the sharp weapon ending up less than an inch from her face.
"Back away now, missy," he warned. "Don't want you held prisoner just for this rat." He pushed his axe, forcing Marian to back away. But she gave a huff of disapproval and balled her hands into fists, a nasty glare on her face.
"Why you … that rat is worth more than any of you! Let him go!"
The guard merely responded with a low growl. Robin Hood, meanwhile, had gotten back onto his feet, and looked his love in the eyes.
"Darling, don't you get caught up in this. I wouldn't forgive myself."
Another tear fell from the female's eye at this, Marian utterly helpless to do anything about this. Robin couldn't take it; he'd seen her sad more than enough for an entire lifetime. He fought in his bonds again, newly invigorated just by the drive to see her happy again. But it was clear that doing so was no use. He just wound up gasping and heaving at the effort.
The bound fox then looked up, and to his dread, he saw that his friend was losing the fight as expected, getting surrounded by the vicious rhinos. If he didn't flee right now, he'd be subdued and captured along with him ... and ultimately share his fate.
Robin couldn't let that happen. Even if it meant no one could save him.
"John! Go, get out of here!" he shouted.
"What?! No way, Rob! I ain't leavin' you here!" the bear shouted back, dodging blows and trying not to get distracted. But even he knew that he was on borrowed time, unable to keep up for much longer.
"You can't win, just save yourself! Go! NOW!! GO!!!" Robin's voice rose in fury to get his point across, an uncommon display for the normally-suave outlaw. He knew he was already doomed. There was no sense to John going down with him.
While initially refusing to even consider such a thing, Little John did think it over, albeit with much difficulty when under attack. He kept trying to fend his attackers off for a few more seconds. But then one of them managed to hook onto his sword and yank it out of his grip. The guards blocked his way to Robin, ready to finish this pesky quarrel.
And with a pit in his stomach, realized that there really was nothing he could do for his tied up buddy.
"It'll be alright, John! Trust me!" Robin reassured, though his tone certainly didn't convey the sentiment.
Little John truly hated himself for this decision. But he steeled himself, gave his captive friend one last look of sorrow and guilt, and turned the other way, running off.
"I'm coming back for ya, Rob! Don't you worry, I will!" he yelled. And with that, the bear wound up out of sight.
"NO!! Get him, you fools! Bring him back so he may face justice as well!" Prince John shouted at his goons.
The rhinos promptly did as they were told, taking off after Little John and leaving everyone else to come down from the hectic scene.
Prince John looked on in scorn as his guards ran off, clenching his fists growling lowly under his breath at how things almost got completely away from him. No one makes a fool of the rightful king, he thought. They will all pay for their disrespect!
As he continued steaming else's attention was immediately turned back to the tied up outlaw. Robin's fierce demeanor was gone, now replaced by a saddened look. He let out a sigh of defeat and hung his head low. He was tied up at the hands of a mad false ruler, his best friend was being hunted, and he was very likely about to be executed uninterrupted. He had already been fearful when the execution's initial attempt was underway, but having him be given a new spark of hope only for it to be dashed so cruelly sent a new jolt of despair in the fox.
The air was tense for a few more seconds, before the guard holding Robin's leash spoke up.
"Now then, my lord," he proclaimed. "Shall we resume the execution?"
"No!" Marian begged, clasping her paws and running up to the prince. "Please, my lord, he doesn't deserve such a fate! I beg you, be a just man this once!" It was taking all of her willpower to not shed another tear at the thought of losing the love of her life. She had to be strong, to no longer tremble in the face of adversity. Even if she was convinced that no amount of begging would fix anything.
To her surprise, however, Prince John didn't immediately shoot her down. Instead, he seemed to be in thought, scratching his chin in an overdramatic fashion. Marian, as well as every civilian watching, waited with baited breath for his response. They hoped that a miracle would be granted, hoping beyond hope that the cruel king would show just a bit of kindness towards their beloved hero. Even Hiss kept his glare on him, wondering what his ruler could be truly pondering.
Finally, John broke the silence. "You know what, my dear?" he started pleasantly. "You're right. This poor fellow doesn't deserve such immediate death."
Marian gasped in happiness, and the children watching perked up. Robin, however, raised a brow. It couldn't be that easy.
Surely enough, John continued. "He deserves worse! For the humiliation and attempted murder of the true king of Nottingham, he deserves the most shameful and memorable death imaginable!"
Robin couldn't prevent the angered glare afixed to his face at this, nor could anyone watching prevent the horrified looks after they too had their hopes shot down once again.
"GUARDS!! Bring Robin Hood to my chambers at once, where we shall decide how to be rid of this wretched scum once and for all!"
Everyone who didn't directly serve Prince John had their hearts broken at this. Some hung their heads low, others widened their eyes in shock, others tried to keep themselves composed. But the most saddening of all to see were the faces of the children, most of whom were shedding tears. It was no secret that they were among Robin Hood's biggest fans. Growing up in an oppressed, impoverished town, seeing their parents struggle to get by and try to put on a happy face for them, the youths of Nottingham looked up to Robin as a hero. He was a spark of light in the darkness, but appeared to be a spark about to be put out.
Skippy cried into his mother's clothing, which caught the bound fox's attention. "There, there now, little one," Robin tried his best to comfort the boy despite his own position. He wished he could pat the child's head, but the ropes of course prevented that. "Don't fret. Old Robin's not out of tricks yet."
He said this with his usual air of smooth confidence and reassuring wink. But in truth, he didn't know how he was going to get out of this. Tied up as he was and likely to be constantly guarded, there wasn't much he could do. But he wouldn't give up hope, especially with Little John still out there. And he refused to allow these kids to lose hope as well.
Skippy, through sniffles, responded, "Yes sir, Mr. Robin Hood."
But it was hard to feel optimistic as the guards started lead Robin away, forcing him to keep up or else be dragged on his knees. He gave one look back at the kids, the townsfolk, and his love over his shoulder. He tried to give a look that would reassure them, but judging by the tears welling up in Marian's eyes, it didn't seem like he succeeded.
Robin Hood (1973) belongs to Disney.
Originally uploaded on December 19, 2019.
This first part was written by myself and my good friend AchromaticStallion . Being much more well-versed in Robin Hood lore than me, Stallion was able to set up some rather interesting backstories to add to the 1973 film, which will come into play throughout the story as I write the rest of it. For this chapter, I wrote the "present" scenes while AchromaticStallion wrote the childhood flashback, quite well I'd say.
I think we all agree that as well-done as Robin Hood's tie-up scene was, no one would complain if it went on for longer … maybe even to the point of a completely different story resulting. So that's what this is: an alternate path to the 1973 movie in which Robin doesn't get rescued quite so easily. What will happen now? And how will elements of his past play into it? Stay tuned to find out!
Part 2 will be up soon, the first new piece of content I upload on this new FA account. But for now, I hope you enjoy this first one. And please check out AchromaticStallion's material as well!
Unfortunately, his disguise was seen through by the crooked and greedy Prince John and his snake assistant Sir Hiss. It was just a matter of waiting for the right moment to catch the criminal off his guard. It helped that Robin seemed particularly distracted by Maid Marian, who had been sitting nearby. After being exposed, Robin was assaulted by the prince's guards, far too many for even the crafty fox to escape from.
Now, Robin Hood stood tied up in many thick ropes winding around his torso and arms, while more held his wrists behind his back. A heavy collar had also been placed around his neck, attached to two long ropes that were each held by a guard. He'd been sentenced to immediate execution, much to the horror of all others watching and in spite of the pleas of Maid Marian.
"Please. Please, sire, I beg of you to spare his life! Please have mercy!" she begged, on her knees and emotional at the thought of losing the love of her life.
The prince took far too much amusement from this, however, and in a chuckle asked the vixen, "My dear, emotional lady, why should I?"
Marian showed no hesitation in her response. "Because I love him, Your Highness."
This was certainly not what Prince John expected to hear. Indeed, how could such a lovely, classy young lady be in love with this troublesome trickster? The thought was laughable! But surely enough, the captive fox quickly expressed the same love back for her.
In any other circumstance, Prince John would have been happy to see young love blooming in his presence. And he made these two aware of that. "Young love … your pleads have not fallen upon a heart of stone." However, that was not about to sway him from punishing this man. "But traitors to the crown must die!" he cried out dramatically.
"Traitor to the crown? That crown belongs to King Richard!" Robin bravely spoke out in defiance, fully aware that he could not defend himself from any repercussions while in these ropes. But he could at least go down with some dignity.
"Long live King Richard!"
Robin's call was matched by the townsfolk witnessing this whole ordeal. Despite being on the technical wrong side of the law, Robin Hood was the biggest source of hope for the town of Nottingham. John didn't deserve the crown simply for the abuse of power he demonstrated, let alone the shady way he achieved his power away from his much more fair and just brother.
But Prince John was having none of it, resorting to a childlike tantrum that further proved how he was unfit to rule. "Enough! I am king, king, KING! OFF WITH HIS HEAD!!"
On command, a red-and-black-clad rhino approached the bound fox with a large axe, ready to do the dastardly deed. All the while, the onlooking citizens and Maid Marian looked on with shock, horror, and sadness. They were about to lose someone many of them considered a friend, a hero, and in Marian's case, a true love. She collapsed into Lady Kluck's arms and sobbed, her history with the heroic renegade flashing before her eyes.
It seemed like only yesterday they were but children at play. The dancing lights of the courtyard at the manor Locksley could fill each evening with radiance and warmth, and by morning, its courtyard gardens were rich, comforting, and calm as the sea after a storm.
It was here many an imaginary battle was fought by the young fox Robin, brandishing whatever he could find as his mighty tool of battle. A fallen branch became his mighty sword, an unattended servant's broom became a mighty axe, and his rich green tunic became the armored garb of a great and mighty knight. Whenever he did not have his lessons with whatever tutor his father hired, he would often be seen in the courtyard playing his games and dueling his imaginary foes. His brother, Winstone, served as the main villain, fending off his brother's playful jabs and parries. Despite Winstone having the obvious advantage in size, strength, and years of combat training, he was more than happy to take a dive to make young Robin smile.
“You'll never take me alive, Robin of Locksley!”, he jeered in his best villainous drawl, like something out of a fairy tale reading. “The castle jewels will be mine!”
Robin retorted with a swift jab of his stick. “Not while there is still breath in my body! Have at thee, villainous rogue!”
Winstone let the stick pass in the space between his arm and chest, clutching it close and putting on a very dramatic death for his villainous character, falling back onto the ground and writing in mock pain.
“Ho, I am slain! Felled by the greatest warrior... in all the... land...” His eyes rolled up and his tongue lolled from his mouth as he lay back on the grass.
The young fox kit leaned in close to survey the victory of his game, and secretly to make sure he did not actually hurt his big brother, with no chance of sensing his brother's ambush.
A smile crossed Winstone's face as he suddenly sat upright and wrapped his little brother in a tight hold, somewhere between a hug and a wrestling move. “But what's this? A surprising twist!”
Robin laughed as Winstone reached down and tickled at his ribs, squirming uncontrollably. “Winstone, stop! Ahahaaa! That's cheating!”
“No, that's being smart, kiddo.”
Winstone finally let up, sitting upright and looking down at his winded brother with a smile. “Come on, we got to get you cleaned up. Father will be unhappy if you come to archery practice with your clothes all covered in dirt.”
After getting into a new forest green tunic, Robin and Winstone met with their father down at the small archery range outside of Fort Locksley. Lord Locksley was a tall, regal-looking fox with a powerful presence of warmth, and status practically rippling off of every fiber of his being, to say nothing of his luxurious red cloak. His greying whiskers were thick, like a moustache adorning his soft smile. By his side was another fox noble, seen once or twice but never truly known to Robin, clad in a rich purple robe, chatting with Robin's father politely. Lord Locksley finally looked over to his sons, bowing to them. “Ah, there are my boys at last. Sir Fugail, you've met my eldest, but have you met my youngest son Robin yet?”
Sir Fugail bowed low to young Robin, a kindly smile adorning his face. The old knight had been a friend to Lord Locksley and even a mentor to Winstone, but he had never had a chance to properly introduce himself to the young one. “A pleasure to meet you, little one. Your father tells me you're quite the aspiring archer, so I thought I would come and see for myself.”
Robin felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment. “S-sir, I'm not that good. Still just a novice...”
Robin's eyes then darted down to a young girl about his age, clinging shyly to her father's robe and hiding behind his leg, wearing a short lavender gown. Her eyes met Robin's behind her childish hiding place, but she didn't leave it quite yet. It was fortunate that Robin's cheeks were already scarlet, because he was not sure he could have blushed any bright in that moment.
A new wave of pride unlike anything he had ever felt before filled him as he continued. “Er, that is, there's... there's always room for improvement. I want to keep learning, like Winstone.”
Winstone gently patted his brother's shoulder, slyly passing a wink between his father and Sir Fugail. His little brother may try to hide it, but none of his elders were fooled. The seed of a budding closeness had just been planted, and they knew to let it bloom.
“Then by all means, Robin. Why don't you show us? Ah, miss Marian? Would you care to try too?”
The shy vixen looked up at her father, and Sir Fugail simply gave her a kind smile and a nod. Plucking up her courage, she let out in a quiet yet still dainty and refined voice, “I... I would love to.”
Robin's cheeks flushed with colour beneath his fur as they stepped up together to the practice line, each handed their small bows by Winstone, before he retreated back with his father and honored guest to watch the show. Robin smiled at Marian as he notched the arrow nervously, his shaking hands making the shaft tremble.
“You see where this feather is slightly different in color? That the one that goes on the outsi--”
The heat in Robin's cheeks burned like a bonfire and spread up his ears until he felt his whole head is aglow. For he saw Marian already taking aim; she did not need any tutorial.
“Father taught me that,” she said with a gentle smile. “S-sorry. I didn't mean to throw off your...”
“No, it's great.” Robin smiled playfully, hoping that the young lass did not notice that his cheeks were almost cherry red. “It just means I can stop talking and making a bigger fool of myself than I already am,” he whispers to himself.
Robin winced as he realizes Marian caught this, lowering her bow. But he was met with a strange surprise; a gentle kiss upon his cheek. “I don't think you're making a fool of yourself.”
If there was any shade redder than the one Robin was already, he would certainly have turned it. If his ears were not already burning, he might have heard the suppressed chuckles from his father and brother.
Taking an exhale to steady himself, the young boy drew back on the string. His hands did not tremble now, as he drew back on his bowstring. Despite the feelings of nervousness, embarrassment, and other things the poor boy was much too young to comprehend, Robin felt a new feeling begin to wash over him, slowly melting them all away and pushing them to the corners of his mind; not gone, but not distractions either. A strange new focus filled his being as he fixed his eyes on the target. There was nothing but the target; the target and the young maiden beside him.
“You first?”, Marian asked as she readied her shot.
Robin shook his head with a smile, casting a glance at her for a moment and finding him meeting her eyes. “Together.”
The two counted off inwardly, not daring to breathe, not acknowledging the world around them. There was only their synchronicity; their gaze, their breath, their heartbeat; their fingers releasing the string, their arrows flying free with a hiss.
Sharpened flint met sackcloth and wood, just a mere hair's breadth from each other. Both of the children were stunned, and their respective elders even more so. Neither had ever shot a bullseye before in their life, and now, together, they had both made their shots perfectly together.
Marian slung the practice bow over her shoulder and clapped happily. “Bravo! Incredible shot!”
Young Robin flashed her the widest smile he ever thought he was capable of. He had come close a few times, but never got the bullseye before! “You made an incredible shot yourself, Miss Marian.”
This girl, this young girl, must truly have some special magic to her, something that guided his aim, kept it steady and true and filled his body with such warmth and light. He had always been hesitant to practice and risk making a fool of himself; he had always feared never being as good as a trained warrior like Winstone. But that fear was long gone. He had made a promise to himself in that very instant, a promise he told his father and brother not an hour later, and a promise he kept for years to come. He had promised in that instant to practice with his bow every day of his life for Marian, every day with his aim guided by his thoughts of her.
Deep down, though he was too young to truly understand, some whisper in his soul told him true; he knew that as long as he kept her in not just his thoughts, but in his heart, he would never miss for her.
That and other memories only served to break the duo's heart even further, as they just brought the two back to the painful present that seemed to indicate that no future memories between them would ever get made.
That is until, out of nowhere, Prince John was suddenly ordering the executioners to stop. He was fidgeting around in his chair and grasping his collar, but that seemed to be second on everyone's mind when he shouted at the guards to release Robin Hood.
"Untie the prisoner??" asked John's trusty Sheriff. His question was slow and drawn out, sounding especially confused.
Little did anyone know that their prince was not making these demands out of his own volition. Rather, Little John had managed to sneak up behind the prince's curtain amidst the chaos. He was able to grab a hold of the feline's collar and stick a sword into his back, all without anyone seeing him. He used this opportunity to threaten the ruler into letting Robin go.
"Okay, bigshot. Now tell 'em to untie my buddy or I'll …" he poked his sword into the prince's back harder to get his point across. Prince John, reluctantly but in fear for his life, did as the outlaw was told.
However, the Sheriff noticed something odd about the prince's demeanor. He seemed more nervous, stammering and fidgeting. Plus, the collar of his outfit was suddenly riding up against his neck, almost as if it was being pulled from behind …
… There's somethin' funny going on around here … he thought.
The back-and-forth continued as he started wandering away from it, with everyone too wrapped up in the moment to notice. And surely enough, when the Sheriff peered around the corner, his eyes widened at what he saw: a large bear holding his ruler at swordpoint. In spite of the disguise said bear was wearing, the Sheriff recognized the figure as Little John, Robin Hood's partner in crime.
"Why you!"
The wolf swung his sword at Little John, but the bear caught the weapon just out of the corner of his eye, and ducked not a moment too soon. Unfortunately, this meant that he was forced to let go of the prince when the assailant went for another strike. John took out his own weapon to fight the wolf, but the situation suddenly looked a lot less hopeful. Robin was still tied up, and completely at the mercy of the mad "king".
"There! There, it's that nasty bear, here to save his master! Stop him at ONCE!" the feline shouted. He got up off his throne and dashed away, perching himself on top of a guard's head out of fear.
"JOHN!!" Robin shouted. Out of instinct he charged forward to help his partner, only for the one guard still holding onto his collar to harshly tug on it, forcing him back and nearly knocking him off his feet.
More guards went to take down the bear, and the fox could do nothing but watch on with wide eyes. While Little John had size and skill to his advantage, there were simply too many attackers for him to face alone. He'd surely be outmatched! All the while, Maid Marian and Lady Kluck looked on with shock and worry on their faces. They silently rooted for the outnumbered outlaw, while shifting their gazes between him and the fox that Marian cared for so dearly.
I gotta get out of this! Robin thought. He shifted his rope-wrapped slender shoulders back and forth rapidly, trying to shake the bonds off and down his body. But they were tied far too tightly for such a thing, digging into his arms and sides. His bound wrists wrenched about as his back was arched forward, the fox grunting in exertion. But the force and momentum of his movements did little to help his efforts.
"Come on … come on, darn you …" he uttered in a subdued panic.
"Hush up, outlaw!" the guard shouted, pulling his collar with such force that Robin was knocked onto his side, unable to use his arms to cushion the landing.
Marian noticed Robin's escape attempts, hands clasped together in hopes that the tricky fox could slip his way free. But it seemed that he was having no such luck. Her emotions were adrenaline-fueled due to the series of events; it was all something out of a nightmare for her, save for Robin's heartfelt confession of love for her. In the heat of the moment, she had a burst of courage and dashed over to help him. But a guard suddenly stopped her with the tip of his axe, the sharp weapon ending up less than an inch from her face.
"Back away now, missy," he warned. "Don't want you held prisoner just for this rat." He pushed his axe, forcing Marian to back away. But she gave a huff of disapproval and balled her hands into fists, a nasty glare on her face.
"Why you … that rat is worth more than any of you! Let him go!"
The guard merely responded with a low growl. Robin Hood, meanwhile, had gotten back onto his feet, and looked his love in the eyes.
"Darling, don't you get caught up in this. I wouldn't forgive myself."
Another tear fell from the female's eye at this, Marian utterly helpless to do anything about this. Robin couldn't take it; he'd seen her sad more than enough for an entire lifetime. He fought in his bonds again, newly invigorated just by the drive to see her happy again. But it was clear that doing so was no use. He just wound up gasping and heaving at the effort.
The bound fox then looked up, and to his dread, he saw that his friend was losing the fight as expected, getting surrounded by the vicious rhinos. If he didn't flee right now, he'd be subdued and captured along with him ... and ultimately share his fate.
Robin couldn't let that happen. Even if it meant no one could save him.
"John! Go, get out of here!" he shouted.
"What?! No way, Rob! I ain't leavin' you here!" the bear shouted back, dodging blows and trying not to get distracted. But even he knew that he was on borrowed time, unable to keep up for much longer.
"You can't win, just save yourself! Go! NOW!! GO!!!" Robin's voice rose in fury to get his point across, an uncommon display for the normally-suave outlaw. He knew he was already doomed. There was no sense to John going down with him.
While initially refusing to even consider such a thing, Little John did think it over, albeit with much difficulty when under attack. He kept trying to fend his attackers off for a few more seconds. But then one of them managed to hook onto his sword and yank it out of his grip. The guards blocked his way to Robin, ready to finish this pesky quarrel.
And with a pit in his stomach, realized that there really was nothing he could do for his tied up buddy.
"It'll be alright, John! Trust me!" Robin reassured, though his tone certainly didn't convey the sentiment.
Little John truly hated himself for this decision. But he steeled himself, gave his captive friend one last look of sorrow and guilt, and turned the other way, running off.
"I'm coming back for ya, Rob! Don't you worry, I will!" he yelled. And with that, the bear wound up out of sight.
"NO!! Get him, you fools! Bring him back so he may face justice as well!" Prince John shouted at his goons.
The rhinos promptly did as they were told, taking off after Little John and leaving everyone else to come down from the hectic scene.
Prince John looked on in scorn as his guards ran off, clenching his fists growling lowly under his breath at how things almost got completely away from him. No one makes a fool of the rightful king, he thought. They will all pay for their disrespect!
As he continued steaming else's attention was immediately turned back to the tied up outlaw. Robin's fierce demeanor was gone, now replaced by a saddened look. He let out a sigh of defeat and hung his head low. He was tied up at the hands of a mad false ruler, his best friend was being hunted, and he was very likely about to be executed uninterrupted. He had already been fearful when the execution's initial attempt was underway, but having him be given a new spark of hope only for it to be dashed so cruelly sent a new jolt of despair in the fox.
The air was tense for a few more seconds, before the guard holding Robin's leash spoke up.
"Now then, my lord," he proclaimed. "Shall we resume the execution?"
"No!" Marian begged, clasping her paws and running up to the prince. "Please, my lord, he doesn't deserve such a fate! I beg you, be a just man this once!" It was taking all of her willpower to not shed another tear at the thought of losing the love of her life. She had to be strong, to no longer tremble in the face of adversity. Even if she was convinced that no amount of begging would fix anything.
To her surprise, however, Prince John didn't immediately shoot her down. Instead, he seemed to be in thought, scratching his chin in an overdramatic fashion. Marian, as well as every civilian watching, waited with baited breath for his response. They hoped that a miracle would be granted, hoping beyond hope that the cruel king would show just a bit of kindness towards their beloved hero. Even Hiss kept his glare on him, wondering what his ruler could be truly pondering.
Finally, John broke the silence. "You know what, my dear?" he started pleasantly. "You're right. This poor fellow doesn't deserve such immediate death."
Marian gasped in happiness, and the children watching perked up. Robin, however, raised a brow. It couldn't be that easy.
Surely enough, John continued. "He deserves worse! For the humiliation and attempted murder of the true king of Nottingham, he deserves the most shameful and memorable death imaginable!"
Robin couldn't prevent the angered glare afixed to his face at this, nor could anyone watching prevent the horrified looks after they too had their hopes shot down once again.
"GUARDS!! Bring Robin Hood to my chambers at once, where we shall decide how to be rid of this wretched scum once and for all!"
Everyone who didn't directly serve Prince John had their hearts broken at this. Some hung their heads low, others widened their eyes in shock, others tried to keep themselves composed. But the most saddening of all to see were the faces of the children, most of whom were shedding tears. It was no secret that they were among Robin Hood's biggest fans. Growing up in an oppressed, impoverished town, seeing their parents struggle to get by and try to put on a happy face for them, the youths of Nottingham looked up to Robin as a hero. He was a spark of light in the darkness, but appeared to be a spark about to be put out.
Skippy cried into his mother's clothing, which caught the bound fox's attention. "There, there now, little one," Robin tried his best to comfort the boy despite his own position. He wished he could pat the child's head, but the ropes of course prevented that. "Don't fret. Old Robin's not out of tricks yet."
He said this with his usual air of smooth confidence and reassuring wink. But in truth, he didn't know how he was going to get out of this. Tied up as he was and likely to be constantly guarded, there wasn't much he could do. But he wouldn't give up hope, especially with Little John still out there. And he refused to allow these kids to lose hope as well.
Skippy, through sniffles, responded, "Yes sir, Mr. Robin Hood."
But it was hard to feel optimistic as the guards started lead Robin away, forcing him to keep up or else be dragged on his knees. He gave one look back at the kids, the townsfolk, and his love over his shoulder. He tried to give a look that would reassure them, but judging by the tears welling up in Marian's eyes, it didn't seem like he succeeded.
Robin Hood (1973) belongs to Disney.
Originally uploaded on December 19, 2019.
This first part was written by myself and my good friend AchromaticStallion . Being much more well-versed in Robin Hood lore than me, Stallion was able to set up some rather interesting backstories to add to the 1973 film, which will come into play throughout the story as I write the rest of it. For this chapter, I wrote the "present" scenes while AchromaticStallion wrote the childhood flashback, quite well I'd say.
I think we all agree that as well-done as Robin Hood's tie-up scene was, no one would complain if it went on for longer … maybe even to the point of a completely different story resulting. So that's what this is: an alternate path to the 1973 movie in which Robin doesn't get rescued quite so easily. What will happen now? And how will elements of his past play into it? Stay tuned to find out!
Part 2 will be up soon, the first new piece of content I upload on this new FA account. But for now, I hope you enjoy this first one. And please check out AchromaticStallion's material as well!
Category Story / Bondage
Species Fox (Other)
Size 855 x 1251px
File Size 845.3 kB
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