“It’s no trouble,” Will said, and started gathering cups with Elena to pass out. There was only a small cask by the campfire, but a larger one was still on their oxcart, down the hill and concealed just off the road. Arthur and David rushed off with Geoffrey and Thomas to fetch it, and would likely make it a little lighter during the haul. Robin tried to stop them, but they started a drinking song as they ran and his protests went unheard.

“Come on then,” Alan whined as they disappeared, “I can’t wait to hear how the hell you two got out of there. I’ll bet you left a trail of blood all the way!”

“We’d best hope not,” Robin warned.

Will patted Alan’s cheeks. “All in good time. We got the Sheriff. I assume you heard that?”

This changed the mood sharply, by John’s estimation. None seemed eager to answer, which usually meant they were waiting on him. “We did hear that,” he answered, letting his voice speak to his disapproval.

But Elena was just as eager as Will. “They know we keep our promises now.”

There was no shame to either of them, like dogs looking to be praised for a kill.

“That’s something we should have decided as a group,” John grumbled. He’d practiced this, in the event he ever saw them again. He knew the words to chastise them for being so impulsive, for neglecting the consequences of their actions. But he didn’t have the heart to bear it down upon them now.

“You’re right,” Will was even apologizing, “but there wasn’t time. We had the opportunity, and we took it. In the heat of the moment, we had to make a call.”

“The heat of the moment,” Robin’s words were crisp, he stared down into the cup he hadn’t even touched, “is the most important time to think clearly.”

Elena took offense. “You weren’t even here. You left. What are you complaining about?”

“Alright, alright,” soothed Alan, moving between them. “Let’s not get into that now. Tonight we celebrate! Hand me another drink!” His enthusiasm was joined by the boys, rallying him to empty his cup.

Robin’s hand found his shoulder. “Let’s take it easy, Alan.”

“Where’s the point in that?” he laughed. “I intend on sleeping all day tomorrow!” He made to upend his cup, but Robin stopped him again, more forcefully.

“We’re still going to Nottingham tomorrow. This changes nothing.”

That was ever an unsettling moment. John was as confused as the others. “What are you talking about?”

“Scarlet and Elena are alive, that’s great. But, no offense now, that’s not the most important thing. Scarlet just told us they’re planning on hanging two other people tomorrow for the murder of the Sheriff.”