"We're just talking, Robin. I'll try and come up with something else, but let me know if you reconsider the options at hand."\n\nLittle John watches you, patient.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

[[“As I said,” I do not move. “Redemption is a work in progress. Her life is my choice.”|ch2spirits_as_i_said_i_do]]\n[[“You’re right. I won’t replace one eternity of damnation with another.” I step aside.|ch2spirits_youre_right_i_wont_replace]]

Your men look around, shuffle their feet.\n\n"Ah," Much raises his hand. "<<print $much_nickname>>, that there's Little John."\n\n"We know, Much," Marian snaps. "We've been introduced."\n\n"Well and see, he's got a bit of a reputation in these parts, wanderin' in now and again to a tavern for a drink. Won't say we're on the best of terms, but no man who's shared a tankard with him an' then seen what he can do afterwards'll raise hands against him. An' we've all shared tankards, one time or another."\n\n"What you're saying," Marian speaks very slowly. "Is that you won't fight Little John because he's your drinking buddy?"\n\n"No, ma'am. Wouldn't be proper." Much chews on that for a moment. "That, an' we've seen him carry a full grown hog over his head with one hand."\n\nJohn smiles and raises his mug in your direction.\n\nMarian shakes her head. "Sorry, Robin. Looks like we're on our own here."\n\n<<set $ch2_john_attack1 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_fight_options>>

"Aye, ain’t that a question for the ages. I think if people knew, they wouldn’t be calling him the Black Knight."\n\n<<display spirit_john_choices>>

<<display ch2crypt_replace_horn>>

<<if not $forest_raid_information>>\n<<set $forest_raid_information = true>>\n@@color:green;You can launch periodic raids on tax collectors and other forest travelers from the Forest Border. Leaving on a raid takes time, and your home is almost certain to change in your absence. Minor events that take time, such as raids, are marked with a @@@@color:magenta;(!).@@@@color:green; Major events, which may take weeks or months to complete, are marked with a (!). While you're off adventuring, it's possible that your home will change and grow — or fall into disrepair.@@ \n<<endif>>

Your eyes travel over the rolling hills, track signs of isolated farmsteads. The year is still young, but there is bounty to be had if you know where to look. The new green crowns of Sherwood Forest rise not half a league off; the king’s forest, full of deer and other game.\n\n<<display food_searching>>

<<nobr>>\n<<set $chapter = "1 interlude">>\n<<if $wolf_alive and not $wolf>>\n<<set $wolf = true>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $much_present>>\n<<if $female>>\n<<set $much_nickname = "Miss Robin">>\n<<else>>\n<<set $much_nickname = "Master Robin">>\n<<endif>>\n<<display ch1interlude_much>>\n<<elseif $rosalind_present>>\n<<display ch1interlude_ros>>\n<<elseif $marian eq "magic">>\n<<set $wolf = true>>\n<<display ch1interlude_marian>>\n<<endif>>\n<<endnobr>>

"Well, I’m not leaving Elsa to this." Wolf races away. "Later, my good fellow."\n\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\n<<set $elsa_present = false>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1000>>\s\n<<set $men += 1>>\s\nYou’re ready when the guards round the corner, dragging another maid by the hair.\n\nThey fall, gurgling, with arrows in their throats.\n\nYou help the maid to her feet and step back into the study. Five maids now. Three more and you can get them a milking.\n\n<<display Fire_in_the_study>>\n\n<<if not $men_explanation>>\s\n<<display men_explanation>>\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

"There is nothing for you," the Sheriff laughs. "Nothing. You have lost!"\n\n<<display ch2sheriff_trapped_here>>

<<display ch2crypt_marian_gives_sword>>

"Not for the man who led the sack of my home," she narrows her eyes. "But we can deal with him another way, if you like."\n\n<<set $ch1_guy_curse = true>>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_start>>

<<set $marian_romance-->>\s\n<<if $royal>>\s\n"I suppose we should follow you blindly because of your blood? No, thank you. Besides, you'll get your chance, Robin."\n<<else>>\s\n"Do you have someone better in mind?" Marian waves you off. "No, don't answer that. You'll get your chance, Robin, if that's what you're after. Maybe someone else can do better, but that's not for me to decide. The men have final say on who will lead them to death or victory."\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

"Okay," the shepherdess call out. "I'm not going anywhere."\n\nMarian stops you. "What are you doing, Robin?" she whispers. "We have rope. We could get her out now."\n\n<<if $ch2_john_question2>>\s\n[[“Trust me. I have a plan...and it involves our friend, Little John.”|ch2shepherdess_trust_me_i_have_a]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Don't worry, we'll get her out later.”|ch2shepherdess_dont_worry_we'll_get_her]]\n[[“You're right. We can't leave her trapped here.”|ch2shepherdess_you're_right_we_cant_leave]]

<<if $men eq 0>>\s\n[[I forage for food among the nearby hills.|I_forage_for_food]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[I send my followers to forage for food among the nearby hills.|I_send_my_followers_to_forage]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $found_food>>\s\n[[I travel to a nearby farm to purchase or beg for food.|I_travel_to_a_nearby_farm]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $no_venison>>\s\n[[I brave Sherwood Forest. There will be venison tonight.|I_brave_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($men gt 0) and (not $start_poaching)>>\s\n[[I send my followers to poach in Sherwood Forest.|I_send_my_followers_to_poach]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I reconsider my options.|I_reconsider_my_options_prologue2]]

You scamper, scramble, and spin, trying to get your legs beneath you. You feel the ground disappear beneath your feet —\n\n<<display ch2defile_falling>>

Allison shrugs. "It doesn't matter. I'm sure they believe in you."\n\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\nMarian rubs her arms, looking cold in spite of the sun. "The girl's right, Robin. This place is full of spirits. They have little power in the broad light of day, but I would hate to stumble upon this place at night."\n\n"Oh, no." Allison chimes in. "You definitely want to stay away at night."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>

"Whatever you say, Robin." Marian studies the surrounding forest and picks a direction, seemingly at random but with quiet certainty. "Think about it, though. We can’t afford not to make use of any advantage at our disposal, and ultimately, it can’t hurt to ask."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

Allison nods. "Do no disrespect to those who once lived here, and you should be fine." She looks at the stone in her path. "Usually."\n\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\nMarian rubs her arms, looking cold in spite of the warm sun. "The girl's right, Robin. This place is full of spirits. They have little power in the broad light of day, but I would hate to stumble upon this place at night."\n\n"Oh, no." Allison chimes in. "You definitely want to stay away at night."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>\s

<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\n"Robin? Robin!" Marian's face swims into view. "Thank goodness you're awake. You were unconscious for about an hour, and the Sheriff's men will be here soon. We need to find a way across the river."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

"I feared Sherwood, Robin, but with you at our side the forest doesn't seem so grim. The noble holdings are spread out, but we can travel through the woods to avoid the Sheriff's men."\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_sleep>>

"Very well." Marian places the sword in the alcove. A sound, like distant trumpets, echoes through the chamber.\n\n<<set $elspeth_sword = "elspeth">>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

The land rolls away under a clean, open wood dotted with upland meadows. The river has cut a deep cleft across the edge of the hills and crashes through a boulder-strewn canyon, slowing and widening only as it nears Little John's bridge. There is no crossing here.\n\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2_search_ruins = true>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_start>>

<<set $elsa_saved = true>>\s\n<<set $elsa_present = true>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 300>>\s\n<<if $female>>\s\n<<set $man to true>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\nElsa, the unicorn, trots out of the woods.\n\n"Late, as usual, Elsa." Wolf bounds in the circle.\n\n"You try battling through an age-old blood curse in a //timely manner//," Elsa snipes.\n\n"But not too late," Wolf laughs.\n\n"Robin. Onto my back. We must stop this."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn_top>>

<<if $ch2_location eq "crossing">>\s\nDownriver, a narrow game trail threads its way through thickets and boulders before disappearing from view.\n\nUpriver, the land rises in a series of rolling hills dotted with the crumbling ruins of ancient watchtowers and settlements.\n\nBehind you is the long valley that brought you to this crossing. The Sheriff's men will have to follow you through a narrow defile or risk losing your trail.\n\n<<if not $ch2water_walk>>\s\n[[I take the game trail.|ch2travel_i_take_the_game_trail]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2water_walk>>\s\n[[I return to the waterfall.|ch2travel_i_return_to_the_waterfall]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I head towards the ruins.|ch2travel_i_head_towards_the_ruins]]\n<<if not $ch2_delay>>\s\n[[I backtrack along our trail. There are couple prime ambush points in the defile. Maybe I can delay the Sheriff's men.|ch2travel_i_backtrack_along_our_trail]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I'm not ready to leave yet.|ch2travel_im_not_ready_to_leave]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_location eq "waterfall">>\s\nYou consider your other options.\n\nThe game trail climbs back to Little John and the river crossing.\n\nA broad path, possibly used by livestock, looks like it bypasses the river crossing on its way to the hills and ruins upriver.\n\nYou can cut through the woods to reach the defile, a chokepoint against the Sheriff's men<<if $ch2_delay>>, though you have done all you can to delay the Sheriff<<endif>>.\n\n[[I return to the river crossing.|ch2travel_i_return_to_the_river]]\n[[I head towards the ruins.|ch2travel_i_head_towards_the_ruins_2]]\n<<if not $ch2_delay>>\s\n[[I cut through the woods. Maybe I can delay the Sheriff's men.|ch2travel_i_cut_through_the_woods_i]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I'm not ready to leave yet.|ch2travel_im_not_ready_to_leave_2]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_location eq "ruins">>\s\nYou consider your options.\n\nThere's a winding path that leads back to Little John and the river crossing.\n\nThe woods cut steeply into the valley and towards the defile<<if $ch2_delay>>, though you have done all you can there to delay the Sheriff<<endif>>.\n\nYou can swing down through the woods along a game trail to reach areas of the forest downriver from the crossing.\n\n[[I return to the river crossing.|ch2travel_i_return_to_the_river_2]]\n<<if not $ch2_delay>>\s\n[[I head towards the defile.|ch2travel_i_head_towards_the_defile]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I cut through the woods downriver.|ch2travel_i_cut_through_the_woods]]\n[[I'm not ready to leave yet.|ch2travel_im_not_ready_to_leave_3]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_location eq "defile">>\s\nYou consider your options.\n\nThere's a straight path that leads back to Little John and the river crossing.\n\nThe land climbs out of the defile towards the ruins upriver<<if $ch2_delay>>, though you have done all you can there to delay the Sheriff<<endif>>.\n\nYou can cut through the woods along a game trail to reach areas of the forest downriver from the crossing.\n\n[[I return to the river crossing.|ch2travel_i_return_to_the_river_3]]\n[[I head towards the ruins.|ch2travel_i_head_towards_the_ruins_3]]\n[[I cut through the woods downriver.|ch2travel_i_cut_through_the_woods]]\n<<if $ch2defile neq 2>>\s\n[[I'm not ready to leave yet.|ch2travel_im_not_ready_to_leave_4]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch1_magicq_whysherwood to true>>\s\n"The same reason as you, I guess. I needed to escape from the Sheriff and his men. These woods have kept me hidden and safe for days. If I weren't running out of food…" She pulls a spark from the fire and sends it dancing across her fingertips. "I read that there was magic here. Strong, old magic hidden deep within the forest. With it, I could crush the Sheriff, punish him for all the suffering he's caused." She extinguishes the spark in her hand.\n\n[[“You said it yourself, magic doesn't solve everything. We need allies.”|ch1_magicdinner_allies]]\n[[“You know more about this than I do. If we find this magic, we won't have to rely on anyone but ourselves.”|ch1_magicq_solo]]

"We don’t have time for this," Elspeth fumes. The sun vanishes a little more.\n\n<<set $curious++>>\s\n<<set $ch2spirits_you_sacked_camelot_why_you to true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

[[I don’t know what to say. I lengthen my stride catch up to Marian.|ch1interlude_excuse]]\n[[Wordless, I put my arm around Rosalind shoulder.|ch1interlude_preggers_silent]]\n[[“We’ll rescue Much, I promise.”|ch1interlude_preggers_rescue]]

[[“When I was as high as I could climb, I pretended I was an eagle, or a dragon, with no responsibilities or worries in the whole world.”|ch2dinner_when_i_was_as_high]]\n<<if $serf>>\s\n[[“There was a friar who lived on our master's lands. An enormous man who all but raised me as his own for many years. Tuck was his name. Friar Tuck. I climbed trees because he was too fat to follow me.”|ch2dinner_there_was_a_friar_who]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[“My family housed a wandering friar for a time, an enormous man who all but raised me as his own for several years. Tuck was his name. Friar Tuck. I climbed trees because he was too fat to follow me.”|ch2dinner_my_family_housed_a_wandering]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I deflect the conversation. “You're afraid of heights, Marian? I'm surprised we got you this high.”|ch2dinner_i_deflect_the_conversation_you're]]

You charge the hounds, loosing several arrows on the run before crashing into the nearest beast, sword in hand. The hound catches your sword in its teeth and rips it from your grip — nearly wrenches your shoulder from your socket in the process. You collide with the cliff face and your vision fills with stars.\n\n<<display arrows_and_marian_magic>>\n\nA horn sounds, and the hounds leap away into the forest, trailing blood. All three hounds are in full retreat, and a man in red sits astride a horse at the crest of the hill. \n\n"Locksley. Marian," he sneers. "Let the Sheriff deal with you. I will not risk my hounds for your corpses. But know this: we are not finished here. This slight is not forgotten!" He rides away.\n\nBoth wolf and unicorn are injured, but the unicorn has seen the worst of it; blood streaming down its flanks, it collapses to its knees. The wolf noses the unicorn, and looks to you.\n\n"If the Sheriff is near," Marian reminds you. "We don’t have much time."\n\n[[“I know, but if we do not tend their wounds, one or both of these creatures will die.”|ch1_morning_help_confirmed]]\n[[“You’re right. We have to go.” I look to Wolf. “I’m sorry.”|ch1_morning_help_changemind]]

You move, too late. <<print $possessed>> fights for control, and loses.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_possessed_kill>>

You bid farewell to Little John and his toll.\n\n<<display crossing_departure>>

You leave Guy naked and miserable in the middle of the forest, with only his hounds for company and warmth.\n\n"Guy will take this insult to heart," Marian counsels. "Like a dog with a bone, he'll hold this grudge until he can bury us in the ground...once he finds some pants." She stiffles a laugh.\n\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<if $guy neq 'cursed'>><<set $guy = "angry">><<endif>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\n<<set $gold += 1000>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 44>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "1 pm.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

<<if ($men eq 0) and ($gold gte 250)>>\s\n[[“I’ll pay for it.”|Food_from_farm][$gold -= 250]] (250 gold)\n<<elseif ($men eq 0) and ($gold lt 250)>>\s\n@@color:red;"I’ll pay for it." (250 gold)@@\n<<elseif ($men gt 0) and ($gold gte 1000)>>\s\n[[“I’ll pay for it.”|Food_from_farm][$gold -= 1000]] (1000 gold)\n<<elseif ($men gt 0) and ($gold lt 1000)>>\s\n@@color:red;"I’ll pay for it." (1000 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $start_horse>>\s\n[[“I’ll trade you my horse for food.”|I’ll_trade_you_my_horse_for_food]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($men eq 0) and ($renown gte 75)>>\s\n[[“Please. Be charitable. Last night, the Sheriff burned my home.”|Food_from_farm][$renown -= 75]] (75 renown)\n<<elseif ($men eq 0) and ($renown lt 75)>>\s\n@@color:red;“Please. Be charitable. Last night, the Sheriff burned my home." (75 renown)@@\n<<elseif ($men gt 0) and ($renown gte 250)>>\s\n[[“Please. Be charitable. Last night, the Sheriff burned my home.”|Food_from_farm][$renown -= 250]] (250 renown)\n<<elseif ($men gt 0) and ($renown lt 250)>>\s\n@@color:red;“Please. Be charitable. Last night, the Sheriff burned my home." (250 renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I cannot afford what you ask. Thank you for your time.”|I_cannot_afford_what_you_ask][$found_food to true]]\n\n<<display purchase_explanation>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\nYou slip through the shadows, through the dust and spiderwebs of unused back hallways, ever one step ahead of the Sheriff's plundering guardsmen. You duck into a storeroom by the kitchen as a pair of guards march past, dragging Cook and scullery maid around a corner.\n\n<<display kitchen_options>>\n\n<<display renown_explanation>>

His fingers trembling, Guy raises a whistle to his lips and blows. "There, it's done. Take my weapons if you like. I'm leaving!"\n\nYou back away from Guy's campsite and then turn into the forest, but the sound of the hounds doesn't abate. In fact, the hounds are getting closer.\n\n"Guy lied," Marian swears. "Come on, Robin. We need to run!"\n\n<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_hounds>>

"I know." Marian studies the surrounding forest and picks a direction, seemingly at random but with quiet certainty. "But it’s important not to forget about the people who help us get where we are. Rosalind, Much, my father. I keep a tally, for when our opportunity arises."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

The women and children you sent through the secret passage are gathered in the darkness. Reunited with their families, your men make ready to follow you.\n\n <<set $men +=15>><<display Fire_end>>

Little John nods. "I understand your hurry."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

It is funny, and more than a little ridiculous. "Trouble was," Much admits. "I was seven, and she was seventeen!" The day of marching passes that much faster.\n\n<<set $much_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

Little John shrugs. "Well, if you do find something interesting. I'll be here."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

"Yep. Hold on." He tightens up some straps and repositions the pack on your back. "There, that’ll do you better." You have to admit, the weight is easier to bear. \n\n<<set $much_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_much_intro>>

<<if $male>>\s\nRosalind dips into a brief, deep curtsy, and the dappled sunlight sparkles off her hair, transforming it into copper. You notice her freckles darken perceptibly. "I don’t want you to think me forward, but I admire the way in which you got us away from Guy of Gisborne."\n\n<<set $ros_romance += 2>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_$ros_romance>>\n<<else>>\s\nRosalind laughs a little and tucks a stray strand of her hair behind her ear, the red glowing like copper in the sun. "I was worried you’d be aloof or distant. It’ll be nice to have someone else to talk to. We lost so many when we ran from the Castle." She swallows, hard and loud. "That fool miller’s son…"\n\n<<display ch1interlude_ros_unwise>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if not $ch1_guyq_whyhunt>>\s\n[[“Why are you and your hounds hunting me?”|ch1_guyq_whyhunt]] \n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian eq "noble") and not $ch1_guyq_calloff>>\s\n[[“Call off your hounds.”|ch1_guyq_calloff]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if (($marian eq "noble") or ($marian eq "outlaw")) and not $ch1_guyq_supplies>>\s\n[[“Do you have any money, supplies?”|ch1_guyq_supplies]] \n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch1_guy_marianopinion>>\s\n[[“Marian, what shall we do with Guy?|ch1_guy_marianopinion]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“You have your life, leave the forest.”|ch1_guyq_leave]]

Rosalind frowns and searches your face for a time. "I’d like that," she says, finally. "It was good of Lord Woodbridge to take me on when my parents were conscripted into Richard’s crusade, but I have little patience for the life of a maid." She shakes her head. "We used to walk the forest in search of herbs and mushrooms to heal the sick. Look," she bends over and comes up with a patch of white mushrooms. "Spring bonnets. I haven’t seen these in years…"\n\nShe begins describing the plants you come across, only occasionally overcome with thought, as if weighing the course of a chosen future.<<set $ros_romance++>>\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

The sun is swallowed by darkness, and night sweeps over the knoll. Lightning sears the clouds, and the Black Knight is there upon his nightmare steed — flames snorting from its nostrils and smoke trailing in its steps. The knight himself is an empty shell of matte-black armor. No insignia hangs from the charred oak of his lance, no name is scrawled across the scabbard of his greatsword.\n\nThen the image doubles, and the horse is just a horse — his rider, the Sheriff of Nottingham.\n\n<<if $possessed eq "Robin">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_showdown>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $possessed neq "Robin">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_viewing>>\n<<endif>>\s

"You would condemn yourself over a question? I see, you would. Very well — I thought I had no choice. I did what I could to recapture Camelot’s former glory, and I was mistaken. The mercenaries in my army took their promised pay in Camelot’s blood. By that I was damned. Friendless, I buried my past and wandered until I met the Black Knight. My end was swift, but my spirit lingered, and now you are tied to my fate."\n\nShe stops, chastened. "I’m sorry. Again, I put necessity in the way of honor. Yet to linger forever here, in guilt. You cannot imagine the torment…"\n\n[[“Get over yourself, Elspeth. I have no intention of dying here.”|ch2spirits_get_over_yourself_elspeth_i]]\n[[“Villainy has come once more to England. We have need of heroes.”|ch2spirits_villainy_has_come_once_more]]\n[[“Your men broke the covenant and sacked Camelot. You’re not responsible.”|ch2spirits_your_men_broke_the_covenant]]

<<if not $ch2_marian_talking and not $ch2_john_diplomacy>>\s\n<<if not $ch2crossing_mn_food>>\s\n[[“We have food, and a little wine. We could try inviting him to discuss our passage over food.”|ch2crossing_mn_food]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2crossing_mn_fungus>>\s\n[[“There's a fungus that grows in these woods. Crushed into food or drink, it's commonly used as a soporific.”|ch2crossing_mn_fungus]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if (not $ch2_john_diplomacy) and (not $ch2crossing_mn_talk)>>\s\n[[“You've grace and experience in courtly ways, Marian. Could you help me convince Little John of our need to cross?”|ch2crossing_mn_talk]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Alright, enough planning.”|ch2crossing_m_done]]\n[[“I'm not sure I like any of those ideas.”|ch2crossing_m_dislike]]

[[“Stop the Sheriff's men. Show the people that someone out here cares. The people will follow.”|ch1_magicdinner_allies_stopmen]]\n[[“There are mercenaries out there, warriors displaced by the Crusades. With them, we can have an army in no time.”|ch1_magicdinner_allies_money]]\n[[“Rob from the rich, give to the poor. The people will love us when we return what's been taken from them.”|ch1_magicdinner_allies_money]]\n<<if not $ch1_magicdinner_didnoble>>\s\n[[“Meet with the nobles. They don't like the Sheriff any more than we do, and they can quickly raise an army if they've something to rally around.”|ch1_magicdinner_allies_nobles]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“This forest is full of magic. Could there be creatures in Sherwood that would help us? Unicorns, ogres, trolls, and the like?”|ch1_magicdinner_allies_creatures]]

"I see." Elspeth chokes back something in her ghostly throat. "Well, shall we?"\n\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

<<set $sherwood_lodging to true>>\s\n"And neither will we," someone shouts. "The forest is haunted."\n\nA chorus of voices rises from your followers, and you quickly realize that they will not follow you into Sherwood.\n\n<<display lodging_options_for_followers>>

The water hammers your back, and you feel refreshed.\n\n"Been a while since you took a proper bath?" Marian laughs. "Come on, Robin. Let's get a move on."\n\n<<set $ch2_bath = true>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

"It’s better than nothing. I appreciate your brevity, though it appears you have a vested interest in my being in good…spirits."\n\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

You leave Guy naked and miserable in the middle of the forest, his jewerly weighing down your pockets.\n\n"Guy will take this insult to heart," Marian counsels. "Like a dog with a bone, he'll hold this grudge until he can bury us in the ground...once he finds some pants." She stiffles a laugh.\n\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\n<<set $gold += 1000>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 68>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "10 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

"The Greek gods were more like people with a lot of power. Not so different from a king who takes his country to war across the ocean, or a sheriff who takes two-thirds of every harvest in tax." <<display ch1marian_welcome>>

<<display ch2travel_ruins>>

<<set $john_present = true>>\s\n<<display crossing_departure>>

<<if not $ch2spirits_who_are_you_2>>\s\n[[“Who are you?”|ch2spirits_who_are_you_2]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2spirits_whats_going_to_happen_2>>\s\n[[“What’s going to happen?”|ch2spirits_whats_going_to_happen_2]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Can I help?”|ch2spirits_can_i_help]]\n[[I run from the knoll. This is a clash of forces beyond me.|ch2spirits_i_run_from_the_knoll_is]]

"Really?" Rosalind fairly skips at your side. "People are always talking about what they do for Marian, and… Well, no one’s ever called me pretty before." That last is said in a whisper, so soft you barely catch its meaning.\n<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\n\n[[“I mean it, Rosalind. You’re every bit as beautiful as Marian, if not more so.”|ch1interlude_ros_prettier]]\n[[I pretend not to have heard Rosalind's comment.|ch1interlude_pretend]]\n[[“Excuse me.” I lengthen my stride catch up to Marian.|ch1interlude_excuse]]

<<set $ch2_john_diplomacy = true>>\s\nLittle John puffs out his chest. "Must I? For less than 5,000 gold and against the wishes of the king himself?"\n\n<<display ch2johnquestions_convince_me>>

"That is one of the problems." Elspeth chuckles. <<set $ch2spirits_were_supposed_to_joust_the to true>><<if $ch2complete_alcoves>><<display banner_lance>><<elseif ($elspeth_sword eq "robin") and not $ch2complete_alcoves>><<display only_sword>><<else>>\n\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>\n<<endif>>\s

and spin away, aim for his legs. Little John jumps over your staff, but loses his balance and falls from the bridge.\n\nAs you peer over the edge to wave good riddance, Little John's staff catches you behind your knees and you tumble into the water. The river carries you away once more, and you spot Little John hanging from a rope he'd left hidden beneath the bridge.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_swim>>

"A knight of the Round Table. She thought to recapture Camelot’s former glory after Arthur's fall, but the mercenaries in her army took their promised pay in Camelot’s blood. I left her then, and she built this lonely tower in penance...until the Black Knight came for her. She slew him, and — as best I heard tell — threw herself from the tower afterwards in despair."\n\nElsa is quiet. "She was my friend. And I abandoned her in her time of need."\n\n<<set $man = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2spirits_who_was_elspeth_ to true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn_top>>

Marian walks into the night. "Good night, Robin."\n\nYou take command of several Merry "Men".\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_end>>

Marian frowns. "I don't think that's your choice to make, Robin. Come, spirit."\n\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\n<<set $possessed = "Marian">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_transfer>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $gold -= 500>>\s\n"It’s raining gold!" The bandits drop their weapons and begin scrapping across the ground after the coins.\n\nYou slip in, grab sword, dagger, and bow, and lead the merchant away all unnoticed. \n\n<<display thanks_of_devon>>

<<if not $ch2_defile_stop>>\s\n[[“We stop them here.”|ch2defile_we_stop_them_here]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $much_present and not $ch2_defile_stop1 and $men gte 5>>\s\n[[“Leave a detachment of men here. They'll harry the Sheriff's men from the top of the defile as they ride through.”|ch2defile_leave_a_detachment_of_men]] (5 men)\n<<elseif $much_present and not $ch2_defile_stop1 and $men lt 5>>\s\n@@color:red;“Leave a detachment of men here. They'll harry the Sheriff's men from the top of the defile as they ride through.” (5 men)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian eq "magic") and (not $ch2_defile_stop2) and not $ch2magic_consider>>\s\n[[“Is there any magic that can hold the huntsmen?”|ch2defile_is_there_any_magic_that]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2magic_consider and $gold gte 500 and (not $ch2_defile_stop2)>>\s\n[[“Place the magical wards. We need more time here.”|ch2defile_magical_traps]] (500 gold)\n<<elseif $ch2magic_consider and (not $ch2_defile_stop2) and $gold lt 500>>\s\n@@color:red;“Place the magical wards. We need more time here.” (500 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_defile_stop3 and $renown gte 100>>\s\n[[“I have some experience trapping in the woods. We can set some snares across the trail.”|ch2defile_lets_set_some_snares_across]] (100 renown)\n<<elseif not $ch2_defile_stop3 and $renown lt 100>>\s\n@@color:red;“I have some experience trapping in the woods. We can set some snares across the trail.” (100 renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_defile_stop4 and ($ch2cave_walk eq "success")>>\s\n[[“There are some fallen trees up on those cliffs. If we roll them into the defile, it'll block the passage.”|ch2defile_there_are_some_fallen_trees]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Let's get out of here.”|ch2travel]]

"Robin?" Marian is at your side. "There was a wailing, the smell of brimstone." She runs her hand across the grass. It is brittle, and turns to ash. "Farewell knight, wherever you may be…"\n\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn_grief>>\n<<display ch2spirits_caught>>

<<set $start_diplomacy++>>\s\n"We can assist them," the seneschal pauses. "But to do so shall use much of Robert's goodwill with the Sheriff. If we are to be of service, you must ride hard from this place immediately. We can offer you no succor."\n\n[[“I shall inform my people to expect your men shortly.”|I_shall_inform_my_people]]\n[[“I don't want to inconvenience the Earl. I'll find other means to care for my people.”|Robert_furnished]]

"If you will, Little John." Marian passes him a flask of mead. "These matters are best discussed over a decent meal."\n\nLittle John smacks his lips as you settle down to the best of your remaining supplies.\n\n<<set $john_argument -= 100>>\s\n<<set $ch2johnquestions_i_signal_marian_its_time to true>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_argument_continues>>

You pick your way down the game trail and back to the waterfall. <<display ch2travel_waterfall>>

<<set $black_knight_vow = false>>\n<<set $chapter to "2 spirits">>\n<<set $inventory = false>>\n<<if $casual_difficulty>>\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 200>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $hard_difficulty>>\n<<set $spirit_strength += 200>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $imp_difficulty>>\n<<set $spirit_strength += 400>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $ch2cross>>\n<<set $john_present = true>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $ch2_sheriff_pursuit>>\n<<set $ch2rescue = true>>\n<<endif>>\n<<set $possessed = "">>\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>\n<<set $possessed = "Allison">>\n<<endif>>\n<<set $marian_action = "">>\n<<set $curious = 0>>\n<<set $elsa_saved = false>>\n<<set $elsa_talk = 0>>\n<<set $john_talk = 0>>\n<<set $man = false>>\n<<if $ch2complete_alcoves>>\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 300>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if not $ch2bow>>\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if not $ch2horn>>\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $elspeth_sword neq "elspeth">>\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $elsa_present>>\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 100>>\n<<endif>>\n<<display ch2spirits_start>>

[[“You’re telling me this now?”|ch2spirits_youre_telling_me_this_now]]\n[[“Who was the Black Knight?”|ch2spirits_who_was_the_black_knight]]\n[[“Don't waste your breath. That spirit is out for vengeance. Let's go!”|ch2spirits_possessed_is_helping_the_spirit]]

The Sheriff levels his lance at your heart. You have no shield, your weapon is half the length. You have no chance—\n\nThe wind catches your banner and forces your lance slightly out of line. Tip to broken tip your lance collides with the Sheriff’s, and they explode! Shards of wood rain down around you and the Sheriff is thrown from his horse by the impact.\n\nYou leap to his side. Your nemesis, the Black Knight, lies stunned. You raise your sword.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_kill>>

<<display ch2spirits_return_to_john>>

<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<if not $ch2crypt_visit>>\s\nThe stairs lead to a short hallway. Shafts of sunlight cut through holes in the ceiling, capture the slow dance of dust in the empty air. The hallway leads to an open chamber that has suffered little over the years.\n\nA long stone coffin sits on a raised dais in the center of the room. The top of the coffin is carved with the image of an armored figure at rest.\n\n"There's an inscription on the lintel." Marian points. "This is the tomb of Dame Elspeth, a knight of Arthur's Round Table."\n\n<<if $much_present>>\s\n"I reckon I heard some tales o' Dame Elspeth." Much says. "She was daughter o' Sir Kay, King Arthur's foster brother. She survived Arthur's battle with Mordred, but weren't nothin' said 'bout her after Arthur's death." He shrugs. "What? I like them stories 'bout Arthur."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $ch2crypt_visit = true>>\s\n<<else>>\s\nYou return to the tomb of Dame Elspeth.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

You move through the halls, surprising small groups of guards with your fierce resistance.<<if $start_stable>> But you are only four and, with the exception of yourself, untrained.<<endif>> An alarm sounds, throughout the house, the guards cease their looting and begin an organized search.\n\n<<if $start_stable>>\s\nA fierce fight on the back stairwell leaves Jack, one of stable hands, wounded in the stomach.\n\n"Robin," he gasps. "We can’t go on like this. We can’t kill them all ourselves."\n<<else>>\s\nYou find one of the stablehands, Jack, wounded by the back stairwell. Two other stablehands watch the hall.\n\n"Robin," he gasps. "We tried to take back our home, but there are too many. We can’t kill them all ourselves."\n<<endif>>\s\n\n[[“We can. And we will. I will not let these villains defile our home.”|We_can_And_we_will]]\n[[“Jack? Stay with me. Let’s get you back to the kitchen, get out of here.”|Jack_Stay_with_me]]\n[[“Get Jack out of here. I’ll finish this alone.”|Get_Jack_out_of_here]]

"No." Marian purses her lips. "Robin, are you okay? We need to get across the river. We don't have time for tea."\n\n<<display ch2waterfall>>\s

<<nobr>>\nThe relief carved into the coffin shows an armored woman at rest. Her hair falls over her shoulders in twin braids,\n<<if $ch2bow>>\na bow is slung across her back,\n<<endif>>\n<<if $ch2horn>>\nan ornate drinking horn is hooked to her belt,\n<<endif>>\n<<if $elspeth_sword eq "elspeth">>\nan elegant sword is gripped between her folded hands,\n<<endif>>\nand her breastplate is decorated with a griffon rampant.\n<<endnobr>>\n\n<<display ch2crypt_coffin1>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $I_leap_from_the_window_clever to true>>\s\n<<set $renown += 25>>\s\n<<display I_leap_from_the_window>>

Marian doesn't speak for a long time. "You seem so certain, and yet there have been other revolts. People have died, good people. If it comes to that, I won't stop you. But can we at least consider other plans first?"\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_campfireplan>>

You make it back around the waterfall without trouble. The pool is quiet, and several trails lead away through the forest. Across the river the Deepwood, and safety, taunts you with its inaccessibility.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 250>>\s\nThe hound lopes from the darkness, massive as your horse, its eyes dark with malice. A Baskerville hound, the Sheriff’s own breed.\n\nHoliday’s eyes roll, and he nearly throws you from his back. The hounds lunges, jaws snapping, and you kick out. Luck, if nothing else, is with you tonight. Your foot hits the hound’s sensitive nose, hard. It yelps, shies, and runs away into the night.\n\nThe sky is smoke black at your back, shot red with devouring flames that fall upon only home you’ve ever known.\n\n[[The night passes...|the_night_passes]]

You sprint through the halls, searching for other survivors. The Sheriff’s men are preoccupied with looting your home and you move past their positions without a fight.\n\nThe door to the study is locked, and you hear women weeping on the other side.\n\n[[I pick the lock.|I_pick_the_lock]]\n[[There’s no time for finesse. I kick the door down.|There’s_no_time_for_finesse]]\n[[Guards are on their way. Maybe I can make it back here later.|Guards_are_on_their_way]]

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $gold -= 1000>>\s\n<<set $start_men = $men*2>>\s\n<<set $family_free = true>>\s\n<<set $men to 0>>\s\nThe people are astonished and grateful. <<display leaving>>

<<display ch2shepherdess_allison2>>

Marian stares into the dwindling campfire. "You escaped the Sheriff's hounds, which is more than anyone here has managed. Any ideas?"\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinner_noquestions_choices>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\nThe hart bounds sideways at the last moment, and your arrow skips off the ground in front of the wolf, who skids to a stop. <<if not $start_woman>>"Not terribly sporting, was it?"<<else>>"Fancy yourself England's own Diana?"<<endif>> You imagine the wolf's sarcastic voice. "That was going to be my kill, and look, it's gone."\n\nHe's right, the hart vanished through the underbrush. The wolf darts back into the trees.\n\n<<if $I_take_refuge_in_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest>>\s\n<<display start_day_3>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display top_level_choices>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $start_faith++>>\s\n<<set $silver_cross to true>>\s\nFather Timothy removes a silver cross from his neck and drapes it over your head. "It is said this cross belonged to Sir Gawain himself, and was worn on his quest for the Holy Grail. As it warded him on his journeys, so may it protect you. Remember us, when you are far away."\n\n<<display There’s_a_heavy_thumping>>

<<display ch2sheriff_nocross>>

"So it boils down to money. With money, we become famous or powerful." She's silent for a time.\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinner_sleep>>

Three gleaming treasures sit in their alcoves. You feel a sense of peace and well-being.\n\n<<display ch2crypt_alcove1>>

<<if $ch2marian_light and not $ch2torch>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_entrance>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display can_I_get_a_light>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if $ch2crossing_barter_again>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_john_barter>>\n<<else>>\s\nLittle John appraises you. "Back with something of value? I'm listening."\n\nMarian watches the river flow by. "Anything valuable enough to trade for passage would almost certainly help us later against the Sheriff. Still, we can't use anything if we're caught."\n\n<<set $ch2crossing_barter_again = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_john_barter>>\n<<endif>>\s

A warm wind picks up, and Elspeth raises her arms. Twin streaks of light cross your vision and the spirit is gone, the clouds have dispersed, and the moon shines strong upon the knoll.\n\nThe Black Knight bows low. "There shall be no more violence this night. Go, the crossing is clear. I shall hold this villain here." He pauses, lowers his visor, and the ash and soot wash from his armor, leaving bright steel. "Perhaps better than she deserved, but we shall have eternity to find reconciliation. Thank you."\n\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_end>>

<<if $horse_to_allison>>\s\n"I was so stupid... Holiday threw me while we were riding near the ruins. He was spooked, when the earth shifted and that stone fell across my path." She shakes her head. "He got out. He's really smart, you know...but I've been stuck here."\n<<else>>\s\n"I was chasing one of the kid goats in here when the earth shifted and that stone fell across my path. The kid leapt out, but I'm afraid I can't jump that high."\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<set $questions++>>\s\n<<set $ch2_allison_question2 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $start_stable = true>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\n<<set $men += 3>>\s\nYou turn away from the locked door and continue down the hall. Three turns and you round the corner behind a pair of guards locked in combat with Bill and Jack, two of the stable hands. \n\nYou take the guards by surprise, and they fall without a sound.\n\nA dozen children cluster behind Bill. "We need to get these kids out of here, Robin," Bill says. "I’ve already sent Henry," the other stable hand, "back to the kitchen. He was wounded earlier, but nothing too serious."\n\nThere’s a scream from somewhere else in the house and the distant sound of breaking glass. You smell smoke.\n\n[[“You’re right. We’d better get out of here while we still can.”|You’re_right_We’d_better_get_out]]\n[[“There are some women trapped in the study upstairs. I need to try and get them out.”|There_are_some_women]]\n[[“I’ll take the children. See if you can save the women trapped upstairs in the study.”|Come_with_me_We’re_leaving_children]]\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

You feel a blade at your neck. "Locksley," the Sheriff snarls in your ear. "So good of you to wait around."\n\nThe Sheriff's men surround you, drawn as if by magic from the gloom.\n\n[[Escape is no longer an option.|ch2captured]]

@@color:green;You'll need as much gold as possible to cast the magic ritual. The number of Magical Discoveries you've made will render your ritual more powerful.@@

"Not until you pay the toll." Little John blocks your path across the river. "5,000 gold."\n\n"That's highway robbery," Marian exclaims. <<if $gold lt 5000>>"We don't have that kind of money."<<endif>>\n\n<<display ch2start_continue>>

You and Marian sprint through the woods, the baying of hounds rising by the minute.\n\n"Elsa, the unicorn, and I much appreciate how you got those hounds off our trail," Wolf jogs up beside you, his growls and yips sounding very much like speech. "I’d like to return the favor." Wolf leads you in a different direction. "I live here, after all." You imagine the hot breath of the hounds on your neck. "Now, do you trust me?" \n\n[[“Of course!”|ch1_guy_hounds_trust]]\n[[“We’ve only just met.”|ch1_guy_hounds_distrust]]

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $start_horse to true>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 2000>>\s\nThe horse sighs heavily, but doesn’t otherwise protest as you leap onto its back.\n\n"Hey, what’s going on? Get off Holiday!" The guard turns, surprised, and gets tangled up in his unbuttoned trousers. He falls, hits his head on a gravestone, and lies moaning in the soft loam of the churchyard.\n\nYou urge your new horse Holiday to a cantor, then gallop. \n\n<<display away_on_horse>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<display ch2crypt_look_complete_treasures>>

You think you spot a track. Then you blink, and it's gone. Or maybe it was just the wind blowing across the grass.\n\n<<set $ch2_tracks1 = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_lost>>

[[“Good luck, Marian. I’ll do my best to see you through this.”|ch2spirits_good_luck_marian_ill_do]]\n<<if $rosalind_present>>\s\n[[“Good luck, Ros.” I take her hands and look her in the eye. “You can do this.”|ch2spirits_good_luck_ros_i_take]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“No, it's too dangerous.”|ch2spirits_no_it's_too_dangerous]]

<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<set $start_men = $men>>\s\n<<set $men to 0>>\s\nYou crest a hill, and Lord Woodbridge's proud fortress comes into view, banners snapping in the wind.\n\nYour people begin running, overjoyed at the prospect of refuge. Then Anna steps into a rabbit hole and twists her ankle; you stay behind to help her.\n\nRiders sally from the gates and surround your people, revealing themselves to be men of Nottingham and in the Sheriff’s employ. They don’t notice you and Anna on the hill, and you slink away unseen.\n\n"Robin," Anna looks at you. "I have family in Nottingham. They will shelter me, and I will work to free our people, who have done nothing wrong. It is you the Sheriff wants, and you he will pursue. Fly fast, and far." She gives you a long, lingering hug. "I will miss you."\n\n<<display Anna_leaving_options>>

You step through the wood, carefully tracking a strap of cloth here, a button there, and run straight into a young woman. Your heads collide.\n\n<<set $marian = "noble">>\s\n<<display ch1marian>>

<<set $ch1_guyq_whyhunt = true>>\s\n"My dear cousin's orders." Guy grimaces. "Though heaven knows why. You’re nothing, a nobody." His eyes flick to Marian. "Or at least, you were. I warned him about needlessly antagonizing the populace. Now you have friends, and we, enemies."\n\n<<set $ch1_guy_question++>>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_parley>>

<<if $wolf>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_john>>\n<<endif>>\s

"You think to break the curse?" Elspeth laughs, a little sad. "I wish you the best of luck. But one way or another, this night will be my last."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_redemption>>

<<set $chapter = "prologue">>\s\n<<set $inventory = true>>\s\nEngland, 1187. A quiet Spring evening...\n\n"Bring me the Locksley brat!" The Sheriff’s bellow echoes through the walls of your home. "The one named Robin! The rest are yours." \n\nHobnailed boots shake the walls on all sides as soldiers fill the house. You need to get out of here; you don’t have much time.\n\n[[I sneak out the back entrance, through the kitchen.|I_sneak_out_the_back_entrance]]\n[[I leap from the window and race for the stables.|I_leap_from_the_window_bold]]\n[[The guards don’t know me. I throw a cloak around my shoulders and blend in with the household staff.|The_guards_dont_know_me]]

Slowly, in groups of twos and threes, your followers set out across the hills.\n\nAnna waits. "Farewell, Robin. Fly fast, and far from the Sheriff's wrath. I hope we see you again. "\n\n<<display Anna_leaving_safe_options>>

<<display ch2crypt_coffin_locked>>

<<if $ch2bearfriend>>\s\nBedivere yawns and follows you to the entrance of the cave.\n\nYou walk back to the base of the waterfall, and Bedivere turns towards the pool in search of a snack.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall>>\n<<elseif ($ch2_john_treasure eq "taken") and not $ch2bearfriend>>\s\nBedivere notices you with a growl. <<display ch2cave_notstealth>>\n<<else>>\s\nBedivere grunts and watches you leave.\n\nYou make it back to the base of the waterfall.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "trapped">>\s\n<<set $questions = 0>>\s\n"I'm so glad someone found me." The shepherdess scrambles to her feet. "Here, I thought I'd be stuck alone with the goats and ghosts — neither of whom have been much help. My name is Allison, by the way."\n\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>

"I doubt it." Marian tosses another log on the fire. "The Sherrif will be a faithful lackey until he has me in his arms. Which I have determined shall never happen." She fingers a small dagger at her belt.\n<<if not $female>>\s\n[[“Peace, Marian. So long as I live, you will not be married against your will.”|ch1_nobleq_marry_john_reassure]]\n[[I remain sielnt, and let the despair pass.|ch1_nobleq_marry_john_silent]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[“Peace, Marian. So long as I live, you will not be married against your will.”|ch1_nobleq_marry_john_reassure]]\n[[“I'd do the same, if I were to be forced into marriage against my will.”|ch1_nobleq_marry_john_same]]\n[[I remain silent, and let the despair pass.|ch1_nobleq_marry_john_silent]]\n<<endif>>\s

"I surprised myself." Marian looks pleased. "But just because I'm afraid of something, doesn't mean I can't beat it."\n\n<<if $john_present>>\s\n"Today, a tree," Little John laughs. "Tomorrow, the Sheriff. You're a fierce one, Lady Marian. I pray I never find myself on your bad side."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2dinner_dinner>>

<<if not $purchase_explanation>>\n<<set $purchase_explanation to true>>\n@@color:green;This is an opportunity to spend your resources — gold, renown, men — to access special options in the game. Gold and renown are used, while your men will return slowly from their assignments over time. The cost of the option is detailed in parentheses after the text, and will be deducted from your total after you make your choice. If you do not have the resources required to choose a particular course of action, that choice will be @@@@color:red;red@@@@color:green; and inactive.@@\n<<endif>>

You catch the pike around its tail as it lunges for Marian. The fish — it must be as large as you — thrashes and snaps, but you refuse to let go until Marian returns to the surface, the sword in her talons.\n\nReleased, the fish swims away under a cluster of rocks, and you calmly return to the surface.\n\n<<set $marian_romance += 2>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_sword>>

Marian nods and calls the men close. Five volunteer to delay the huntsmen, and take off into the woods.\n\n<<set $men -= 5>>\s\n<<set $ch2time += 16>>\s\n<<set $ch2followerdelay = 1>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

Little John and Allison share a drink by the fallen tree trunk. Little John nods to you. "Are you ready to cross?" He glances upriver towards the ruins. <<if $ch2_daylight gt 0>>"The ghosts come out at dark, and I'd rather be away before then."<<endif>><<if ($ch2_daylight lte 0)>>"The ghosts are out, and I'd rather be away before they wander down here."<<endif>>\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

<<if $male>>\s\n"You’re <<print $player_name>>, of course," Rosalind stammers. "I didn’t want to be forward, but it’s important for you to know how much I appreciate your getting us away from Guy of Gisborne. There, I’ve said it." \n\n<<display ch1interlude_$ros_romance>>\n<<else>>\s\n"Anyway," Rosalind shows no intention of leaving. "You're really impressive, for a woman. Not that we can't do everything..." she backpeddals, falls silent for a minute. "We're not the only ones who tried to get away, we're just the only ones who suceeded." She swallows her words and falls completely silent.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_ros_unwise>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $start_horse to false>>\s\n<<set $renown += 175>>\s\nHoliday bolts into the night, across a small stream to wash away your scent. The sounds of the hound slowly receded into the darkness.\n\n<<display escape_on_horse>>

You hear a mournful howl echo through the chamber. Probably just the wind cutting across the hillside.\n\nYou test the grip on the bow, and feel a surge of confidence. This is the bow of a great knight, far better than the strip of wood you've been using. With this bow, you could shoot the wings off a fly at 50 paces!\n\n<<set $ch2bow = false>>\s\n<<set $elspeth_bow = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

"I'm sorry, Sir Bedivere," Marian embraces the bear. "Even if Robin isn't. Come on, let's look to your wounds."\n\nMarian, Little John, and Sir Bedivere pointedly walk away.\n\nYou're left alone with the trees, the lights, and your thoughts. Finally, the three return. "Well," John says. "You didn't do him more than a scratch, so no harm done." He's all smiles once more.\n\n<<display ch2dinner_B>>

<<if ($questions eq 4) and ($ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued")>>\s\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison2>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display questions_to_allison>>\n<<endif>>\s

Little John leans against the fallen tree trunk talking quietly with Allison, the shepherdess. He laughs, and beckons you over. "You've done me a good turn, rescuing Alison. I'll repay you in kind. You may cross when you will."\n\n<<if $ch2_daylight gt 0>>\s\nAllison looks upriver towards the ruins. "There are ghosts that come out at dark. It's better to cross before then."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_daylight lte 0)>>\s\nAllison looks upriver towards the ruins. "The ghosts are out. Best to cross as soon as you can."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

[[“Stop the Sheriff's men. Show the people that someone out here cares. The people will follow.”|ch1_outlawdinner_stopsheriff]]\n[[“We don't wait. There are mercenaries out there, warriors displaced by the Crusades. With them, we can have an army in no time.”|ch1_outlawdinner_money]]\n[[“Rob from the rich, give to the poor. The people will love us when we return what's been taken from them.”|ch1_outlawdinner_money]]\n<<if not $ch1_outlawdinner_didnoble>>\s\n[[“Meet with the nobles. They don't like the Sheriff any more than we do, and they can quickly raise an army if they've something to rally around.”|ch1_outlawdinner_nobles]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<set $grace += $forest_perk>>\s\nThe Black Knight bows low. "There shall be no more violence this night. Go, the crossing is clear. I shall hold this villain here." He pauses, lowers his visor. "Justice is done and the curse is lifted; Sherwood shall not not forget this deed. Thank you."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn_grief>>\n<<display ch2spirits_end>>

Guy walks away, his back straight and proud.\n\n"Guy will not rest until he avenges this slight," Marian counsels. "Like a dog with a bone, he'll hold this grudge."\n\n<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\n<<set $renown += 200>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 68>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "10 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

"I know you will, Robin. <<if $elspeth_sword neq "marian">>See you on the other side?"<<endif>><<if $elspeth_sword eq "marian">>Don’t worry," she pats her hip. "I have her sword."<<endif>>\n<<set $possessed = "Marian">>\s\n\n[[I give her a quick hug.|ch2spirits_i_give_her_a_quick]]\n[[“You need something, you say it. I'll be here for you.”|ch2spirits_you_need_something_you_say]]

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\nYou hurry across the Great Hall. Guards to stagger out of side passages in your wake, coughing and beating small fires from their clothes.\n\n"Locksley!" The Sheriff cries through the smoke. A blazing ceiling beam crashes to the floor behind you, blocks the door. "This isn’t over, Locksley!"\n\n<<display Yard_in_chaos>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<display ch2crypt_return_sword>>

"But I will," Marian steps forward. "Robin, we can't let this girl die here."\n\n<<if $rosalind_present>>\s\n"Marian's right," Rosalind swallows her fear. "I'm here, too, if you think I can help."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_ladies_night>>

<<if not $elsa_present>>\s\nThe unicorn — her body covered in fresh scars — staggers up the hill beneath the rising moon. She whinnies, full of grief and pain, and gallops out of sight. The windswept hill feels empty and cold.\n<<else>>\s\nElsa whinnies, full of grief and pain, and gallops out of sight. The windswept hill feels empty and cold.\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2crossing_see_ghosts>>

<<if $male>>\s\n"<<print $player_name>>, isn’t it?" Much seems undeterred. I was the one that surprised you in the woods. Anyway, I was hoping we could get off to a better start." He twists his hands around each other. "I’ve been with Marian from the start, see? <<display ch1interlude_marian_pitch>>\n<<else>>\s\n"You’re <<print $player_name>>, of course," Much seems undeterred. "I was the one that surprised you in the woods. Anyway, I was hoping we could get off to a better start." He twists his hands around each other. "As it were, you should know you’re mighty pretty." \n\n<<display ch1interlude_much_ladies_man>>\n<<endif>>\s

As you fall over the edge, you catch sight of a snow white unicorn, nacre horn tipped with blood, watching you from the top of the hollow. The wolf howls long and low.\n\n<<display ch1start_river>>

"You've guts to even head up there." John grips his staff tight. Come on, <<if not $ch2cross>>across the river we go. I'll waive payment this one time."<<endif>><<if $ch2cross>>across the river we go."<<endif>><<set $john_present = true>>\n\n<<display crossing_departure>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n"I can, and will." Father Timothy nods towards the back. "A secret passage behind the altar opens up into the forest’s edge. Is there anything you need before you go?"\n\n[[“I escaped with nothing. Any gold or silver you can spare will get me far.”|I_escaped_with_nothing]]\n[[“A letter of introduction would ease my passage.”|A_letter_of_introduction]]\n[[“Anyone who can run should come with me. I fear for the safety of this community.”|Anyone_who_can_run]]\n[[“Naught but your blessing, father.”|Naught_but_your_blessing]]

<<set $gold -= 5000>>\s\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\nLittle John accepts the money. "The toll is paid." <<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "stolen">><<display ch2_paid_truth_is_out>><<endif>>\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

<<display ch2crypt_take_sword>>

<<set $john_argument -= 50>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_argument>>\s

Three billy goats wander away from the herd and bleat at your approach. Bells around their necks clang and clang beneath the warm, soft sun.\n\n<<if $ch2magic_advice>>\s\n<<set $questions-->>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $ch2goats = "petted">>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_goats>>

You notice several scraps of paper strewn near the bed.\n\n//To be bold//\n//Your hair like gold//\n//Far better than mold//\n\nand\n\n//The gods gave Jason the golden fleece//\n//You are as beautiful//\n//Though less like your sheep//.\n\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess neq "unknown")>>\s\nThey appear to be failed snippets of love poetry dedicated to Allison, the shepherdess.\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess eq "unknown")>>\s\nThey appear to be failed snippets of love poetry dedicated to a shepherdess with golden hair.\n<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "late">>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<display ch2cave_bear>>

<<if not $perks_tooltip>>\n<<set $perks_tooltip = true>>\n@@color:green;You've just gained a measure of Grace. Once you find a home in Sherwood, Grace can be used to accomplish special missions. Your background grants you a small measure of Grace, and exceptional actions can gain you more over the course of your adventure.@@\n<<endif>>

<<set $renown +=150>>\s\nYou pause, and take stock of your forces. The survivors from your household are grim, smeared with soot. Too few managed to escape once the fire began.\n\n"We’ll follow you, Robin, wherever you lead," one of the men, a carpenter, growls. "And we’ll have our revenge."\n\n<<display Fire_end>>

You follow the tracks through the forest. There are bandits in Sherwood, but these tracks are different somehow...\n\n<<set $marian = "outlaw">>\s\n<<display ch1marian>>

"Yer certainly stubborn, I'll grant you that," John huffs. "Never had anyone come back fer a third whompin'!"\n\n<<display ch2crossing_down_and_out>>

The hounds snarl and snap, your arrows like sharp insect bites in their thick hides. But they see you, and charge — wolf and unicorn forgotten.\n\n"Robin, this way." Marian takes your hand and pulls you in a different direction. "I used to play in this part of the forest as a child." You can feel the hot breath of the hounds on your neck. "Now, do you trust me?" \n\n[[“Of course!”|ch1_morning_trust]]\n[[“We've only just met.”|ch1_morning_distrust]]

"Friar Tuck." Marian nods. "He ministers the poor and dispossessed in Nottingham, those displaced by the Crusades and Prince John's endless taxes."\n\n<<if $john_present>>\s\n"We should make contact with him as soon as we have the chance," Little John speaks around a mouthful of food. "He could help us gather support against the Sheriff."\n\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\nMarian catches you eye, as if to say "See? I told you..."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2dinner_dinner>>

"That's the spirit! Ha, get it? Spirit?" Little John claps you on the shoulder, nearly driving you to your knees. "I'll be here when you get back."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

<<if not $camp_information>>\n<<set $camp_information to true>>\n@@color:green;You are in camp. Be it on the road, in a hidden cave, or behind fortress walls, camp is a moment of safety from the Sheriff's men. While in camp, you may have the opportunity to use resources to advance your cause and engage in conversation – frivolous or otherwise — with your allies.@@\n<<endif>>

Rosalind steps back, blinks, and tries on a tentative smile. "Alright. Here I go."\n\n<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength -= $ros_romance*100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_transfer>>

<<set $ch1_nobleq_marry to true>>\s\n"My family is an old one, with extensive lands and titles. With our marriage, the Sheriff could legitimize his claims of nobility and even aspire to the throne, were Prince John to be...inconvenienced."\n\n[[“Does Prince John know of the Sheriff's plans?”|ch1_nobleq_marry_john]]\n[[“Can we use this information against the Sheriff?”|ch1_nobleq_marry_info]]\n[[I watch the fire and consider the prospect of regicide.|ch1_nobleq_marry_silent]]

<<set $renown -= $spirit_strength>>\s\nElspeth tries to wrench control of your arms, but you jerk your shoulders and the blade buries itself in the ground.\n\nThe Black Knight slowly raises his visor — selfsame blue eyes and blond hair with a masculine jaw, wisps of a beard.\n\n"He was my brother!" Elspeth wails. "My twin brother, and I killed him."\n\nThe spirit's memories hammer through your mind — the bitter divisions after Arthur’s death, Camelot’s fall, the fateful final duel. Elspeth’s bones do not reside in the crypt; there was no one left to bury them. They are scattered across the knoll after she threw herself from the tower battlements.\n\nThe Sheriff gets to his feet and glares daggers, but the Black Knight holds him back.\n\nElspeth steps from your body and stands, silhouetted in the scattered lightning. She looks away into the wind — and unearthly baying fills your ears. "The hounds of heaven rise from their place by the fire; they’re chasing me down." She raises her hand to you in farewell. The baying comes closer. "You believe in redemption, Robin? I still don’t know."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_decision>>

There were a lot of people, Robin. But…" <<display ch1interlude_missing_much>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\nSensible. Unicorns are said to be almost impossible to approach, requiring exquisite patience to coax one's head to your lap. And that, if you're a virgin maid... With the Sheriff's men doubtless hunting you, fanciful unicorn-baiting is the last thing you need.\n\nA cloud passes over the sun. When you glance backwards, the unicorn is gone.\n\n<<if $I_take_refuge_in_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest>>\s\nThe approaching forest swallows the horizon. Isolated trees merge into twisted thickets, and you're forced to circle the edge, search for an entrance.\n\n<<display wolf_sighting>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display top_level_choices>>\n<<endif>>\s

One of the other men bursts out laughing. "Get that, Much? <<if $start_female>>The girl<<else>>The boy<<endif>> actually believed you were the king's warden!"\n\n<<display ch1marian_no_joke>>

"Love at first sight. Jump!"\n\n<<display ch1_guy_hounds_leap>>

Wolf lets out a long, lonely howl — a howl answered by huntsman’s horns and the distant thunder of hooves. "Go, then." He licks the unicorn’s wounds. "I’ll try to get her to safety."\n\n<<display ch1_morning_help_stumble>>\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1500>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 52>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "Noon.">>\s\n\n<<display ch1interlude>>

Guy must’ve caught some sign of movement from the corner of his eye. He throws himself to the side and your arrow sinks into the dirt. "Have at thee!" He’s upon you with astounding speed. His blade rings against yours like the tolling of Sunday bells and he kicks out, knocking you to the ground. You kick back — sending hot tea into his face.\n\nSuddenly, Guy lets his sword drop from his hands. Marian is behind him, her dagger across his neck.\n\n"Marian," he squeaks. "Lovely to see you again. And Locksley. What a pair you make."\n\n<<display ch1_guy_capture>>

<<set $I_send_men_to_scout_ahead = true>>\s\nYour men put down their food and sprint ahead. They return a short time later, and report a hidden pass through a nearby ridge.\n\n<<set $men -= 5>>\s\n<<set $ch2time += 5>>\s\n<<display ch1_camp_options>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $start_food to true>>\s\n<<set $start_day++>>\s\nYour followers spread out among the hills, searching for berries and edible greens. There will be enough food tonight for all. Now other concerns await your attention.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

Bedivere walks in a circle around the treasure and lies on top of it. His dark eyes follow you out of the cave and all the way to the base of the waterfall.\n\n<<set $ch2_john_treasure = "found">>\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

<<set $serf = true>>\s\n<<set $grace += 2>>\s\n<<set $peasant_perk = 3>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_gender>>\n<<display perks_tooltip>>

<<if $ch2cave_walk eq "success">>\s\n<<display ch2cave>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display checking_the_cave>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_lance>>

You finish your disguise with a wide-brimmed hat, step into the hall, and join a group of fleeing servants. <<if $start_male>><<display male_disguise>><<elseif $start_female>>\n\n<<display female_disguise>>\n<<endif>>\s

"Did you have to leave him to drown?" Marian stares at the rushing water. "Nevermind. The Sheriff's men are coming; we should cross with all haste."\n\n<<set $john_absent to true>>\s\n<<display crossing_departure>>

<<display ch2crypt_replace_bow>>

<<if not $war_room_information>>\n<<set $war_room_information = true>>\n@@color:green;Marian keeps track of a variety of projects and concerns from the War Room. Minor projects often take little or no time, while major projects, which may take weeks, are marked with @@@@color:magenta;(!).@@@@color:green; Lastly, there are plans that take the entire season to work through. These are marked in (!). While you're off adventuring, it's possible that your home will change and grow — or fall into disrepair.@@\n<<endif>>

<<if $start_horse>>\s\nHoliday throws you just inside the trees, and bolts. Your head ringing, you push forward regardless through the underbrush.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch1start>>

Sir Bedivere crashes through the brush, scattering hounds left and right. Little John is right behind, and his quarterstaff knocks huntsmen and horses aside with equal ease.\n\nThe Sheriff parries Little John's blows, but he is clearly loosing. He rears his horse and fixes you with a glare. "You won't always have a bear and a giant to hide behind. Yah!" He gallops after his men.\n\n"You made a friend of both of us today, Robin." Little John claps you on the shoulder as the huntsmen flee through the forest. "Rare is it when someone walks into a room full of treasure and doesn't take a single shilling. Now, let's head into the Deepwood and I'll treat you to dinner."\n\n<<if $ch2followerdelay gt 0>>\s\nThe men you left at the defile rejoin you, bruised but not beaten.\n\n<<set $men += 5>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $john_present = true>>\s\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 3000>>\s\n<<display crossing_departure>>

"Smart move." Marian's eyes gleam. "Let’s get out of here. The Sheriff is going to be furious."\n\nGuy is none the wiser as you disappear into the forest.\n\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 84>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "8 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

<<display ch2travel_defile>>

<<display ch2shepherdess>>

Without warning a white hart bursts from the trees, followed swiftly by a large, gray wolf.\n\n<<if $start_weapons>>\s\n[[That deer could be mine! I take aim with my bow.|and_will_fend_the_wolf_from_my_kill]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[Nature is brutal, but fascinating. I pause to watch the kill.|I_pause_to_watch_the_kill]]\n[[Deer and wolf will work things out. I give the creatures a wide berth and continue on my way.|I_give_the_creatures_a_wide_berth_and_continue_on_my_way]]

Try as you might, the stone slab does not move. It's either locked or too heavy for you.\n\n<<set $ch2coffin_open = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt_coffin1>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $start_horse to true>>\s\n<<set $renown += 250>>\s\n"I hope you’re right, Robin." One of the stable hands glances nervously back at the house.\n\nYou burst from the stables and ride hard across the fields.\n\n<<display away_on_horse>>

"Let's hope it doesn't come to that now," Matilda bustles in and takes Marian's plate. "Come now, my lady. Think not those dark thoughts."\n\n"Thank you, Matilda." Marian smiles at her lady-in-waiting. "I'll try to be more cheerful."\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

<<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>\s\nThe shepherdess’ eyes roll up in her head and she collapses, unconscious, to the ground. A spectral figure stands over her — a young woman in full plate armor, her face worn with care, her blond hair braided down to the middle of her back.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued">>\s\nThe spectral figure stands — a young woman in full plate armor, her face worn with care, her blond hair braided down to the middle of her back.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $possessed neq "Robin">>\s\n<<print $possessed>> nods, and the ghost steps into her. <<print $possessed>> shudders, rolls her shoulders, and faces the setting sun. "The Black Knight comes," ghost and girl speak with one voice. "There is little time." <<if ($possessed eq "Marian") and ($elspeth_sword eq "marian")>> She draws her sword and swings it back and forth across her body. "To have this blade again. Marvelous." <<set $spirit_strength += 100>><<if $ch2sword>><<set $spirit_strength -= 300>><<endif>><<endif>>\n\n<<display ch2spirits_help_ally>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_help_self>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2crypt_leave_crypt>>

<<set $ch1_nobleq_scarlet to true>>\s\n"Indeed." Marian nods to herself. "I had high hopes of encountering Sir Will Scarlet. As the King's Warden, he watches over the forest from a fortified tower in the Deepwood, with dozens of highly trained men at his command. Trusted and respected throughout the land, he could face down the Sheriff and his lackeys."\n\n[[“He sounds like a real hero.”|ch1_nobleq_scarlet_hero]]\n[[“You don't need him, if you believe in yourself.”|ch1_nobleq_scarlet_self]]\n[[I add another log to the fire and let Marian think.|ch1_nobleq_scarlet_silent]]

<<if not $start_woman>>"I hope you are saving yourself for true love," the unicorn angles its horn towards your heart. "Perhaps we shall meet again."<<else>>"And a maiden fair," The unicorn angles its horn towards your heart. "At least in appearance. Perhaps we shall meet again."<<set $start_magic++>><<endif>>\n\n<<display unicorn_departure>>

<<display ch2dinner_future>>

and your feet go flying out from under you. It was a feint! The cold water closes over your head and it's all you can do to stay afloat as you're swept downstream, around a bend, and over a waterfall.\n\nJohn is good, but you know you'd best him in a fair fight. Now that you've seen his trick, you won't fall for that again. Literally.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_swim>>

<<set $Time_to_loot_Little_Johns_treasure to true>>\s\n<<if not $ch2bearfriend>>\s\nMarian stops you. "We can't go back in there, Robin. Not with that bear. It'll tear us to pieces."\n\n<<else>>\s\nMarian stops you. "Sir Bedivere a sweetheart. We're not fighting our way past him to steal Little John's treasure."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>

Goats like carrots. You have carrots, and three goats following you looking for another treat.\n\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2goats = "follow">>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_start>>

Marian pauses at the edge of the firelight. "Better get some rest. We leave at dawn. Oh, and one more thing, Robin. Like I said, you survived the hounds, gave these men hope that escape — at least — is possible. I'd like you to take charge of this band with me, make the split-second decisions while I handle the larger picture."\n\n[[“What if I'm not interested in leading?”|ch1_outlawdinner_notaleader]]\n[[“I'll do my best.”|ch1_outlawdinner_isleader]]

<<display end_demo>>

<<if (not $ch2_allison_question1) and (not $met_allison)>>\s\n[[“Who are you?”|ch2shepherdess_who_are_you]]\n<<elseif (not $ch2_allison_question1) and ($met_allison)>>\s\n[[“Wait, I know you!|ch2shepherdess_I_know_you]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_allison_question2>>\s\n[[“What happened?”|ch2shepherdess_what_happened]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_allison_question3>>\s\n[[“Do you know Little John?”|ch2shepherdess_do_you_know_little_john]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_allison_question4>>\s\n[[“These hills are haunted?”|ch2shepherdess_these_hills_are_haunted]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued")>>\s\n[[“I don't have any more questions. Good luck!”|ch2shepherdess_i_dont_have_any_more]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>\s\n[[“I have some rope. Grab hold, and we'll have you out of there in a minute.”|ch2shepherdess_rope]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess eq "trapped")>>\s\n[[“Hold tight. We'll be back soon to get you out.”|ch2shepherdess_hold_tight_we'll_be_back]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<if ($ch2followerdelay eq 2) or (($ch2followerdelay eq 1) and ($ch2_daylight gt 0))>>\s\n"Hold on a minute." Marian sends a runner, and the men you left at the defile rejoin you in short order.\n\n"We left a couple dummies by the entrance," one of your men wheezes. "Those huntsmen are still cowering behind some rocks, waiting for us to make a move."\n\n<<set $men += 5>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_across1>>\n<<elseif ($ch2followerdelay eq 1) and ($ch2_daylight lte 0)>>\s\n"Wait, we've left people behind at the defile!" Marian draws a special arrow from her quiver and lights it with flint and steel. The arrow sparks with white fire, and she sends it high into the air.\n\nThere's an answering arrow from the direction of the defile, this one bright red. "They're pinned down." Marian bites her lip and glances back along your trail.\n\n[[“We cross now or their sacrifice will be in vain.”|ch2crossing_lost_men]]\n[[“Back to the defile. I won't leave our men behind.”|ch2crossing_back_to_the_defile_i]]\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_across1>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2spirits_john>>

You quickly return to the surface and dry off before you catch a chill.\n\n<<set $ch2time-->>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight-->>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_pool_start>>

<<if $john_present>>\s\n"I could tell," Little John levels an appraising stare over the table. "You move like one born to the woods. It's in your blood."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n"Why did you climb, Robin?" Marian runs her hands along the oak's smooth bark. "When I was a child, I'd do anything to get away from my governess. But I was always afraid of heights." She smiles. "I still am."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_past>>

<<nobr>>\nBedivere's thick hide stops your blade, and his paws bat away deadlier blows as if he's fought men and learned their ways. Yet you are\n<<if $male>>\nno average swordsman.\n<<endif>>\n<<if $female>>\nno man.\n<<endif>>\nYou draw the bear into a maneuver that has him tripping over his own paw, and deliver a quick slice across his nose.\n<<endnobr>>\nBedivere yelps and runs away.\n\nYou have no trouble leaving the cave.\n\n<<set $ch2bedivere_wounded = true>>\s\n<<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "taken">>\s\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>\s

<<if $ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued">>\s\nStepping close, you see no knight at all, only empty flagstones. Then lightning flashes through the clouds above, and in the afterimage there is the knight in armor, fading, failing. The woman speaks.\n\n"Begone, mortal. I am already caught in the darkness. There is no need to increase the tally."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_top_free_spirit>>\n<<else>>\s\nStepping close, you see no knight at all but rather a shepherdess; her clothing torn and dirty. Then lightning flashes through the clouds, and in the afterimage there is the knight in armor, fading, failing. The woman speaks with two voices from the same throat.\n\n//"Begone, mortal. This one is already caught in the darkness. There is no need to tally two tonight."//\n\n"Help me, please. I don’t want to die."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_top_allison>>\n<<endif>>\s

Little John backs onto the bridge as you approach with the goats. "Now wait a minute... Stay back!"\n\nThe goats leap onto the bridge and charge. Little John knocks the first goat into the river, and then the second, but the third butts him in the stomach and he goes pinwheeling into the water!\n\n<<set $ch2goats = "crossed">>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_falling>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $men += 15>>\s\n<<set $start_women to true>>\s\nFather Timothy helps you gather a small group. "I must believe the church is sacrosanct," he pauses. "Yet it would be irresponsible not to send as many away while I still can."\n\n<<display There’s_a_heavy_thumping>>\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\n"Blimey." The guard darts out the door, not noticing sacks at your feet. "The Sheriff will reward me right well, he will."\n\nThat’s that. You hoist your sacks over your shoulders and escape into the night.\n\n<<display Smoke>>

A hound, bull-massive and bright as a noontime sun, steps betwixt shadow and sight. "The gates of heaven shall be barred forevermore unto her soul," it growls.\n\nThe second hound, whip-thin and black as a pit, slips out of blood and smoke. "The throne of hell shall be filled by another, and our realm hidden forevermore from her sight."\n\n"You consign my sister to eternity on Earth," the Black Knight thunders. "Not even I am so cruel. Better, far better, the alternative."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_last_chance>>

Marian barely bats an eye and begins tearing her clothes into long strips for bandages.\n\n"See to Elsa first," Wolf says. "I’ll be fine."\n\nThe unicorn sits, silent, as you clean and dress her wounds. She just breathes slow and deep, her spiral horned glowing with a soft, steady light. The shadows slip beneath you and lengthen again, and the unicorn stumbles to her feet. "Enough," she speaks. "I am well…enough. Go, before it is too late."\n\n"She means it," Wolf bumps your thigh. "Come on. Don’t argue with her."\n\n<<set $wolf = true>>\s\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<set $elsa_present = true>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1500>>\s\n<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 44>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "1 pm.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

Before you can act, the bear sniffs, yawns, and pads over to a corner of the room to lie down.\n\n"Maybe we should leave," Marian suggests.\n\n<<display ch2cave_sleepybear>>

<<set $start_faith++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\nThe smoke and heat becomes nigh unbearable, and tall flames block many of the passages through the house. Your search is fruitless, and you’re forced by circumstance into the Great Hall; the front door is the only exit left.\n\n<<display Great_Hall_on_fire>>\n\n<<display great_hall_alone>>

The bear butts his head against your hand and rolls around on the floor.\n\n<<if not $ch2bearfriend>>\s\n<<set $ch2bearfriend = true>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_sleepybear>>

<<set $start_magic++>>\s\nThe hounds break through the wood with the sound of a thunderstorm. Huge, slavering, black as coal, the three beasts fan out to cut off any escape.\n\nThe hounds stop, bounce as if repelled by an invisible wall. They circle the border of the ring, snapping and snarling, spraying saliva all over you. The mushrooms may stop their teeth, but it does not stop their spittle.\n\nA wolf crashes into the hounds, drives it into the magical barrier and is in turn thrown through to land at your feet. You meet the wolf’s golden eyes, that same wolf who crossed your path on the road, and swear he winks, as if to say: "Watch this."\n\nThe mushrooms pulse and glow, set off a spray of phosphorescent spores. The hounds sneeze, and sneeze again. One of them whines, and then as a pack they vanish into the woods. You hear they rough sneezes fade in the distance.\n\nThe wolf steps back through the ring, stretches his front paws, and is gone.\n\n<<display ch1start_R>>

"I don’t know," the unicorn admits. "I am a poor excuse for a magical purity test, I’ll admit. But to redeem my friend? There is no redemption without atonement, Robin. This battle cannot suffice."\n\n<<set $man = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2spirits_is_she_at_fault_is to true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn_top>>

"Truly," Marian cocks an eyebrow. "How embarrassing. I should know more about you. We have been nearly neighbors our entire lives. Who are you?"\n\n<<display identity_choices>>

Marian shakes her head. "The death of Prince John, King of England in all but name while Richard is at the Crusades, could throw the kingdom into chaos. As despicable as he is, it's my firm belief that Prince John must not die before the nobility accepts a successor." She laughs. "Not that it matters to us. We have other things to worry about."\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

You climb back to the windswept knoll.\n\n<<display ch2ruins>>

Bone weary and exhausted, you \n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\nstumble into camp\n<<endif>>\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\nstumble across Rosalind and Matilda\n<<endif>>\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\nmake camp\n<<endif>>\n just before dawn.

<<if $personal eq 4>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2personal_questions>>\n<<endif>>\s

"Thank you my friend," he bows to you. "I am Devon Muir, a merchant out of Nottingham, and you have my thanks. Though there was little of worth on me save my clothing and some business plans of dubious worth." He checks the sky. "Many apologies, but I must be on my way." He disappears down a bend in the road.\n\n<<set $devon_thanks_you to true>>\s\n<<display time_of_day>>

"Strange and terrifying creatures are said to live in the Deepwood. The men are afraid of dragons and trolls, and I've yet to convince them there's nothing there."\n\n[[“Nothing but stories. They're just woods, like any other.”|ch1outlawdinner_like_any_other]]\n[[“I wouldn't be so sure of that.”|ch1_outlawq_deeper_doubt]]\n[[I toss another stick on the fire.|ch1_outlawq_deeper_silent]]

You leap along the path, and make it to the cave entrance in no time.\n\nMarian arrives, breathless and giggling, on your heels. She wipes her wet hair out of her face. "If at first you don't succeed, eh, Robin?"\n\nThe slick rocks and precarious footing give you an idea. You might be able to trigger a landslide at the Defile to hold off the Sheriff's men. It's risky, but it just might work.\n\n<<set $ch2defile-->>\s\n<<set $ch2cave_walk = "success">>\s\n<<display ch2cave>>

<<display ch2travel_ruins>>

<<display ch2shepherdess_rope>>

<<display end_demo>>

[[The outlaws have killed a deer...|The_outlaws_have_killed_a_deer]]

<<if not $start_weapons>>\s \nYou begin to salivate, thinking on how you will roast a deer, when you’re hit with an ugly realization. You have no bow, no arrows with which to hunt.\n\n<<set $no_venison = true>>\s\n<<display food_searching>>\n<<else>>\s \nYou step into Sherwood Forest, supposedly a haunted realm of fairies and boggarts. Definitely a forest preserve, hunted only at the king’s whim and overseen by his warden.\n\nWith King Richard off at the Crusades, the forest has not been hunted in some time. Deer are plentiful, and you quickly down a young buck, and sling it over your shoulders.\n\n<<set $start_food to true>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1000>>\s\n<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<display time_of_day>>\n<<endif>>\s

[[“Here's my royal seal. Proof of my birth.”|ch2johnquestions_here's_my_royal_seal_proof]]\n[[“I'm building an army within these woods, for these woods.”|ch2johnquestions_im_building_an_army_within]]

Rosalind’s blush deepens. "Look at us. I mean, I barely know you…" She takes several deep breaths. "My parents were healers in the area, before being conscripted into King Richard’s crusade. We used to walk the borders of the forest, and I learned about all sorts of useful plants. That one there, for instance…" Rosalind happily discourses on the medicinal plants of Sherwood, her eyes largely on the forest and only blushing now and again.\n\n<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

"Right?" Marian laughs. "So long as we rob on principle, it's okay."\n\nYou are discriminate as you load your packs, picking out coinage and objects that can easily be sold on the black market. Several items look to be of sentimental value, and you leave them in spite of their worth.\n\n<<set $ch2_john_treasure = "taken">>\s\n<<display ch2cave_bear>>

The fire slowly burns down to embers. A wolf howls nearby.\n\n"Don't worry," Marian says. "I set charms around our campsite. We won't be bothered tonight."\n\n[[“I wasn't worried, but it's nice to have company.”|ch1_magicdinner_noquestions_brave]]\n[[“Good. We need to focus on stopping the Sheriff. What's the plan tomorrow?”|ch1_magicdinner_noquestions_focus]]\n[[I warm my hands over the last of the coals, and listen once more for the howl of the lonely wolf. “A wolf helped me escape the hounds.”|ch1_magicdinner_noquestions_wolf]]

"I trust you, Robin. We'd better be back."\n\n<<display ch2ruins>>

"You have my banner, my lance, broken though it may be."\n\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

<<if $start_weapons>>\s\n<<set $no_venison = false>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $start_day eq 1>>\s\n<<display unicorn_sighting>>\n<<elseif $start_day eq 2>>\s\n<<display wolf_sighting>>\n<<elseif ($start_day gte 4) or (($start_day gte 3) and ($start_food) and ($start_weapons) and ($men eq 0))>>\s\n<<display Forced_refuge>>\n<<elseif (($start_food) and ($start_weapons) and ($men eq 0)) and ($start_direction)>>\s\n<<display Forced_refuge>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display top_level_choices>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2travel_defile>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $start_nature++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 250>>\s\n<<display I_escape_out_the_back>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<if $elspeth_sword eq "">>\s\n[[I examine the pool.|ch2waterfall_i_examine_the_pool]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_john_treasure eq "") or ($ch2_mushrooms neq "picked")>>\s\n[[I head towards the cave.|ch2waterfall_i_head_towards_the_cave]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_waterfall_search>>\s\n[[I search downriver for another crossing.|ch2waterfall_i_search_downriver_for_another]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_john_treasure eq "taken") and $ch2bedivere_wounded>>\s\n[[I loot more of Little John's treasure.|ch2waterfall_i_loot_more_of_little]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "found" and $ch2_mushrooms eq "picked" and not $Time_to_loot_Little_Johns_treasure>>\s\n[[Time to loot Little John's treasure.|Time_to_loot_Little_Johns_treasure]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I leave the area.|ch2waterfall_i_leave_the_area]]

"Purrrrfect." Marian rubs her hands together and whispers words of magic and mayhem.\n\nGuy makes a strangled noise and falls over in front of his campfire. He gags, gasps, and yowls! Out of Guy's red doublet crawls an orange tabby.\n\n"He'll revert to his human form by the end of the day." Marian strides into the campsite and pokes through Guy's saddlebags. The tabby hisses and scrambles up a nearby tree. "Robin... There's gold here. Guy must’ve been collecting the local taxes before detouring to hunt you through the forest." She keeps digging through the bags. "There's more... This whistle, we can use it to call the hounds back from their hunt."\n\n<<set $guy = "cat">>\s\n[[“If we summon the hounds, they'll be on our trail instead. Leave it.”|ch1_guy_cat_leave]]\n[[“Blow the whistle. If it's the wolf and unicorn who're being hunted... I owe them that much.”|ch1_guy_whistle]]

The fire sends up a shower of sparks as the new log takes hold.\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

One. His staff goes sailing into the river.\n\nTwo. You sweep his legs from under him. Little John lands on his back, desperately scrabbles for purchase.\n\nThree. Your staff comes to rest at his throat.\n\n"I can't," Little John breathes. "I can't swim."\n<<set $staffmaster to true>>\s\n<<set $grace += $peasant_perk>>\s\n<<set $renown += 200>>\s\n\n[[“Do you yield?”|ch2crossing_john_yield]]\n[[I knock him into the water.|ch2crossing_falling]]

<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\nThe Sheriff levels his lance at your heart. You have no shield, no horse, and your weapon is less than half the length. You have no chance —\n\nElspeth takes control of your body and you roll beneath the horse's charge, slice the girth strap, and return to your feet with only minor bruises.\n\nThe Sheriff pinwheels his arms. His saddle slowly slides sideways, and he topples to the ground.\n\nYou leap to his side. Your nemesis, the Black Knight, lies stunned. You raise your sword.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_kill>>

<<set $start_anna to "nothing">>\s\n<<display Leaving_Woodbridge>>

<<if $marian is "outlaw">>\s\nMarian gestures to her men. "Every man and woman here is a free farmer forced into the woods, forced off their lands by the crooked Sheriff.\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian is "noble">>\s\n Marian looks away and bites her lip. "There wasn’t much hope that the Sheriff would limit himself to terrorizing recalcitrant nobility, was there?\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian is "magic">>\s\nMarian frowns, sour. "The Sheriff stole our lands and imprisoned my father because he felt like it..." She shrugs. "Though there was that pretext of my practicing black magic.\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<set $yeoman = true>>\s\n<<set $grace += 2>>\s\n<<set $forest_perk = 2>>\s\n<<set $peasant_perk = 2>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_gender>>\n<<display perks_tooltip>>

Marian walks into the night. "These men are counting on us, Robin. Let's not let them down."\n\nYou take command of a band of Merry Men. \n\n<<set $men += 12>>\s\n<<set $much_present = true>>\s\n[[The Next Morning...|ch1morning]]\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\nShe grits her teeth. "He's too dangerous to leave alive. I say we kill him and be done with it."\n\n"Wait," Guy protests. "I surrendered!"\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\nShe looks upon him with barely concealed disgust. "He surrendered however, and by the rules of chivalry, we must release him."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\nShe smiles, an evil glint in her eye. "I could curse him with a humiliating scent that persists no matter how often he bathes."\n\n[[“A proper curse? I agree. Let's let him go, naked and stinking. His rings will compensate us for our trouble.”|ch1_guy_marianopinion_curse]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Let him go, naked. His rings will compensate us for our trouble.”|ch1_guy_marianopinion_naked]]\n[[“Let him go. Word of his defeat at our hands will inspire hope among the people. Resistance is possible.”|ch1_guy_marianopinion_release]]\n[[“I'll kill him. A dead enemy will never bother us again.”|ch1_guy_marianopinion_kill]]

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<display Split_up_men>>

<<if not $ch1_magicq_whysherwood>>\s\n[[“Why did you come to Sherwood?”|ch1_magicq_whysherwood]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch1_magicq_whatnext>>\s\n[[“What are you planning to do next?”|ch1_magicq_whatnext]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch1_magicq_teachmagic>>\s\n[[“Can you teach me magic?”|ch1_magicq_teachmagic]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch1_question eq 1>>\s\n[[I chew my jerky and listen to the forest. I don't have any questions.|ch1_magicdinner_noquestions]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[I fiddle with some sticks and let the silence grow. I don't have any more questions.|ch1_magicdinner_noquestions]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 3000>>\s\nThe Sheriff slowly descends the burning balustrade, his sword gleams dull like a fog shrouded morning, seeming to drink in the light. "Finish?" The Sheriff laughs, his face remaining shrouded in darkness. "But we’ve barely begun."\n\nA blazing ceiling beam crashes to the floor between you and the Sheriff, followed by a rain of debris. The house is collapsing in on itself.\n\nA wash of smoke and soot forces you, coughing, into the yard. "This isn’t over, Locksley!" The Sheriff’s voice follows you out of the burning building. "I will find you!"\n\nThe yard is in chaos. The fire has spread to the church. You hurry into the night<<display A_hopeful_escape>> <<display Fire_end>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

The way the mushrooms grow together, you don't think you can harvest a reasonable quantity of one without disturbing the other.\n\n<<if $rosalind_present or $much_present>>\s\n[[I gather some purple nightcap.|ch2cave_i_gather_some_purple_nightcap]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\n[[I gather some of the purple mushrooms.|ch2cave_i_gather_some_of_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $rosalind_present or ($marian eq "magic")>>\s\n[[I gather some spring bonnet.|ch2cave_i_gather_some_spring_bonnet]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $much_present>>\s\n[[I gather some of the white mushrooms.|ch2cave_i_gather_some_of_the_mushrooms]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I take my chances and harvest all the mushroom. I'll dry them for later use.|ch2cave_i_take_my_chances_and]]\n[[I'm not interested in mushrooms right now.|ch2cave_im_not_interested_in_mushrooms]]

Guy strains at the rockslide and uncovers first one, then the other buried hound. "Alive. Thank God, they are alive." He pets their broad, flat heads and whispers in their ears.\n\n<<set $ch1_morning_question = 0>>\s\n<<display ch1_morning_parley>>

Little John gestures across the river. "After you."\n\n[[“Let's get out of here before the Sheriff's men arrive.”|ch2crossing_get_away_now]]\n<<if $ch2ghosts and not $black_knight_vow>>\s\n[[“Wait. I once heard a story of ghosts by the ruins.”|ch2crossing_ghost_story]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $black_knight_vow>>\s\n[[“Do ghosts not battle nightly near the ruins?”|ch2crossing_ghost_story]]\n<<endif>>\s

[img[ruined-towerFBheader.jpg]]\n\nKing Richard the Lionheart is gone to the Crusades, along with most of England’s able-bodied men, and has left the kingdom in the hands of his brother, the wicked Prince John. Meanwhile, the Prince's ambitious crony, the Sheriff of Nottingham, terrorizes the countryside.\n\nAs you strive against the evil Sheriff, your every choice will change your fate. But fate can be fickle or forgiving. Just how much so depends on you.\n\n!!!<center>Choose Your Difficulty Level</center>\n[[Story-Mode|casual_difficulty]]: The state of England is a chaos waiting to be relieved by your actions. Skilled warriors, battle-hardened from years of war and unrest, are ready to join your band. Gold travelling through Sherwood is lightly guarded.\n\n[[Normal|normal_difficulty]]: The best of England is away at the Crusades, but a core group of skilled yeomen remain in the country, ready to fight injustice at your call. Gold travelling through Sherwood is moderately guarded.\n\n[[Challenging|hard_difficulty]]: You're just another band of ruffians, while the Sheriff's forces are highly trained and ride regular patrols around Sherwood. Gold travelling through Sherwood is heavily guarded, and the challenges you'll face may demand hard choices.\n\n[[Impossible|impossible_difficulty]]: The Sheriff and his company of elite soldiers wrap Sherwood in an iron fist, while only untrained peasants are desperate enough to join your cause. You begin with nothing; may God have mercy on your soul.\n\n[[About the Author|About_the_author]]\n\n//This back garden submission is just a taste of Nocked! True Tales of Robin Hood, to be released on iOS in the Summer 2016. Built on the new Disbound engine from Unmapped Path and the creators of Twine, Nocked will offer a lush mobile IF experience. Find out more at [[Nocked! True Tales of Robin Hood|http://www.nockedthegame.com]].//

Guy sits, watching his tea brew, while you get into position. You give the signal, and the clearing is full of your men.\n\nGuy stands slowly, his hands over his head. "Locksley and Marian. You make a fine pair. I see you found some friends."\n\n<<set $ambush = true>>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_parley>>

"Yep. Marian’s most inconvenienced by the loss of her maid, but," he pauses again, smacks his lips, "so was I by the loss of my sweetheart. We ain’t made it known so I appreciate if you don’t spread it around. Anyway," he deliberately changes the subject. "Did you know I grew up around Sherwood? Figure there’s a thing or two I can teach you about the forest." Much begins pointing out different plants and their uses. The topic of Rosalind does not come up again.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

Your men disperse to Marian’s quick orders. "Just in case the Black Knight doesn’t play by the rules? Good thinking, Robin. We’ll be ready."\n\n<<set $marian_action = "outlaw">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

Three hounds, three arrows. The lead hound breaks through the underbrush with the sound of a thunderstorm. Your first arrow sinks deep into its shoulder. Your second arrow is caught in its jaws, snapped in half. Then there is no more time. You draw your sword and step into the hound's charge.\n\nThree hundred pounds of coal-black muscle pass over your shoulder. You roll, your sword glances from its underbelly but your dagger cuts the nose of the second hound and you vault over its back — the third hound snaps empty air.\n\nYou feel last year’s brittle leaves crunch under your feet, sink slightly into the soft loam. The hounds circle, heads low and wary. Suddenly, they raise their heads to the sky, turn, and vanish into the forest.\n\nA unicorn stands proud on the crest of a hill. Silhouetted in the last light of the sun, it watches you.\n\nOpposite, in the shadows of the deep forest, a wolf — gold eyes gleaming — prowls back and forth. It, too, watches you.\n\nThen, in the blink of an eye, both beasts vanish.\n\n<<set $renown += 275>>\s\n<<display ch1start_R>>

"Sure thing, sure thing," he tips his hat. "Didn’t mean to impugn your abilities." \n\n<<display ch1interlude_much_intro>>

"You know, I don't often have guests in the Deepwood; other than Squire Will Scarlet — the Warden of Sherwood that is." Little John leads you across the bridge. "Come along, I'll treat you to dinner."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_across>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $men = 0>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 5000>>\s\nThe other stable hands nod, grim. You leave Jack to his fate and press on. You and the other stable hands end up in a running battle, end up at the attic stairs, the guards close behind. There’s no escape.\n\n"I will not let them defile our home," one of the stable hands mimics your vow, smashing a lantern against the wall. Fire spreads through the hall and up the stairs to the eaves.\n\nThen the guards are upon you once more. You fight your way free, separated from the stable hands in the melee. Driven by smoke and fire, you stagger into the Great Hall.\n\n<<display Great_Hall_on_fire>>\n\n<<display great_hall_alone>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\nMarian instructs her ladies-in-waiting to continue on ahead and keep moving into the forest if you don’t catch up before dawn.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $ch1_guy_question = 0>>\s\nGuy is camped in the shelter of a large log. You have a perfect view of his red doublet and trimmed goatee as he hunches over his campfire, brewing tea in the chill, damp morning.\n\n<<display ch1_guy_start>>

[[I pass the bear a bit of meat.|ch2dinner_i_pass_the_bear_a]]\n[[I don't feed animals from the dinner table.|ch2dinner_i_dont_feed_animals_from]]

<<set $ch1_question++>>\s\n<<if $ch1_question eq 4>>\s\n<<display ch1_outlawdinner_noquestions>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch1_outlawdinner_opening_salvo>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if $ch2bearfriend>>\s\nThere's a huff, and a grunt, and Sir Bedivere joins you on the branch. The bear butts his head against your shoulder.\n\n"Ha!" John wrestles the bear onto his back. "He likes you."\n\nMarian laughs and lets the bear lap up a bit of her food. "We don't mind you either, do we Bedivere?"\n\n<<display happy_bear_choices>>\n<<elseif $ch2bedivere_wounded>>\s\nThere's a huff, and a grunt, and Sir Bedivere joins you on the branch. "What's this?" Little John ruffles the bear's head and looks him in the eye. "You've been hurt, Bedivere." He turns to you. "You did this, Robin. I don't begrudge you taking my gold — fair is fair, but you hurt my friend."\n\n<<display sorry_choices>>\n<<elseif not $ch2bedivere_wounded and ($ch2_john_treasure eq "found")>>\s\nThere's a huff, and a grunt, and Sir Bedivere joins you on the branch. The bear sniffs, yawns, and settles at Little John's feet.\n\n"Well, it looks like you two have met already." Little John slaps him on the flank. "He's friendly enough, just feed him some food or a bit of honey wine and he'll be your friend forever."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_meet_bedivere>>\n<<else>>\s\nThere's a huff, and a grunt, and a bear joins you on the branch. Little John tackles the bear and wrestles him onto his back, rubbing his tummy.\n\n"Robin," Little John grins. "I'd like you to meet Sir Bedivere, an old friend of mine."\n\nThe bear yawns in your general direction, though he looks far more interested in your dinner.\n\n<<display ch2dinner_meet_bedivere>>\n<<endif>>

<<set $start_nature++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\nShivers run down your spine is the Black Knight draws his sword — dull, gray steel that drinks in what little starlight filters to your feet. \n\nHe turns on his heel and vanishes in a pool of shadow. "Then I must find another who will hold the reins of darkness."\n\nYou move through the rest of the graveyard unhindered. Then, suddenly, the light of a normal lamp. <<display grave_guard_options>>

"And yer an upstart know-it-all. Ya!"\n\n<<display ch2crossing_down_and_out>>

The Sheriff's men draw ever closer while you dawdle.\n\n<<display ch2defile>>

<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\n"I used to have a stack of torches, but they got wet the night before you arrived and we haven't had the chance to make new ones."\n\n<<set $ch2marian_light = true>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_into_cave>>\n<<elseif $marian eq "noble">>\s\n<<set $ch2marian_light = true>>\s\n"Sorry, Robin. Spelunking was far from my mind when we fled my home. Shouldn't we be trying to cross the river ahead of the Sheriff instead of exploring old caves anyway?"\n\n<<display ch2cave_into_cave>>\n<<elseif $marian eq "magic">>\s\n"It's kind of you to ask." Marian closes her eyes and sings beneath her breath. The sparks that twinkle in her hair brighten and lift into the air. They spin and swarm around you, shedding light in a soft halo. "Good enough?" she smiles.\n\n<<set $ch2marian_light = true>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_interior>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $men += 25>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\nFather Timothy sighs. "Quickly then, my sword is in my study. You will make better use of it than I."\n\n<<display Quickly_gather_what_weapons>>\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

The sword is light and extremely well-balanced. Its blade is still bright and sharp in spite of the time underwater, and its pommel is edged in gold and stamped with the sigil of a griffon rampant. The sword feels like an extension of your arm, and you could swear it moves of its own volition.\n\n"It's a woman's weapon," Marian opines. "Note the narrow blade and smaller handle."\n\n<<if $wolf>>\s\n"I recognize this sword..." Wolf paws at the water. "From tales and ballads, of course. It was the weapon of Dame Elspeth, daughter of Sir Kay, King Arthur's foster brother. She survived Arthur's battle with Mordred, but mention of her life following Arthur's death is shrouded in the mists of time."\n\n<<set $ch2_elspeth_sword_information = true>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I keep the sword.|ch2waterfall_i_keep_the_sword]]\n[[I give the sword to Marian.|ch2waterfall_i_give_the_sword_to]]

"Would you take my spirit unto you willingly, and so throw yourself against the might of the blackest villain this land has ever seen?"\n\n<<set $allison_letter = "sent">>\s\n<<set $renown += 250>>\s\n[[“Come unto me, spirit.”|ch2spirits_come_unto_me_spirit_]]\n[[“No.”|ch2spirits_no]]

<<if $elspeth_sword eq "">>\s\n<<if $ch2dive>>\s\n[[I make another dive for the sword.|ch2waterfall_i_make_another_dive_for]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2dive>>\s\n[[I dive in to retrieve the sword.|ch2waterfall_i_dive_in_to_retrieve]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian eq "magic")>>\s\n[[“Marian, can you get that sword with magic?”|ch2waterfall_marian_can_you_get_that]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $much_present and not $ch2_pool_men>>\s\n[[I tell one of my men to dive in and get the sword.|ch2waterfall_i_tell_one_of_my]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $The_pool_is_cool>>\s\n[[I double check the pool for spare pennies.|The_pool_is_cool]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I walk away from the pool.|ch2waterfall_i_walk_away_from_the]]

"I'm Allison. My family lives just outside the forest. I bring our goats in here to graze." She shrugs. "Mother says they produce better cheese with a diet of haunted meadow grass."\n\n<<set $questions++>>\s\n<<set $ch2_allison_question1 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>

A school of small fish darts away from your shadow as you lean over the pool. The water is deep and clear, and the bottom is strewn with rocks. You spot a glint of metal in the dappled sunlight. There's a sword down there, partially buried beneath rocks and sediment.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_pool_start>>

"To our reluctant leader." Marian raises her cup. "I hope you find the peace you're looking for when this is over. I hope we all do."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_dinner>>

You stand in the center of the crypt. Outside, the wind howls over the hills like the baying of a thousand hounds.\n\n<<display ch2crypt>>

You move deep into the forest, fighting bramble and thorn, when there comes a dreadful baying on the wind. The Sheriff has released his hounds, and they are nearly upon you. <<if $start_horse>>Holiday throws you from his back and bolts.<<endif>>\n\n<<display ch1start>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $men += 5>>\s\n<<set $start_children to true>>\s\n<<set $start_cook to true>>\s\nCook and Anna are in the kitchen, a bag of supplies at their feet. With the stable hands and the children, you quickly disappear into the night. <<display Fire_end>>\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

"I've heard plenty of that before. What of it?"\n\n[[“When I rule England, you shall be appointed Duke of Sherwood Forest.”|ch2johnquestions_when_i_rule_england_you]]\n[[“Join us. Help us defeat the Sheriff, and you shall be richly rewarded.”|ch2johnquestions_argument]]

Marian takes a deep breath and blows, but the whistle makes no sound. None you can hear anyway. "Come on, let's get out of here.\n\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_hounds>>

John looks around again. "<<print $possessed>> is helping the spirit get vengeance, isn't she?" he surmises. "Come, Robin. We need to get back to the knoll."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>

"Hey there," one of Marian’s men drops back to walk with you. You’re forging deeper into Sherwood, single file through some dense, rocky terrain to throw off pursuit. "You’re, ah, carrying that pack all wrong, you know?"\n\n[[“I’m doing fine, thank you.”|ch1interlude_much_decline]]\n[[“You know a better way, I suppose?”|ch1_interlude_much_accept]]

<<set $bounty += 5000>>\s\nFlames lick the walls, painting the Great Hall in red and orange. Fortunately, the high ceiling captures most of the smoke and for a moment, you’re able to see. The front door is open.\n\nA figure steps onto the blazing balcony, obscured by the smoke. "Locksley!" The Sheriff snarls. "There you are."

"Robin," Wolf pauses. "Be careful." Then he's off like an arrow, fur and fangs barreling into the pack of shadows.\n\n<<set $elsa_present = false>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>

<<if not $stealth_information>>\n<<set $stealth_information to true>>\n@@color:green;The corridors surrounding the Nottingham castle ballroom are lightly patrolled, at least initially. Whenever a guard's alertness exceeds your @@@@color:red;Stealth@@@@color:green;, the guards notice something suspicious, and more of them patrol the halls. @@@@color:red;Guard Alertness@@@@color:green; increases with every step you take, and as a result of certain actions. If you hide quietly, or take other actions to allay suspicion as to your presence, the lazy @@@@color:red;Guards on Duty@@@@color:green; return to the dining hall to feast and drink.@@\n<<endif>>

You strike off through the woods. You enter a clearing and startle a white hart. It's eating out of the hand of a young woman in a calico dress. Tiny lights — like rainbow fireflies — flicker through her long, dark hair.\n\nThe hart tenses, and bounds away into the forest.\n\n"Oh dear," the woman addresses you. "I'm afraid you've frightened Actaeon. Well, I suppose it's better he forage for himself, now that the hounds are gone."\n\n<<set $marian = "magic">>\s\n<<display ch1marian>>

<<set $start_faith++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 250>>\s\n<<set $men += 3>>\s\nYou and the other stable hands carry Jack back to the kitchen. Cook binds his wounds while Anna shovel supplies into a sack. \n\n"We cannot stay here," Cook says. "Quickly, Robin."\n\nYou escape into the night. <<display Fire_end>>

<<display ch2cave_open>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $gold += 250>>\s\n"Did he now?" The guard grabs the silver while holding you at the point of his sword. "We’ll see about that." The guard walks you across the yard to the church. "Get in there. I’m going to make sure the silver gets where it needs going."\n\nWell, almost all the silver. You managed to secrete a fair amount of it in some hidden pockets before you were caught.\n\n<<display Church_intro>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

[[“Not if, Marian. When. We’ll get them out.”|ch1interlude_S_getout]]\n[[“We have enough to worry about. We’re not out of… Or deep enough into the woods yet.”|ch1interlude_S_woods]]\n[[I concentrate on our trail and don’t answer.|ch1interlude_S_silent]]

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $men += 2>>\s\n<<set $start_cook = true>>\s\n"Hold on," Anna, the scullery maid, unlocks the storage room and hands you a sack. "We won’t last long with just the clothes on our backs. Quick now, grab what’s important."\n\n[[Survival first. I take food and water.|Survival_first]]\n[[A new life requires money. I fill my bag with the household silver.|A_new_life]]\n[[Why choose? I grab a second bag and take both!|Why_choose]]\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

<<set $month = "March">>\n<<set $day_suffix = "th">>\n<<set $day = 23>>\n<<set $year = 1187>>\n<<set $player_name = "Robin">>\n<<set $chapter = 'Unknown'>>\n<<set $renown = 0>>\n<<set $bounty = 0>>\n<<set $gold = 0>>\n<<set $men = 0>>\n<<set $perk = 0>>\n<<set $player_title = ''>>\n<<set $player_surname = ''>>\n<<set $amaranth_courtship = "">>\n<<set $marriage = "">>\n<<set $display_tax_raid = 0>>\n<<set $display_church = 0>>\n<<set $display_noble = 0>>\n<<set $display_peasant = 0>>\n<<set $display_forest = 0>>\n<<set $display_camelot_total = 0>>\n<<set $display_fight_total = 0>>\n<<set $display_vote_total = 0>>\n<<set $display_ritual_total = 0>>\n<<set $grace = 0>>\n<<set $church_perk = 1>>\n<<set $noble_perk = 1>>\n<<set $peasant_perk = 1>>\n<<set $forest_perk = 1>>\n<<set $church_count = 0>>\n<<set $forest_count = 0>>\n<<set $noble_count = 0>>\n<<set $peasant_count = 0>>\n<<set $green_keywords = ".">>\n<<set $chapel_keywords = ".">>\n<<set $pool_keywords = ".">>\n<<set $tavern_keywords = ".">>\n<<set $forest_keywords = ".">>\n<<set $hall_keywords = ".">>\n<<set $raid_walking = 0>>\n<<set $courting_amaranth = "">>\n<<set $courting_much_talk = true>>\n<<set $elspeth_present = false>>\n<<set $marian_romance = 0>>\n<<set $much_romance = 0>>\n<<set $ros_romance = 0>>\n<<set $start_stealth = 0>>\n<<set $start_attack = 0>>\n<<set $start_diplomacy = 0>>\n<<set $start_faith = 0>>\n<<set $start_leadership = 0>>\n<<set $start_magic = 0>>\n<<set $start_clever = 0>>\n<<set $start_gold = 0>>\n<<set $start_nature = 0>>\n<<set $start_serf = 0>>\n<<set $start_yeoman = 0>>\n<<set $start_crusader = 0>>\n<<set $start_noble = 0>>\n<<set $start_royal = 0>>\n<<set $crossing = false>>\n<<set $start_identity = "">>\n<<set $green_knight = "">>\n<<set $scarf = "">>\n<<set $sheriff = "">>\n<<set $robin = "">>\n<<set $ritual_end = "">>\n<<set $courting_will = "">>\n<<set $ring = "">>\n<<set $friendly_winnings = "">>\n<<set $camelot_total = 0>>\n<<set $total_gold_to_nobles = 0>>\n<<set $total_gold_to_peasants = 0>>\n<<set $total_renown_to_nobles = 0>>\n<<set $total_renown_to_peasants = 0>>\n<<set $renown_pacing = 2>>\n<<set $collection = 0>>\n<<set $mayday = "">>\n<<set $castle = "">>\n<<set $new_years_day = "">>\n<<set $tournament = "">>\n<<set $bounty = 0>>\n<<set $season = "">>\n<<set $courting_eli = "">>\n<<set $hiram_location = "">>\n<<set $base_magic = 0>>\n<<set $base_strength = 0>>\n<<set $opinion = "">>\n<<set $hang_out = 0>>\n<<set $base_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $base_desc = "unimproved">>\n<<set $mews_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $matthew_talk = "false">>\n<<set $mews_desc = "falcon">>\n<<set $forest_desc = "wild">>\n<<set $forest_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $briar_witch = "">>\n<<set $faerie_ring = "">>\n<<set $green_desc = "wild">>\n<<set $green_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $two_headed_dragon = "">>\n<<set $renown2 = "">>\n<<set $pending_event = "">>\n<<set $event = "">>\n<<set $table_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $willie_tall = "">>\n<<set $hall_desc = "wild">>\n<<set $hall_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $hall_meals = "">>\n<<set $courting_marian = "">>\n<<set $ros_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $rosalind_library = "">>\n<<set $tapestry_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $ros_location = "">>\n<<set $ros_materials = "">>\n<<set $ros_doctorate = "">>\n<<set $ros_pending = 0>>\n<<set $ros_tuition = 0>>\n<<set $ros_romance = 0>>\n<<set $courting_ros = "">>\n<<set $elspeth_location = "">>\n<<set $courting_elspeth = "">>\n<<set $elspeth_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $tavern_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $gambling_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $brewery_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $beer_list = 0>>\n<<set $john_family_rescued = "">>\n<<set $becky_letter = "">>\n<<set $kelly_letter = "">>\n<<set $npc_matthew = "">>\n<<set $wagon_message = "">>\n<<set $bounty_message = "">>\n<<set $two_headed_message = "">>\n<<set $mail = 0>>\n<<set $marian_intro_letter = "">>\n<<set $brown_adam_letter_parlay = "">>\n<<set $allison_letter = "">>\n<<set $willie_letter = "">>\n<<set $prisoner_letter = "">>\n<<set $rosalind_letter = "">>\n<<set $much_letter = "">>\n<<set $fairy_letter = "">>\n<<set $will_crusade_letter = "">>\n<<set $brown_adam_letter2 = "">>\n<<set $katharine_letter = "">>\n<<set $ogre_letter = "">>\n<<set $henri_letter = "">>\n<<set $clara_letter = "">>\n<<set $hightower_favorable_response_letter = "">>\n<<set $hightower_angry_response_letter = "">>\n<<set $hightower_banner_letter = "">>\n<<set $will_romance_letter = "">>\n<<set $harald_letter = "">>\n<<set $hiram_upset = "">>\n<<set $kelly_thanks = "">>\n<<set $pool_desc = "wild">>\n<<set $pool_desc_number = 1>>\n<<set $pool_choice = "">>\n<<set $hoard = 50000>>\n<<set $tuition = 10000>>\n<<set $faerie_witness = "">>\n<<set $chapel_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $will_weapon = "">>\n<<set $smithy_tour = "">>\n<<set $will_weapon_number = 0>>\n<<set $courting_will = "">>\n<<set $dragons_breath_ale = "">>\n<<set $amaranth_grief = false>>\n<<set $amaranth_pending = 0>>\n<<set $amaranth_influence = "">>\n<<set $amaranth_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $amaranth_banner = "">>\n<<set $hightower_banner_letter = "">>\n<<set $hightower_favor = 0>>\n<<set $ogre_news = "">>\n<<set $ogre_news_number = 0>>\n<<set $amaranth_hoard_explanation = "">>\n<<set $amaranth_hoard = 0>>\n<<set $amaranth_flower = "">>\n<<set $amaranth_location = "">>\n<<set $john_talk_number = 0>>\n<<set $courting_john = "">>\n<<set $courting_much = "">>\n<<set $much_location = "">>\n<<set $much_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $much_gamble = "">>\n<<set $much_winnings = 0>>\n<<set $much_pending = 0>>\n<<set $much_odds = 2>>\n<<set $wolf_desc_number = 0>>\n<<set $wolf_location = "">>\n<<set $wolf_reinforcements = "">>\n<<set $will_talk = true>>\n<<set $music_room = "">>\n<<set $tavern = "">>\n<<set $smithy = "">>\n<<set $circle = "">>\n<<set $pool = "">>\n<<set $chapel = "">>\n<<set $alchemy = "">>\n<<set $gardens = "">>\n<<set $library = "">>\n<<set $ballroom = "">>\n<<set $table = "">>\n<<set $tapestry = "">>\n<<set $gambling_hall = "">>\n<<set $brewery = "">>\n<<set $monument = "">>\n<<set $viewed_options = 0>>\n<<set $smithy_sword = "">>\n<<set $jones = "">>\n<<set $jones_meeting = "">>\n<<set $village = "">>\n<<set $bounty_hunters = "">>\n<<set $dragon_and_indy = "">>\n<<set $fae_court = "">>\n<<set $brown_adam_meeting = "">>\n<<set $gold = 0>>\n<<set $men = 0>>\n<<set $renown = 0>>\n<<set $negative_gold = 0>>\n<<set $negative_men = 0>>\n<<set $negative_renown = 0>>\n<<set $tax_raid = 25>>\n<<set $spend_gold = 0>>\n<<set $spend_renown = 0>>\n<<set $gain_renown = 0>>\n<<set $gain_men = 0>>\n<<set $gain_gold = 0>>\n<<set $inter_gold_trigger = 0>>\n<<set $inter_renown_trigger = 0>>\n<<set $inter_bounty_trigger = 0>>\n<<set $courtship = "">>\n<<set $adam = "">>\n<<set $inter_party = "">>\n<<set $inter_dragon = "">>\n<<set $inter_fae = "">>\n<<set $dragon_hope = 0>>\n<<set $men = 0>>\n<<set $bounty = 0>>\n<<set $renown = 0>>\n<<set $gold = 0>>\n<<set $marian = "">>\n<<set $much_miller = 0>>\n<<set $wolf_connection = 0>>\n<<set $money = "">>\n<<set $peter_present = true>>\n<<set $much_chances = 0>>\n<<set $bedivere = "">>\n<<set $marian_romance = 0>>\n<<set $john_romance = 0>>\n<<set $ros_romance = 0>>\n<<set $will_romance = 0>>\n<<set $elspeth_romance = 0>>\n<<set $elspeth_sword = "">>\n<<set $purple_nightcap = 0>>\n<<set $spring_bonnet = 0>>\n<<set $slip_leaf = 0>>\n<<set $mandrake_root = 0>>\n<<set $alan_lute = "">>\n<<set $injury = 0>>\n<<set $base = "">>\n<<set $player_title = "">>\n<<set $player_surname = "">>\n<<set $marriange = "">>\n<<set $marian_romance = 2>>\n<<set $ros_romance = 0>>\n<<set $much_romance = 0>>\n<<set $john_romance = 0>>\n<<set $will_romance = 0>>\n<<set $eli_romance = 0>>\n<<set $vote_total = 0>>\s\n<<set $ritual_total = 0>>\s\n<<set $fight_total = 0>>\s\n<<set $ch9_plan = "">>\n<<set $magic_option = "false">>\n<<set $ch7_marian_card = true>>\n<<set $camelot_invitations = 0>>\n<<set $camelot_prep = 0>>\n<<set $dragonlings = "alive">>\n<<set $base_size = 0>>\n<<set $madrigal_concession = "">>\n<<set $mactavish_concession = "">>\n<<set $llewellyn_concession = "">>\n<<set $round_table = 12>>\n<<set $ch9_day = 0>>\n<<set $ch9_news = 0>>\n<<set $death_toll = 0>>\n<<set $Robin_Hood = "alive">>\n<<set $Final_game = "">>\n<<set $stamina = 100>>\n<<set $morale = 0>>\n<<set $prince_john = "alive">>\n<<set $ch8_henri_assist = "">>\n<<set $ch8_clara_visit = "">>\n<<set $ch8_clara_assist = "">>\n<<set $ch8_clara_joins = "">>\n<<set $ch8_third = "">>\n<<set $ch8_second = "">>\n<<set $ch8_winner = "">>\n<<set $ch8_dragon_form = true>>\n<<set $gk_werewolf = "">>\n<<set $ch7_card = "">>\n<<set $ch7food = "">>\n<<set $john_family = "">>\n<<set $scarf = "">>\n<<set $hydra = "alive">>\n<<set $examine = "the knight">>\n<<set $ch7_john = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_will = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_much = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_wolf = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_rosalind = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_palamedes = "">>\n<<set $ch7_amaranth = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_elspeth = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_allen = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_eli = "">>\n<<set $ch7_friar = "">>\n<<set $ch7_pel = "out">>\n<<set $ch7_banquet_time = 3>>\n<<set $ch7_marian = "">>\n<<set $ch7_robin = "">>\n<<set $cursebreaker = "">>\n<<set $allies = 0>>\n<<set $madrigal_help = "">>\n<<set $llewellyn_help = "">>\n<<set $mactavish_help = "">>\n<<set $tuck = "">>\n<<set $sheriff_curiosity = 5>>\n<<set $robert_talk = 0>>\n<<set $ramsmeade_talk = 0>>\n<<set $mactavish_talk = 0>>\n<<set $northrup_talk = 0>>\n<<set $madrigal_talk = 0>>\n<<set $llewellyn_talk = 0>>\n<<set $graham_talk = 0>>\n<<set $will_talk_castle = 0>>\n<<set $bishop_talk = 0>>\n<<set $ch6_ros = "">>\n<<set $ch6_goldrush = 0>>\n<<set $shadowpact = "">>\n<<set $sheriff_alert = 0>>\n<<set $sheriff_move = 0>>\n<<set $ball_position = 0>>\n<<set $sheriff_suspicion = 0>>\n<<set $hall_position = 0>>\n<<set $guard_alarm = 0>>\n<<set $stealth = 80>>\n<<set $guard1 = 0>>\n<<set $guard2 = 0>>\n<<set $guard3 = 0>>\n<<set $guard4 = 0>>\n<<set $woodbridge_distractions = 0>>\n<<set $alert = 1>>\n<<set $eggs = "">>\n<<set $costume_alert = 0>>\n<<set $ch6_goldcarry = 0>>\n<<set $ch6_total_gold = 6>>\n<<set $gold_tower = 0>>\n<<set $gold_solarium = 0>>\n<<set $ch6fight_tracker = 70>>\n<<set $ch6door_tracker = 3>>\n<<set $guests = 0>>\n<<set $costume_choice = 3>>\n<<set $sheriff_gold = 1>>\n<<set $ch6ally = "">>\n<<set $ch6_entry = "">>\n<<set $ch6_widelamp = "">>\n<<set $ch6guardian = "">>\n<<set $ch6_goldfriend = 0>>\n<<set $ch6_risky = "">>\n<<set $raid = 0>>\n<<set $ch6ally = "">>\n<<set $patrol = 0>>\n<<set $position = 0>>\n<<set $devon_present = true>>\n<<set $john_and_ros = 0>>\n<<set $ch5_wagons = "">>\n<<set $tuck_image = "">>\n<<set $logan = "alive">>\n<<set $ch5_jack_of_the_green = "">>\n<<set $ch5_summer_queen = "">>\n<<set $ch5_twins = "">>\n<<set $ch5_allen = "visited">>\n<<set $ch5_john = "visited">>\n<<set $ch5_will = "visited">>\n<<set $ch5_wolf = "visited">>\n<<set $ch5_much = "visited">>\n<<set $ch5_palamedes = "">>\n<<set $ch5_amaranth = "visited">>\n<<set $ch5_elspeth = "visited">>\n<<set $ch5_rosalind = "visited">>\n<<set $ch5_marian = "">>\n<<set $ch5wanderings = "">>\n<<set $ch5_elspeth_crush = "">>\n<<set $ch4_base_total = 0>>\n<<set $black_wolf_prisoners = "">>\n<<set $ch4_harald = "alive">>\n<<set $pellinore = "">>\n<<set $amaranth = "">>\n<<set $harald = "alive">>\n<<set $cave_magic = true>>\n<<set $herb_counter = 2>>\n<<set $ch4_herbs2 = "">>\n<<set $ch4_defenders_segue = "">>\n<<set $cap_dragon_name = "The dragon">>\n<<set $dragon_name = "dragon">>\n<<set $dragon_time = 5>>\n<<set $pellinore_time = 5>>\n<<set $ch4_battle_time = 0>>\n<<set $ch4_clearing_update = "">>\n<<set $ch4_horn_update = "">>\n<<set $ch4_amaranth_update = "">>\n<<set $ch4_pellinore_update = "">>\n<<set $ch4_arrivals = "">>\n<<set $ch4_unicorn = "">>\n<<set $ch4_herbs = "">>\n<<set $ch4_healing_cues = "">>\n<<set $ch4_base_attack = 0>>\n<<set $ch4_base_defense = 0>>\n<<set $ch4_base_health = 0>>\n<<set $ch4_black_wolves = 5000>>\n<<set $ch4_pellinore_healing = 0>>\n<<set $ch4_amaranth_healing = 0>>\n<<set $will_assigned = "out">>\n<<set $john_assigned = "out">>\n<<set $wolf_assigned = "out">>\n<<set $elspeth_assigned = "out">>\n<<set $robin_assigned = "">>\n<<set $marian_assigned = "">>\n<<set $rosalind_assigned = "out">>\n<<set $men_attack = 0>>\n<<set $men_defend = 0>>\n<<set $men_spring = 0>>\n<<set $men_night = 0>>\n<<set $men_slip = 0>>\n<<set $men_mandrake = 0>>\n<<set $men_glatisant = 0>>\n<<set $men_pelt = 0>>\n<<set $ch4_follower_number = 0>>\n<<set $night_search = 1>>\n<<set $slip_search = 1>>\n<<set $mandrake_search = 1>>\n<<set $will_gold_search = 2>>\n<<set $john_gold_search = 3>>\n<<set $unicorn_heal = 0>>\n<<set $forest_fight = 0>>\n<<set $clearing_fight = 0>>\n<<set $amaranth_health = "wounded">>\n<<set $pellinore_health = "wounded">>\n<<set $ch3_witch_reason = "">>\n<<set $grey_witch = "leaving">>\n<<set $ch3_robert_multiplier = 20>>\n<<set $ch3_will_multiplier = 20>>\n<<set $ch3_marian_divider = 1>>\n<<set $ch3_katarine_divider = 0>>\n<<set $ch3_gold_use = "">>\n<<set $ch3_crusade_trip = "">>\n<<set $ch3_noble_support = "">>\n<<set $ch3grey_name = "">>\n<<set $marian_father_tracking = 0>>\n<<set $noble_tracking = 0>>\n<<set $ch3_will_crusade = true>>\n<<set $ch3_will_name = "">>\n<<set $ch3_will_gold_stay = true>>\n<<set $ch2_tree = true>>\n<<set $ch2food = "">>\n<<set $personal = 0>>\n<<set $dream = false>>\n<<set $john_argument = 1000>>\n<<set $possessed_strength = 0>>\n<<set $spirit_strength = 1000>>\n<<set $ch2_clock = "10 am.">>\n<<set $ch2_staff_duel = 0>>\n<<set $ch2_location = "">>\n<<set $ch2_inventory = 0>>\n<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "unknown">>\n<<set $ch2_daylight = 100>>\n<<set $ch2_lastlight = 100>>\n<<set $ch2_john_treasure = "">>\n<<set $ch2cave_walk = "">>\n<<set $ch2_mushrooms = "">>\n<<set $ch2_time_passed = 0>>\n<<set $ch2_dream = "">>\n<<set $ch2time = 100>>\n<<set $ch2advice = 0>>\n<<set $ch2sheriff_time = 6>>\n<<set $ch2defile = 0>>\n<<set $ch2cave_entrance = 0>>\n<<set $ch2followerdelay = 0>>\n<<set $ch2goats = "grazing">>\n<<set $ch2bow = true>>\n<<set $ch2horn = true>>\n<<set $smarts = 0>>\n<<set $much_nickname = "">>\n<<set $chapter = "">>\n<<set $guy = "alive">>\n<<set $display_renown = 0>>\n<<set $display_gold = 0>>\n<<set $display_men = 0>>\n<<set $display_bounty = 0>>\n<<set $start_men = 0>>

The bear's claw catches you off-guard and knocks you to the ground.\n\n<<display ch2cave_bear_fail>>

; hopefully Cook, \n<<if not $start_stable>>\nand Anna \n<<else>>\nAnna, and the stable hands \n<<endif>>\nmade good their own escape.\n<<set $start_cook to true>>

"You're their lucky charm." <<display ch1_outlawdinner_end>>

[[Over the river and into the woods.|ch2interludeintro]]

[[“No. We’re not putting Friar Tuck in danger by asking him to spy for us.”|ch1interlude_F_no]]\n[[“Brilliant. Once we're established in the forest, we’ll get a message into town.”|ch1interlude_F_brilliant]]\n[[“I’ll think on it.”|ch1interlude_F_think]]

"Very well." Elspeth's presence settles into the back of your mind.\n\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>

<<set $men += 2>>\s\n[[The Next Morning...|The_Next_Morning]]\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $men += 25>>\s\n<<set $renown += 250>>\s\n<<set $start_women to true>>\s\nWomen and children climb into the secret passage. You grab Father Timothy’s sword from his chambers — from the days before he was chaplain to your small community — and join the men in the center of church.\n\n<<display Quickly_gather_what_weapons>>\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

<<set $marian_advice++>>\s\n<<if $marian_advice eq 4>>\s\nLittle John watches you, patient.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_noblechoices>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if not $men_explanation>>\n<<set $men_explanation to true>>\n@@color:green;You have just garnered the allegiance of several Merry Men, as they will come to be known. Among other things, they can help you win battles, waylay caravans, and steal the Crown's taxes. Merry Men can periodically be set to tasks or missions; they won't remain available for your use, but they return slowly over time.@@\n<<endif>>

<<display ch2dinner_im_sorry>>

<<set $ch1_outlawq_accomplish to true>>\s\n"Training and survival. We haven't made much progress against the Sheriff, though, and spirits are low. I don't know how long I can keep this group together."\n\n[[“You need a victory, something to prove you're on the right track.”|ch1_outlawq_accomplish_victory]]\n[[“Maybe you're not meant to lead.”|ch1_outlawq_accomplish_notmeant]]\n[[Food and conversation don't mix. I let Marian talk while I finish dinner.|ch1_outlawq_accomplish_silent]]

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\nMoments later you hear a high-pitched yip — a wolf in pain — and then that low, mournful howl of disappointment. Things didn't seem to work out for the wolf.\n\n<<if $I_take_refuge_in_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest>>\s\n<<display start_day_3>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display top_level_choices>>\n<<endif>>\s

"And you, Robin?" Marian chides. "What would your future be?"\n\n<<display ch2dinner_considering>>

Mist gathers between the trees, pooling in the hollows of their massive roots. Tendrils stretch and reach across open ground to form a net of silken fog.\n\n[[“I grew up with the forest,” I strike up the conversation. “Used to climb trees every chance I had.”|ch2dinner_i_grew_up_with_the]]\n[[I lean back against the Old Oak and listen to the sounds of the forest.|ch2dinner_i_lean_back_against_the]]

"Name’s Much. My father was also Much, and a miller, so people call me Much the Miller's Son. We’ve been so long running and all, and tired at night, I wanted to make sure we was properly introduced."\n\n[[“The pleasure’s all mine. Robin, of Locksley.”|ch1interlude_much_greet]]\n[[“Robin. There, we’re introduced.”|ch1interlude_much_greetbrief]]\n[[I say nothing. Maybe he’ll go away.|ch1interlude_much_silent]]

<b>About the Author and Game Designer:</b>\nAndrew G. Schneider always wanted to be a wizard when he grew up; now he makes magic with words. When not writing, he hunts the wild dust bunny and makes a mean pot of French onion soup. He lives in Washington, D.C., believes in unicorns, and is married to a wonderful woman who believes in him. He is the writer and designer of the upcoming text adventure game, [[Nocked! True Tales of Robin Hood|http://www.nockedthegame.com]], and is the author of the sand-slinging, swashbuckling adventure novel, [[Nothing Left to Wish For|http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QU5PO9G]], and the Tales from a Coffee Shop Princess; [[Waiting for My Happily Ever After|http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017WJZZKG]] and [[Undercaffeinated and Overexposed|http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QU6ITFQ]]. Find him on Facebook or check out his [[website|http://nockedthegame.com]].\n\n<b>About the Artist:</b>\nAmanda Spaid (Artist) Amanda is a fine artist and freelance Illustrator in the DC Metro area. Her subjects and mediums are wide, ranging from traditional oil, acrylic and colored pencil portraits of people and animals, to digital paintings with Sci-fi/Fantasy themes. She's a Maryland native, has a degree in Fine Arts from the School of Art and Design at Montgomery College in Silver Spring and a Bachelor's in Illustration from Columbus College of Art and Design in Ohio. Check out her [[other work at her website|http://www.amandaspaid.com]].\n\n[[Draw your bow!|difficulty_start]]

"Well, now, that’s quite true." Much whistles tunelessly. "But you can’t blame a man for having ambition," he flashes you a gap-toothed smile. "There was this girl once, Miss Sally, who lived in the next mill over…" He begins to regale you with his many failed attempts at wooing just about every passing maid in Nottinghamshire.\n\n[[This is funny. I keep listening.|ch1_interlude_much_keeplistening]]\n[[I hasten to move up in the line, and leave Much behind.|ch1interlude_leave_me_alone_much]]

You have Bedivere's hurts patched up in short order. The bear butts his head against your shoulder.\n\nLittle John crosses his arms. "That's an apology accepted, I'd say."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_A>>

"We'd have to go much deeper into the forest to find any such being, and even then I don't see why they would help us with a human affair. Unless there was a threat to the forest…" Marian thinks for a bit. "I read about a dragon once, who considered Sherwood its home. If it exists, and if we have money, it might talk to us. If we have a lot of money, it might even let us go afterwards. Dragons are tricky that way."\n\nShe fingers a silver pendant around her neck. "This is all I have left of mother, but if we meet the dragon... If we need it..." She shakes her head and stares into the fire.\n\n<<set $friends = true>>\s\n<<set $marian_pendant = true>>\s\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>

<<display ch2spirits_elsa_arrives>>

Your heart is pounding, your breath comes ragged in your lungs, your clothes are tattered and torn from the thickets and brambles, yet still the baying of hounds is at your heels.\n\nYou've made it to Sherwood Forest, the king’s forest, the no man’s expanse of untamed wilderness beyond Nottingham, yet still the Sheriff’s hounds rush to bring you to ground.\n\nBaskerville hounds, as large as a horse.\n\n<<if $start_weapons>>\s\n[[I draw my bow and plant my sword in the earth at my feet. Let them come.|ch1start_i_draw_my_bow_and]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[I climb the tree.|I_climb_the_tree]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $silver_cross>>\s\n[[I grab the cross around my neck and pray for salvation.|ch1start_i_grab_the_cross_around]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[The tree at my back is surrounded by a ring of mushrooms. A fairy ring. It is said to be a border the hounds will not cross.|The_tree_at_my_back]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I hear a river nearby. Cross it, and the hounds’ll lose my scent.|ch1start_i_hear_a_river_nearby]]

<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $brown_adam_weapons to true>>\s\nYou leave the smithy with a sharp, sturdy sword; a dagger; and a fine yew bow.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

The hounds surge past you. Each grabs one of Elspeth’s arms… And she is torn apart.\n\n"Justice is done." The Black Knight chuckles. "Oblivion." He tosses a blood-stained bag at your feet. "For your troubles. Now go. There shall be no more violence this night and the crossing is clear. I shall hold this villain here."\n\nInside the bag is thirty pieces of silver, worth far more for their antiquity.\n\n<<set $gold += 3000>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn_grief>>\n<<display ch2spirits_end>>

She shrugs. "Would you like me to be impressed? Or bow down to the fact your family managed to procreate?" Marian laughs. "It is kings and would-be kings who've caused all of this." She gestures at herself, at you.\n\n<<set $grace += 2>>\s\n<<set $noble_perk = 2>>\s\n<<set $forest_perk = 2>>\s\n<<set $royal to true>>\s\n<<set $royal_seal to true>>\s\n[[“Nevertheless, the kingdom is mine by right. I will raise the people of Nottingham in righteous rebellion and deal with my traitorous uncles.”|ch1marian_nevertheless_the_kingdom_is_mine]]\n[[“My existence was kept secret to avoid another war for the throne. I would not see the country dipped in blood on my account, but the Sheriff abuses his powers, and must pay for his crimes.”|ch1marian_my_existence_was_kept_secret]]\n\n<<display perks_tooltip>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\nThe bandits react quickly, old hands at the art of ambush. "I told you I thought there was someone else here," one of them grunts, pummeling you in the face.\n\nIt’s two against one, and their weapons give them an advantage. You’re quickly left groaning on the ground.\n\n"The attempt, if nothing else, was appreciated." The merchant helps you to your feet, now liberated of his affairs. "I am Devon Muir, a merchant from Nottingham. You have my gratitude, if nothing else." He gestures after his lost possessions. "Take care, I must be on my way."\n\n<<set $devon_met to true>>\s\n<<display time_of_day>>

The sun filters down through the trees, and a flock of ducks paddle furiously upriver. Little John stretches and runs his hands along the bark of his makeshift bridge.\n\n<<if $john_argument lte 0>>\s\n<<set $john_argument = 100>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $renown gte $john_argument>>\s\n[[“Join us, John. Let us cross together into the Deepwood.”|Let_us_cross_together_into_the_Deepwood]] (<<print $john_argument>> renown)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;“Join us, John. Let us cross together into the Deepwood.” (<<print $john_argument>> renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $renown gte $john_argument/2>>\s\n[[“Let us pass, John, and we shall trouble you no longer.”|and_we_shall_trouble_you_no_longer]] (<<print $john_argument/2>> renown)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;“Let us pass, John, and we shall trouble you no longer.” (<<print $john_argument/2>> renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I remain silent.|ch2johnquestions_skeptical]]

<<set $black_knight_defeated to true>>\s\n[[“Farewell, Elspeth. You’ll get what you deserve.”|ch2spirits_farewell_elspeth_youll_get_what]]\n[[“Only God can decide your fate.” I pause, and pray. “Hail Mary, full of grace…”|ch2spirits_thats_not_for_me_to]]\n[[“There is no redemption,” I step forward and grab her hand. “Without atonement.”|ch2spirits_there_is_no_redemption_i]]

You gaze despairingly over the hills. Maybe it really was just the wind.\n\n<<display ch2ruins_start>>

<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $gold += 3000>>\s\nFather Timothy reaches into his robes and hands you a small sack. "Silver, mostly, from the latest collection. Use it wisely."\n\n<<display There’s_a_heavy_thumping>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $men += 15>>\s\nYou disengage and escape out the back. Your men file out, <<if $start_women>>women and children in hand,<<endif>> and by the bedlam of the burning church, you race across the fields. There’s no pursuit, not immediately.\n\nSomeone looks back, calls out. The fire's spread to the house, to all the buildings of your home.\n\nYou pause, drawn to look in spite of yourself. <<display Fire_end>>\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

"Gotcha!" Marian's hand closes around your wrist, and she helps you up to the edge of the cliff. "Well, that was certainly exciting."\n\nYou look down the defile, now choked with trees and rubble. It'll take the Sheriff's men some time to get through that.\n\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2time += 16>>\s\n<<set $ch2_defile_stop4 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

<<display ch2dinner_healing>>

<<if $male>>\s\n"Oh, I suppose we are." Rosalind is taken aback, the freckles on her cheeks darkening perceptibly. "Look, I just wanted to say," she seems increasingly flustered. "Thank you for getting us away from Guy of Gisborne. We wouldn’t have done so well on our own." \n\n<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_$ros_romance>>\n<<else>>\s\n"Sure. Just like that," Rosalind laughs a little, tucks a strand of copper hair behind her ear. "We don't have to be friends, Robin. I just... We left so many behind when we fled the castle. And that fool miller's son..." She swallows and looks away.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_ros_unwise>>\n<<endif>>\s

Guy blows into the whistle. A chorus of howls rises through the trees. "Go, Locksley. You don’t have much time."\n<<set $guy = "honored">>\s\n\n<<display ch1_guy_hounds>>

You set out as before, following the woman's voice on the wind. But this time, when it sounds like her voice is getting stronger, you walk in the other direction.\n\nSoon enough, you find a hidden hollow. A young, blond-haired shepherdess sits in the hollow. An enormous stone slab blocks her way out.\n\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_found>>

Cook urges haste, but you just need another moment. You’re startled by heavy feet on the stairs, and realize that cook and the others have already left.\n\n"Well, well," a guard steps around the corner. Spits. "You must be Robin."\n\n[[Talk is cheap. I spit him with my sword.|Talk_is_cheap]]\n[[The house is lost. I grab a nearby lantern and smash it on the ground at his feet.|The_house_is_lost_deliberate]]\n[[“No, Sir.” I point after Cook and the stable hands. “But I saw Robin going that way. See, vanishing just over the hill.”|No_Sir]]

You fall into ice cold water, the river swollen with spring thaw and are swept downstream. You struggle for breath. You can’t feel your hands, your feet, and your limbs are like lead.\n\n<<if $start_woman>>"Here, lass!"<<else>>"Here, lad!"<<endif>>\n\nYou force your fingers closed over a stout branch, and are pulled to shore.\n\n<<set $marian = "outlaw">>\s\n<<set $ch1river = true>>\s\n<<display ch1marian>>

[[I stand aside. “Let justice be done.”|ch2spirits_i_stand_aside_let_justice]]\n[[“No.” I block his path, meet his blade with mine. “Not one more step.”|ch2spirits_no_i_block_his_path]]

Your men melt into the woods, and you turn to other matters.\n\n<<set $ch2time += 16>>\s\n<<set $men -= 5>>\s\n<<set $ch2followerdelay = 1>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

<<set $spirit_strength -= 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>

Marian takes the lead. She studies the surrounding forest and picks a direction, seemingly at random but with quiet certainty. "If anything should happen to them — Much, Ros, my father — neither spell nor steel shall keep the Sheriff from my wrath. This, I swear."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

Halfway across the field, Holiday snorts and rears. You hear a moment later, a baying that resonates deep in your chest. One of the Sheriff’s own hounds is on your trail.\n\n[[I send Holiday in one direction and run in the other. The horse will distract the hound.|I_send_holiday]]\n[[I ride hard, risk dangerous footing in the darkness, and hope to outpace the hound.|Ride_hard]]\n[[I turn to face the hound. There’s only one, after all.|I_turn_and_face]]

The yard is in chaos; the fire has spread to the church. <<if $start_children>>You hurry the children away into the night<<display A_hopeful_escape>><<set $men += 5>><<endif>> \n\n<<display Fire_end>>

<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\nMarian shakes your hand. "Call it serf or slave, in Sherwood all are equal, and free.\n\n<<display ch1marian_serf_choice>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\nShe curtsies.\n\n"You see, my lady," one of the ladies-in-waiting whispers loudly. "Nothing but a common serf who has run away to a life of banditry and fabricated this story such that you lower your guard. We must away before more come and we are overrun."\n\n"Peace, Matilda." Marian takes your hand and feels for rough calluses across your fingers. "Is it true? Are you a serf run away from the Sheriff's perfidy?"\n\n[[“I am. And I am alone.”|ch1marian_i_am_and_i_am]]\n[[“Not precisely. I've been hiding for days, and the peasants were more likely to take me in when I pretended to be one of them.”|ch1marian_not_precisely_ive_been_hiding]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\n"Well, it seems like we're in something of the same predicament. Not that I'm trying to compare my life to yours. I know I've been more fortunate…" She looks away and blushes. "Anyway, it's nice to meet you.\n\n<<display ch1marian_serf_choice>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2dinner_pirate>>

<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $gold += 1000>>\s\n<<set $start_food to true>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\nFurnished with the finest equipment and several weeks of food, you ride hard from Robert’s castle, pausing at the edge of his lands consider your options.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

<<set $start_faith++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<set $men += 3>>\s\n<<display Church_intro>>\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

You take a deep breath and leap into the water. The pool is much deeper than it looked from the surface, and the water is numbingly cold.\n\n[[That sword will be mine! I push myself downwards.|ch2waterfall_that_sword_will_be_mine]]\n[[It's too deep! I return to the surface empty-handed.|ch2waterfall_it's_too_deep_i_return]]

"As I live and breathe," Little John nods. "Part and parcel of an ancient curse. I'd leave them to it, if I were you."\n\n[[“I want to see the ghosts.”|ch2crossing_i_want_to_see_the]]\n[[“I've enough problems without investigating old curses. Let's cross.”|ch2crossing_across1]]

<<display ch2start_response>>

<<if $marian is "outlaw">>\s\nShe salutes. "Well met, Squire. Though I'm sorry to see you move from one war to another, these millers and farmers will benefit from your skills." Marian snaps a look sideways. "Not a word from you, Much. Robin could probably thrash you in <<if $start_female>>her<<else>>his<<endif>> sleep."\n\n"I weren't going to say nothing." Much holds up his hands.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian is "noble">>\s\nShe curtseys. "Well met, Squire. It's a sad state of the world when you escape one war only to find another. But unlike that misbegotten crusade, this is our home and we shall triumph.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian is "magic">>\s\nShe shrugs. "Get away from one war, end up in another?" Marian balances twin sparks in her palms. "Still, wizard and warrior do make a classic pair. Wizardress? Is that a word?\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $crusader = true>>\s\n<<set $grace += 2>>\s\n<<set $church_perk = 5>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_gender>>\n<<display perks_tooltip>>

"Then," Marian smiles slyly. "You still haven't answered the question."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_considering>>

//"Dame Elspeth of the Round Table. Daughter of Sir Kay. Commander of the sack of Camelot. Destroyer of all my father ever built. Oathbreaker. Misguided fool."//\n\n"Allison. I’m a shepherdess. I was trapped on the knoll. I just want to go home."\n\n<<set $ch2spirits_who_are_you to true>>\s\n<<set $curious++>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_top_allison>>

<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\nElsa lowers her head and thunders across the field.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_lance>>

<<display ch2travel_ruins>>

<<set $ch2defile++>>\s\nMarian looks to the men. "That'll buy us some time, but they may not make it to the crossing afterwards. You're asking them to sacrifice themselves for our safety."\n<<set $ch2_defile_stop1 = true>>\s\n\n[[“If we're caught, the resistance ends with us. Get the men into position.”|ch2defile_if_were_caught_the_resistance]]\n[[“We're in this together. Let's think of something else.”|ch2defile_were_in_this_together_lets]]

/***********************************************************************\n\tBLEACHED - A largely white style for SugarCube (v2.0.0+)\n***********************************************************************/\nbody {\n\tcolor: #111;\n\tbackground-color: #fff;\n}\na {\n\tcolor: #35c;\n}\na:hover {\n\tcolor: #57e;\n}\nbutton {\n\tcolor: #111;\n\tbackground-color: #acf;\n\tborder-color: #8ad;\n}\nbutton:hover {\n\tbackground-color: #8ad;\n\tborder-color: #68b;\n}\nbutton:disabled {\n\tbackground-color: #ccc;\n\tborder-color: #aaa;\n}\ninput, select, textarea {\n\tcolor: #111;\n\tborder-color: #ccc;\n}\ninput:focus, select:focus, textarea:focus,\ninput:hover, select:hover, textarea:hover {\n\tbackground-color: #eee;\n\tborder-color: #111;\n}\nhr {\n\tborder-color: #111;\n}\n\n.error {\n\tbackground-color: #eaa;\n\tborder-left-color: #d77;\n}\n\n#ui-bar {\n\tbackground-color: #eee;\n\tborder-color: #ccc;\n}\n#ui-bar hr {\n\tborder-color: #ccc;\n}\n#ui-bar-toggle {\n\tcolor: #111;\n\tborder-color: #ccc;\n}\n#ui-bar-toggle:hover {\n\tbackground-color: #ccc;\n\tborder-color: #111;\n}\n#menu ul {\n\tborder-color: #ccc;\n}\n#menu li:not(:first-child) {\n\tborder-top-color: #ccc;\n}\n#menu li a {\n\tcolor: #111;\n}\n#menu li a:hover {\n\tbackground-color: #ccc;\n\tborder-color: #111;\n}\n\n/* Default dialog styling */\n#ui-overlay {\n\tbackground-color: #777;\n}\n#ui-dialog-titlebar {\n\tbackground-color: #ccc;\n}\n#ui-dialog-close:hover {\n\tbackground-color: #b44;\n\tborder-color: #a33;\n}\n#ui-dialog-body {\n\tbackground-color: #fff;\n\tborder-color: #ccc;\n}\n#ui-dialog-body hr {\n\tbackground-color: #ccc;\n}\n\n/* List-based dialog styling */\n#ui-dialog-body.list li:not(:first-child) {\n\tborder-top-color: #ccc;\n}\n#ui-dialog-body.list li a {\n\tcolor: #111;\n}\n#ui-dialog-body.list li a:hover {\n\tbackground-color: #ccc;\n\tborder-color: #111;\n}\n\n/* Saves dialog styling */\n#ui-dialog-body.saves > *:not(:first-child),\n#ui-dialog-body.saves tr:not(:first-child) {\n\tborder-top-color: #ccc;\n}\n#ui-dialog-body.saves .empty {\n\tcolor: #777;\n}\n\n/* Settings dialog styling */\n#ui-dialog-body.settings button[id|="setting-control"] {\n\tcolor: #111;\n\tborder-color: #ccc;\n}\n#ui-dialog-body.settings button[id|="setting-control"]:hover {\n\tbackground-color: #eee;\n\tborder-color: #111;\n}\n#ui-dialog-body.settings button[id|="setting-control"].enabled {\n\tbackground-color: #9e9;\n\tborder-color: #7c7;\n}\n#ui-dialog-body.settings button[id|="setting-control"].enabled:hover {\n\tbackground-color: #7c7;\n\tborder-color: #5a5;\n}

<<if ($ch2_john_treasure eq "taken")>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_notstealth>>\n<<else>>\s\nBedivere rolls and rumbles with pleasure.\n<<if not $ch2bearfriend>>\s\n<<set $ch2bearfriend = true>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<display ch2cave_sleepybear>>\n<<endif>>\s

Guy bows his head. "You have honor, <<print $player_name>>. I will grant you that. And I will not forget this unexpected kindness."\n\n<<display ch1_morning_farewell>>

"I was just trying to be complementary, <<print $much_nickname>>." Much shoves his hands deep into his pockets. "You know Sherwood Forest is full of unicorns?" He begins talking about all the fabulous mythical creatures that are surely hiding behind this and that tree.\n\n[[I love stories!|ch1interlude_much_lovestories]]\n[[I hasten to move up in the line, and leave Much behind.|ch1interlude_leave_me_alone_much]]

"So it is." Little John checks it with his teeth and gives you a shrewd look. "So it is. Royal blood means nothing in the Deepwood, but the metal and gems are valuable enough."\n\n<<set $royal_seal = false>>\s\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_leave>>

<<set $ch2time-->>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 2>>\s\n"There's nothing simpler." Marian leaps into the water. Her skirts swirl around her, wrapping and warping over her body until there's suddenly a small, calico-colored cormorant diving for the bottom of the pool.\n\nMovement at the other end of the pool catches your eye, and you spot an exceptionally large pike emerging from behind a rock. It's going after Marian!\n\n[[I shoot the fish with an arrow.|ch2waterfall_i_shoot_the_fish_with]]\n[[I dive into the water to intercept the fish.|ch2waterfall_i_dive_into_the_water]]\n[[I let Marian take care of herself.|ch2waterfall_i_let_marian_take_care]]

<<set $start_gathering to true>>\s\n<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\nYour people nod. It’s not what they wanted to hear, but it makes too much sense to deny it. They begin gathering their belongings.\n\n<<if $gold gte 1000>>\s\n[[I distribute some money among them, to help pay for their lodgings or get them started on a new life.|I_distribute_some_money]] (1000 gold)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;I distribute some money among them, to help pay for their lodgings or get them started on a new life. (1000 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $renown gte 100>>\s\n[[I visit with each of them, and say my farewells.|I_visit_which_each_of_them]] (100 renown)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;I visit with each of them, and say my farewells. (100 renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I take my time and pack my things.|leaving]]\n[[I can spend no more time here. I set off immediately down the road.|I_can_spend_more_time_here]]\n\n<<display purchase_explanation>>

<<display ch2dinner_tuck>>

<<set $ch2rescue = true>>\s\n<<display ch2sheriff>>

Marian stares away through the forest and nods. "You’re probably right. Prudence is the better part of valor. We’ll have time to strike the Sheriff later."\n\nQuickly, you gather your belongings and set out deeper into the forest. By the time Guy stumbles across your trail, you’ll be long gone.\n\n<<set $ch2time = 100>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "Dawn.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

<<display ch2johnquestions_argument>>\s

<<if $ch2crossing_barter_again>>\s\nYou consider what you might trade for crossing the river.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $silver_cross>>\s\n[[“I have this silver cross. It's said to have belonged to Sir Gawain himself.”|ch2crossing_cross_given]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $elspeth_horn>>\s\n[[“I found this jewel-encrusted drinking horn.”|ch2crossing_horn_return]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $royal>>\s\n[[“This royal seal is worth the crossing.”|ch2crossing_seal_given]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“On second thought, I don't have anything to trade right now, sorry.”|ch2crossing_on_second_thought_i_dont]]\n<<if not $ch2quest>>\s\n[[“How about payment for services rendered? You're busy guarding this bridge. Is there anything we can help you with in the area?”|ch2crossing_quest_description]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2cave_hide>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $men += 30>>\s\nThere’s a heavy thumping at the doors, the Sheriff’s guards demanding entry. When the door doesn't open, they break it down.\n\nYou and your men surprise the guards with your defiance, briefly push them back. Then you hear it, breaking glass; then you smell it, a choking miasma. The church is on fire. \n\n[[“We’ve done what we can.” I tell my men. “Escape under cover of smoke!”|We’ve_done_what_we_can]]\n[[While everyone’s distracted, I fill my pockets with church gold.|Stealing_from_the_church]]\n[[I skewer the guard in front of me and rally my men. “No retreat! No surrender!”|No_retreat_No_surrender]]\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

You separate Guy's head from his shoulders with his own sword. He'll never bother you again.\n\n"Guy was the Sheriff's cousin," Marian counsels. "He'll have dozens of men scouring the forest once Guy's absence is noted." She spits on the body and strides away into the forest.\n\n<<set $guy = "dead">>\s\n<<set $bounty += 10000>>\s\n<<set $renown += 200>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 68>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "10 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

<<if $ch2complete_alcoves and $ch2torch>>\s\nThe room is empty. The alcoves have vanished.\n\nYou climb back to the surface. The wind across the knoll doesn't seem quite as bitter as before.\n\n<<set $ch2room = true>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt_alcove>>\n<<endif>>\s

Little John flails and screams as the river carries him away. He wasn't lying. He very clearly cannot swim.\n\n[[“For crying out loud.” I jump in to save him.|ch2crossing_save_john]]\n[[I leave John to his fate.|ch2crossing_fate_john]]

Marian throws a silver chalice at Bedivere's face, distracting him. "Now, Robin, run!"\n\nYou race past the furry monstrosity, but Bedivere's flailing claws catch your pack. Most of the money looted from the cave spills out in your wake.\n\nYou exit, pursued by a bear.\n\nBreathless, you make it back to the base of the waterfall. Thankfully, Bedivere doesn't follow you out of the cave.\n\n<<set $gold += 1000>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

Marian smiles brilliantly. "You are full of wonders, aren't you? And I thought I was the mistress of magic."\n\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>

<<display ch2cave_talk>>

<<set $escape_from_church = true>>\s\nYou slip, unnoticed, out of the church. <<display To_the_graveyard>>

"I want to believe you, Robin. Though we haven’t even rescued ourselves so it’s hard to imagine breaking into Nottingham Castle." She sighs and shakes her head. "I suppose we’ll take every day with the next. Hey, isn’t that a spring bonnet?" She bends down and comes up with a patch of white mushrooms. "Spring bonnets. I haven’t seen these in years…"\n\nShe begins describing the plants you come across, only occasionally overcome with thought, as if weighing the course of a chosen future.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

<<if not $ch2spirits_who_was_elspeth_>>\s\n[[“Who was Elspeth?”|ch2spirits_who_was_elspeth_]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2spirits_why_stop_the_fight>>\s\n[[“Why stop the fight?”|ch2spirits_why_stop_the_fight]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2spirits_is_she_at_fault_is>>\s\n[[“Is she at fault? Is this redemption?”|ch2spirits_is_she_at_fault_is]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $male and not $ch2spirits_but_im_a_man>>\s\n[[“But, I’m a man!”|ch2spirits_but_im_a_man]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $man>>\s\n[[I climb onto the unicorn's back and urge her to greater speed.|ch2spirits_i_bend_low_over_the]]\n<<endif>>\s

"The wolves of Sherwood have no love for the hounds, or so it's said in the tales. You’re fortunate though, that the beast didn’t turn on you afterwards."\n\n<<display ch1_magicdinner_plan>>

"The four of us? Alone?"\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_campfireplan>>

<<display ch2crypt_alcove_bow>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\n<<set $renown +=50>>\s\n<<display Great_Hall_on_fire>>\n\n<<display great_hall_alone>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<set $start_food to true>>\s\nYou leave the farm with baskets full of food, enough for at least a week.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

One of the Sheriff’s guards is relieving himself at the edge of the graveyard.\n\n[[I knock out the guard before he spots me.|I_knock_out_the_guard]]\n[[I take advantage of the guard’s distraction to steal his horse.|I_take_advantage_of_the_guards_distraction]]\n[[I impersonate the Sheriff from the shadows and send the guard running.|I_impersonate_Sheriff]]

Much smiles, just a crinkling around his eyes, and regales you with the fabled history of Sherwood. "They say that this whole land, before it was the king’s forest, belonged to a fearsome dragon. Of course, when Merlin came along..." The day passes that much faster.\n\n<<set $much_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

<<nobr>>\n<<display difficulty_start>>\n<<endnobr>>

"A man’s word is his bond, right?" Much slaps you on the back. "Knew you were a standup fellow ever since I saw you." He stares away into the forest. \n\n"Not saying she’s my girl but we went walking out once or twice, and I do appreciate her mightily. Not that it’s common knowledge so I’d appreciate if you don’t spread it around. Anyway," he deliberately changes the subject. "Did you know I grew up around Sherwood? Figure there’s a thing or two I can teach you about the forest." Much begins pointing out different plants and their uses. The topic of Rosalind does not come up again.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

"Of course, Princess." Marian bows her head. "But imagine, for a moment, that queenship is not an option."\n\n<<set $pirate_king = true>>\s\n<<display ch2dinner_considering>>

You battle your way through the pack of shades to the unicorn's side.\n\n"Late, as usual, Elsa." Wolf bounds in the circle.\n\n"You try battling through an age-old blood curse in a //timely manner//," Elsa snipes.\n\n"Elsa," Elspeth sobs. "I never thought to see you again!"\n\n"Peace, Elspeth. All is forgiven, and long since. Now mount."\n\nYou leap to the unicorn’s back, no reins or stirrup required, and ride to meet the Black Knight.\n\n"Robin," the unicorn’s words are for you alone. "Follow your heart. Victory is not enough for either side. Seek redemption, yet without atonement…" You sense Elsa wants to say more, but her voice is silenced by the power of this place.\n\n<<set $elsa_saved = true>>\s\n<<set $elsa_present = true>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 300>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>

"What shall we do with him, Robin?" Marian asks, tightening her grip. "Guy of Gisborne led the sack of my home."\n\n<<display ch1_guy_marianopinion>>

Andrew G. Schneider

"I’m coming." Marian shoulders her pack and takes your arm, turning you around. "You’ll never find them without me."\n\n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\nWith a few spare words she instructs the men to continue on; keep moving into the forest if you don’t catch up before dawn.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\nWith a few spare words she instructs her ladies-in-waiting to continue on; keep moving into the forest if you don’t catch up before dawn.\n\n<<endif>>\s\nYou fly through the trees, following the terrible baying of the Sheriff’s hounds. Lungs burning and limbs trembling, you burst into a break in the forest. A wolf and a unicorn are back-to-back against the face of a cliff, surrounded by a trio of Baskervilles. The unicorn is bleeding from a dozen wounds, and the wolf's fur is matted with blood.\n\n"Well, I’ll be..." Marian whispers, awestruck.\n\n[[The wolf and unicorn need help. I throw myself into the fight.|ch1_morning_helpwolfunicorn]]\n[[Better to fight from a distance. An arrow in the cracked cliff face will set off a rockslide and bury the hounds.|ch1_morning_crack]]\n[[Three arrows. “Let’s get the hounds’ attention and get out of here.”|ch1_morning_arrows]]

"Thought I told you already. I'm Little John, tasked by the Warden of Sherwood and the king himself to keep common folk out of the Deepwood."\n\n<<set $ch2_john_question1 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_personal_questions>>

<<if not $base_information>>\n<<set $base_information = true>>\n@@color:green;This is your home base. Much as in camp, you'll have the opportunity to use resources to advance your cause and engage in conversation. Whenever you leave, your base is likely to be different on your return. Your Merry Men are happy to engage in their own projects, but sometimes they appreciate your help or opinion, so feel free to explore.@@\n<<endif>>

"Squire Will Scarlet, duly appointed to watch over these environs. He comes by now and again, and we share a drink."\n\nMarian speaks up. "I've heard of Will Scarlet. He's no friend of the Sheriff, and he takes his duties to the forest very seriously."\n\n<<set $ch2johnquestions_whos_the_warden_of_sherwood to true>>\s\n<<set $personal++>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_personal_questions>>

"Aye, what of it?" Little John looks confused. "Say, where’s your friend?"\n\n<<display spirit_john_choices>>

and spin away, aim for his legs. Little John jumps over your staff, but appears to lose his balance and falls from the bridge.\n\nYou leap forwards as John climbs up behind you. His eyes fill with panic as blow after blow forces him back along the bridge.\n\n[[“You've grown too comfortable with your routine.”|ch2crossing_upstart]]\n[[I grimly concentrate on the fight.|ch2crossing_concentrate]]

"Barter?" Little John crouches to look you in the eye. "I thought you'd never ask. What do you have to offer?"\n\n<<set $ch2barter_talk = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_john_barter>>

Your lack of interest doesn't seem to bother the cave. You stand at the base of the waterfall.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>

<<if $ch2marian_light and not $ch2torch>>\s\nUnfortunately, the cave is dark, and you have no light. You're forced to give up after a few steps and back away to the entrance.\n\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_first_steps>>\n<<endif>>\s

The hill is quiet and idyllic. A rogue zephyr plays with your hair.\n\n<<display ch2ruins_start>>

<<set $ch2magic_consider = true>>\s\n"Well, if you change your mind, let me know."\n\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

"Very funny, Robin of Locksley. I’m not special, or spectacular. No great beauty, as my mother was want to say, with my nose buried in a book all the time." Marian studies the surrounding forest and picks a direction, seemingly at random but with quiet certainty. "The Sheriff was my first true suitor, and a most unwelcome one at that. Besides, I see no reason why I can’t decide for myself who I marry, perhaps after getting to know them first. Becoming friends." She gives you a look and shakes her head, then resolutely changes the subject.\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

<<set $ch2crossing_mm_bridge = true>>\s\n"That's a great question. I don't know anything about Little John and what he values besides this toll and his troll blood.<<if not $ch2crossing_mm_sheep>> What would you call a fear of livestock? Bovinophobia?<<endif>>"\n\n<<display ch2crossing_magicchoices_top>>

<<if $much_present>>\s\n"What do you think, Marian?" Much the Miller's Son calls out. "The boys and I have a little bit of a bet. None of us here thought to be outlaws, and we was thinking about how life might've been different. So, if you could walk away from it all, do whatever you want in the whole wide world, what'd it be?"\n\n"Are you asking if I'd settle down?" Marian laughs. "Not with you, Much. There are no miller's babies in my future."\n\n"Not that I'd mind..." Much grins. "That wasn't what I meant..."\n\n"Never, I think," Marian says, quietly. "I have my sword and the wide open sky. If I have the chance to walk beyond the horizon and die beneath the stars, that's enough for me."\n\nThe men nod, echoing her sentiment. All except for Much. "Nothing wrong with miller's babies," he mutters. "I were a miller's baby, long time ago..."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_B>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $rosalind_present>>\s\n"If the Sheriff stopped hunting us," Rosalind speaks up for the first time in days. "What would you do, my lady? If you could do anything in the whole wide world, what would it be?"\n\n"Anything at all?" Marian smiles quietly, and twines her fingers together in her lap. "I'd marry for love, Rosalind. It's so often denied women of my station, who are forced to wed for politics or money. To marry for love... Everything else would be secondary. And you, Robin? What would your future be?"\n\n<<display ch2dinner_considering>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\nThere's an easy silence around the table.\n\n<<if $john_present>>\s\n"Tell me, Marian," John says after a time. "If you could be done being an outlaw. If you could walk away from this whole English mess, what would you do with yourself?"\n\n"Are you asking if I'd settle down?" Marian laughs. "There are so many wonders to this world, John. I'd be an explorer — discovering, cataloguing, and codifying." She sends a collection of tiny lights swirling over the table and shapes them into a sphere. "I'd travel east, to the Orient, or west, across the endless ocean, and I'd teach men not to be afraid of the dark."\n\nJohn chews on that. "It's not the dark I'm afraid of... It's what lives in it."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_B>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $john_present>>\s\n"I was thinking," Marian says after a time. "If I could walk away from this whole English mess... There are so many wonders to this world, Robin. I'd be an explorer — discovering, cataloguing, and codifying." She sends a collection of tiny lights swirling over the table and shapes them into a sphere. "I'd travel east, to the Orient, or west, across the endless ocean, and I'd teach men not to be afraid of the dark." She smiles. "I wouldn't be an outlaw, hiding in the woods.\n\n"And you, Robin?" she chides. "What would your future be?"\n\n<<display ch2dinner_considering>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s

"My maid, Rosalind, and her boyfriend, Much; I think he’s the miller’s son. They got me out of the castle and drew off the Sheriff’s men when it looked like I wasn’t going to make it." She studies her hands. "They were taken alive. I was able to scry that much before the wards around Nottingham Castle blocked my sight. If we ever find safety, if we’re able to make more of our flight than disappearing into the forest…"\n\n<<display ch1interlude_S>>

<<display ch2spirits_hellhounds>>\n\n<<display ch2spirits_justice>>

A dreadful baying rises over the surrounding hills. The Sheriff has released his hounds, and they are certain to run you down if you remain in the open.\n\n<<if $men gt 0>>\s\n<<set $men to 0>>\s\nYour followers scream, and scatter in all directions.\n\n<<endif>>\s\nThere’s only one chance to lose the hounds. Sherwood Forest.\n\n<<display forced_day_3>>

"Hold, villain!" The silhouette of Dame Elspeth steps from behind a tree, her ghostly form limned silver in the moonlight. "These people are under my protection. Flee, lest you would feel the wrath of a knight of the Round Table!"\n\n"We were hired to catch outlaws, not face down ghosts!" one of the huntsmen cries. "Catch your own bride, Sheriff!"\n\nThe huntsmen turn and run, their hounds following with their tails between their legs. The Sheriff fixes you with a glare and spits. "You won't always have a ghost to hide behind. Yah!" He gallops after his men.\n\nDame Elspeth bows to you and vanishes. "Little John shall usher you into the Deepwood." Her voice carries on the wind. "Thank you, and fare thee well."\n\n"That I will." Little John steps from the woods. "That was some sight... Now come on, I'll treat you to dinner."\n\n<<if $ch2followerdelay gt 0>>\s\nThe men you left at the defile rejoin you, bruised but not beaten.\n\n<<set $men += 5>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $renown += 200>>\s\n<<set $john_present = true>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 3000>>\s\n<<display crossing_departure>>

<<display ch2ruins_searching>>

The mushroom explodes in a cloud of spores. Bedivere yawns and paws at his face. He takes three staggering steps and slumps to the floor, unconscious.\n\n"Come on, Robin," Marian hurries you out of the cave. "Before he wakes up."\n\nYou make it back to the base of the waterfall without trouble.\n\n<<set $purple_nightcap-->>\s\n<<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "taken">>\s\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

<<if not $ch2johnquestions_yet_you_charge_a_toll>>\s\n[[“You're to keep people out, yet you charge a toll for passage?”|ch2johnquestions_yet_you_charge_a_toll]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2johnquestions_do_you_live_here_by>>\s\n[[“Do you live here, by the bridge?”|ch2johnquestions_do_you_live_here_by]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $dream and not $ch2johnquestions_you_dream_of_living_in>>\s\n[[“You dream of living in the Deepwood?”|ch2johnquestions_you_dream_of_living_in]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian eq "noble") and (not $ch2johnquestions_you_work_for_the_warden)>>\s\n[[“You work for the Warden, Will Scarlet? We've been looking for him.”|ch2johnquestions_you_work_for_the_warden]]\n<<elseif ($marian neq "noble") and (not $ch2johnquestions_whos_the_warden_of_sherwood)>>\s\n[[“Who's the Warden of Sherwood?”|ch2johnquestions_whos_the_warden_of_sherwood]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I've heard enough.”|ch2johnquestions_ive_heard_enough]]

"Sure thing, Robin. I'll be here in case anything happens."\n\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 100>>\s\n<<set $marian_action = "support">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

<<set $start_lodging = 0>>\s\n<<set $day++>>\s\n<<set $start_day to 0>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\nThe next day dawns cool and clear, though smoke from the smoldering ruins of your home still blackens the distant horizon. Pursuit will come, likely in the form of Baskervilles, the Sheriff’s special hounds bred to the size of a horse. \n\nBut for now, you have other concerns. You need <<if not $start_food>>food, <<endif>><<if not $start_weapons>>weapons, <<endif>>shelter.\n\n<<if $men gte 1>>\s\nVoices clamor nearby. <<display showing_people_saved>>\n\nOther refugees found you during the night. They've gathered what little they saved from their homes in the center of camp, including a fair amount of gold. The people you rescued look to you for direction.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $start_horse>>\s\nYour horse, Holiday, crops the grass nearby.\n\n<<endif>>\s\nThe horizon calls, cold and clear.\n\n<<display top_level_choices>>

<<if not $ch2spirits_who_are_you>>\s\n[[“Who are you?”|ch2spirits_who_are_you]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2spirits_whats_going_to_happen>>\s\n[[“What’s going to happen?”|ch2spirits_whats_going_to_happen]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Let the shepherdess go, ghost.”|ch2spirits_let_the_shepherdess_go_ghost]]\n[[I run from the knoll. This is a clash of forces beyond me.|ch2spirits_i_run_from_the_knoll]]

The Sheriff rolls aside at the last moment, but the ghost of the Black Knight remains transfixed on your blade. Your movements not your own, you flip the Black Knight’s visor — meet those selfsame blue eyes and blond hair with a masculine jaw, wisps of a beard.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_hellhounds>>\n\n<<display ch2spirits_lost_knight>>

<<if not $sheriff_alertness_info>>\n<<set $sheriff_alertness_info to true>>\n@@color:green;The Sheriff is busy socializing with the costumed nobles around the ballroom, and he wants to make sure he speaks to everyone. Whenever the @@@@color:red;Sheriff's Alertness@@@@color:green; reaches 100%, he notices your attendance and his curiosity rises. If he becomes curious enough, he will force his way through the ballroom to your side.@@\n<<endif>>

[[“I'm sorry.”|ch2dinner_im_sorry]]\n<<if $spring_bonnet gt 0>>\s\n[[“I can make a poultice to cover his wounds. Sir Bedivere will be right as rain come morning.”|ch2dinner_i_can_make_a_poultice]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“He attacked me. I was only defending myself.”|ch2dinner_he_attacked_me_i_was]]

<<set $ch2crossing_mn_talk to true>>\s\n"Certainly, Robin. Whenever you're ready."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_noblechoices_top>>

"Allison?" Little John looks alarmed. "Where is she?"\n\nYou describe how to find shepherdess, and Little John races off. "Don't cross yet!" He calls over his shoulder. "I'll be right back."\n\n"So?" Marian glances at the bridge. "Shall we?"\n\n[[“Now's our chance! Let's cross.”|ch2johnquestions_now's_our_chance_lets_cross]]\n[[“We'll wait for Little John to return.”|ch2johnquestions_we'll_wait_for_little_john]]

"Robin, get up." Marian pulls at your arm. "We need to get across the river before the Sheriff's men arrive."\n\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

<<if $ch2bearfriend>>\s\n[[I pet Bedivere.|ch2cave_i_pet_bedivere]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_mushrooms eq "">>\s\n[[I examine the mushrooms.|ch2cave_mushrooms]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_mushrooms eq "examined">>\s\n[[I consider picking some mushrooms.|ch2cave_picking]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "" and not $ch2marian_light>>\s\n[[I enter the cave.|ch2cave_cave_entrance]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "" and $ch2marian_light and $ch2torch>>\s\n[[I light my torch and enter the cave.|ch2cave_i_light_my_torch]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_bath>>\s\n[[I splash around under the waterfall.|ch2cave_i_splash_around_under_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I return to the base of the waterfall.|ch2cave_i_return_to_the_base]]

"Thinking you can best me at me own game? Good thing I have an extra quarterstaff for just such an occasion. Mind you, if you lose," Little John walks along the tree trunk to the middle of the river, "you get wet."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_duel>>

<<set $ch2_inventory = 0>>\s\n<<if $silver_cross>>\s\n<<set $ch2_inventory++>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $elspeth_horn>>\s\n<<set $ch2_inventory++>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $royal_seal>>\s\n<<set $ch2_inventory++>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_inventory gt 0>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_john_barter_2>>\n<<elseif ($ch2_inventory eq 0) and not $ch2quest>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_john_barter_2>>\n<<else>>\s\nYou pat down your pockets, and then grin — embarassed — as you realize you have nothing to trade.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>\n<<endif>>\s

"Get on, idiot boy, before I skewer you and undo all my hard work."\n\n<<set $man = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2spirits_but_im_a_man = true>>\s\n<<set $elsa_talk-->>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn_top>>

<<if not $ch2_tracks1>>\s\n[[I search for tracks|ch2ruins_i_search_for_tracks]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $much_present>>\s\n[[I command my Merry Men to search the fields.|ch2ruins_i_command_my_merry_men]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $wolf>>\s\n[[I ask Wolf to find the woman.|ch2ruins_i_ask_wolf_to_find]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $crusader>>\s\n[[I leap on a goat and chase the woman's voice.|ch2ruins_i_leap_on_a_goat]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_tracks2>>\s\n[[“Marian, do you hear that?”|ch2_tracks2]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_tracks1>>\s\n[[I try to discern the patter of the woman's voice as it wafts over the hill.|ch2ruins_i_try_to_discern_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[It's getting late. I abandon the search for now.|ch2ruins_it's_getting_late_i_abandon]]

postrender.quotes = function(passage, content, task) {\n\tfunction processTextNodes(node) {\n\t\tif (node.nodeType == 3) { // text node\n\t\t\tnode.nodeValue = node.nodeValue\n\t\t\t\t.replace(/\sb'/g, '\su2019')\n\t\t\t\t.replace(/'\sb/g, '\su2018')\n\t\t\t\t.replace(/"(\ss|$)/g, '\su201D$1')\n\t\t\t\t.replace(/(\ss|^)"/g, '$1\su201C');\n\t\t} else {\n\t\t\tfor (var i in node.childNodes) {\n\t\t\t\tprocessTextNodes(node.childNodes[i]);\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t}\n\t}\n\tprocessTextNodes(passage);\n}\nconfig.disableHistoryTracking = true;\nconfig.disableHistoryControls = true;

<<if $ch2bow and ($ch2horn and ($elspeth_sword eq "elspeth")) and not $ch2click>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt_coffin_unlocked>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt_alcove1>>\n<<endif>>\s

You feel a vast weight press down upon you, and then release. The forest has heard your oath.\n\n"Good." Little John hefts his quarterstaff. "I'll be coming with you, to make sure you succeed."\n\n<<set $john_present = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2_tavern_oath = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing>>

With the hounds gone, you have a chance look around. This is deeper in the forest than you’ve ever been. But someone else was here first, and not so long ago.\n\n[[Here, a scrap of cloth from a noblewoman’s veil. The trail leads that way.|ch1start_noble]]\n[[There are tracks in the forest, what looks like a dozen men. I follow them.|ch1start_outlaw]]\n[[Someone came this way and dropped… A book? Their path leads through the forest.|ch1start_magic]]

<<if $start_weapons>>\s\n[[“No reason to die alone.” I use my bow as a crutch and draw my sword.|ch1start_no_reason_to_die_alone]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[The hollow empties onto a cliff and a rushing river below. I drag myself over the edge.|ch1start_the_hollow_empties_onto_a]]\n[[“My ankle’s sprained, or broken!” I draw a dagger.|ch1start_my_ankles_sprained_or_broken]]

You hear a click from the coffin.\n<<set $ch2coffin_open = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2click = true>>\s\n\n[[I examine the coffin|ch2crypt_i_examine_the_coffin]]\n[[I continue perusing the alcoves.|ch2crypt_i_continue_perusing_the_alcoves]]

<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_naked>>

<<set $ch2_marian_advice = true>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\n"I've heard of staff fighters who can deflect arrows, and he's a giant of a man…" Marian rubs her chin. "It'll be nearly impossible to get inside his reach. His price is exorbitant, but maybe we can barter for passage? Or convince him to join us against the Sheriff?"\n\n<<display ch2crossing_outlawchoices_top>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\n"This far into the forest, his a price is unreasonable. But the day is warm and the river quiet. Perhaps we can convince him of the urgency of our passage, or lull him to sleep and sneak across." Marian sighs. "If only I had my lute..."\n\n<<if $ch2_john_diplomacy>>\s\n<<set $marian_advice++>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_noblechoices_top>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\n"Be careful Robin, I bet this Little John has some troll in him. So long as he's near his chosen bridge, I have no ready spells that will affect him. Furthermore, he draws strength and speed from the bridge's proximity. If we can draw him away from the bridge, we might have a fighting chance." She thinks for a moment. "There are stories of trolls being defeated by livestock, though I forget the details."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_magicchoices_top>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch1_question = 0>>\s\nThat night, Marian joins you around the campfire with a small plate of berries and roast mushrooms. <<if $sprained_ankle>>One of the maids, Rosalind, is a capable healer, and your injured ankle is now comfortably snug in a makeshift splint. Packed with a poultice of mushrooms and moss you've never heard of, she swears it'll be better by morning.\n\n"Rosalind's been with me since I was a child," Marian checks your dressings. "She has served me well, yet I wonder if she isn't meant for greater things." She pauses, spoons you some berries.<<endif>> "We've been wandering these woods for days without success. I'll admit, I'd given up hope of meeting anyone. That we met you is the first bit of luck I've had in some time."\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

<<set $chapter = "2">>\s\n<<set $day += 3>>\s\nSherwood Forest. <<print $ch2_clock>>\n\nThe Sheriff's men have been on your trail for over two days. They number at least a dozen — not including hounds and horses; armor; and weapons of cold, hard steel.\n\nAhead stands the mist-shrouded Deepwood, where four-hundred foot tall trees block the light of day and giants grind the bones of Englishmen to make their bread. For fear of their lives, the Sheriff's men will not venture there.\n\nBetween you and this dubious safety lies a cold, fast river, a downed tree that serves as a bridge, and a bear of a man who calls himself //Little John//.\n\n[[“I say, man, let us pass!”|ch2start_response]]\n[[I let Marian do the talking.|ch2start_i_let_marian_do_the]]\n\n<<display window_of_escape_explanation>>

<<set $start_magic++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\n"My story is geas, my words compel action." The Black Knight pauses. "Will you, mere steps from the start of your story, undertake my burden?"\n\n[[“I will.”|I_will_black_knight]]\n[[“I will not.”|I_will_not_black_knight]]

You find a small collection of buildings connected by simple walkways. It's comfortable, hidden, and clearly only a fraction of what the great tree — and those around it — can support. For all the ingenuity of construction, it doesn't look like it's been inhabited for some time.\n\nYou set out bread, cheese, and dried meat on a low table.\n\n<<display ch2dinner_A>>

<<if ($ch2cross or $john_not_crossing_with_robin) and (($ch2_shepherdess eq "unknown") or ($ch2_shepherdess eq "late"))>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_john_question2>>\s\n<<display ch2travel_worried_john>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<elseif ($ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued") and not $ch2cross>>\s\n<<display ch2_relaxed_john>>\n<<elseif ($ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued") and $ch2cross>>\s\n<<display ch2_ready_john>>\n<<else>>\s\nLittle John leans against the fallen tree trunk. He watches your approach from beneath lowered eyebrows.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>\n<<endif>>\s

"You want to turn the tables on the hounds? I like it, but..." Marian pauses. "They're ranging far, and fast. We’ll be the better part of the day just getting back here, much less forging deeper into Sherwood. If Guy is here, the Sheriff and his huntsmen are likely not far behind."\n\n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\nShe steps close. "Also, the men are terrified of those hounds. We're better off sending them away."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\nShe steps close. "Also, the ladies-in-waiting are terrified of those hounds. We're better off sending them away."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I’m going to stop the hounds. You can come, or not, as you will.”|ch1_morning_stophounds]]\n[[“Good point. Let’s strike instead at Sir Guy.”|ch1_guy]]\n[[“With enough of a head start, we can lose the trackers in the forest. Let’s get out of here.”|ch1_morning_run]]

<<display ch2johnquestions_leave3>>

She chuckles. "Glad to hear not everyone is taken in by Much's tales. That man, I swear..."\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

"Fair enough," Little John grins.\n\n<<set $ch2_john_question1 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

<<if not $tactics_tooltip>>\n<<set $tactics_tooltip = true>>\n@@color:green;There's been a change to the State of Sherwood Forest. The State of Sherwood is measured by your Forest Defense, your Political Influence, your Magical Discoveries, and your Legendary Momentum. These factors, alone or in combination, can help you hold the forest and ultimately defeat the Sheriff. There is also Tactical Experience, which increases your men's effectiveness at raiding the Sheriff's caravans, and the Sheriff's Patrol Strength, which decreases it.@@\n<<endif>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 25>>\s\n<<set $start_lockpick to true>>\s\nYou get the door open and slip silently into the room.\n\n<<display In_the_study>>

"Fair enough," Marian shrugs and drops the whistle back in the bag. "Let's get out of here."\n\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 84>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "8 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

"There, Robin. Look!"\n\nStruggling up the hollow, harried by a pack of shadowy mastiffs, is the unicorn.\n\n"Elsa?" Elspeth’s hands — and yours — fly to your mouth. "Dear God, I never thought to see her again. She… She’s been hurt. She’s not going to make it."\n\n[[“Go, Wolf. Help her.”|ch2spirits_go_wolf_help_her]]\n[[“Let’s go. We are going to save her!”|ch2spirits_lets_go_we_are_going]]

<<if $start_weapons eq true>>\s\n[[I draw my sword. “You won't take me alive.”|ch1marian_i_draw_my_sword_you]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[I spread my hands. “Alright, you got me. I surrender.”|ch1marian_joke]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I'm starving. I've been forced from my home, and the king is a thousand miles away. Why should he care if I take a deer or two for my own?”|ch1marian_im_starving_ive_been_forced]]\n[[I study the men.|ch1marian_i_study_the_men]]

Marian laughs. "Similar business model, better dressed? Robin, you're incorrigible. I propose a toast to piracy, outlaws, and lawlessness across the land. May our labors always taste so sweet."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_dinner>>

<<display Into_the_woods>>

<<set $start_faith++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 25>>\s\nYour knee rings hollow against the flagstone of the church, as if there were nothing underneath. You lift the stone, revealing a ladder that descends into the darkness.\n\nYou remember now a long-ago conversation between Timothy and your old tutor, Friar Tuck. "I’m not saying you ever have to use it," Tuck growled. "But it’s there, if the family ever needs to escape..."\n\n[[I escape down the passage before the Sheriff’s men arrive.|There’s_a_heavy_thumping_running]]\n[[I call for attention. “Get the women and children out. We’ll hold off the Sheriff soldiers for as long as possible.”|I_call_for_attention]]\n[[I would rather die under the open skies than be trapped below ground. I escape out the back.|I_escape_out_the_back_outside]]

Your arrow slices across the pike's tail. Wounded and startled, it swims away.\n\nMarian returns moments later with the sword between her talons. She places it on the ground and returns to her womanly form in a flash of calico.\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_sword>>

"Ah, a purely mercantile arrangement. Tell you what. Keep me fat and happy and I’ll stand by your side and look real menacing." Wolf pauses and paws at his ear. "Well, as menacing as an overweight and overly content ball of //Canis lupus// can be. That’s Latin for wolf, by the way." He veers off your path and vanishes into the forest. "You can thank me later. Even if this conversation is all in your head."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_end_wolf>>

<<set $tax_raid = 15>>\n<<set $display_tax_raid = 15>>\n<<set $hard_difficulty = true>>\n<<display prologue_start>>

The curious man is left with nothing but his clothing and a few of his papers. Disconsolate, he gathers his affairs and disappears down the road.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

There’s a scream from down the hall and the sound of breaking glass. You smell smoke.\n\n"Robin?" The maids clutch at each other. "What do we do?"\n\n[[“Get out through the kitchen. I need to look for other survivors.”|I_leave_the_study_maids]]\n[[“Come with me. We’re leaving.”|Come_with_me_We’re_leaving]]\n[[“Meet cook at the kitchen. There are documents here that cannot be lost to foe or fire.”|I_need_to_search_the_room_maids]]

<<if not $hard_difficulty and not $imp_difficulty>>\s\n"Now, if I were to hazard a guess — and I am an excellent judge of character — I would say you are <<print $start_identity>>"\n\n[[“You are good. That’s quite correct.” I smile. “You can call me Robin.”|You_are_good]]\n[[“That’s a good guess, but not quite right.”|That’s_a_good_guess]]\n<<else>>\s\n"And you are <<print $start_identity>>." She smiles at your surprise. <<display You_are_good>>\n<<endif>>\s

Sir Bedivere licks it up. and continues on to lick your arm, and then your face.\n\nLittle John laughs. "Come here, Bedivere. No eating our guests." He winks at you. "He hasn't eaten a guest in over 5 years. Don't encourage him."\n\n<<set $ch2bearfriend = true>>\s\n<<set $john_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch2dinner_A>>

<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\n<<if $ch2time lte 0>>\s\n<<display ch2sheriff>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_daylight gt 0)>>\s\nThe steep walls of the valley close around you. Trees blot out the sun, water trickles down long stretches of hanging moss, and your footsteps leave deep, muddy tracks in the ground. You enter the penumbral defile, a twisting passage 10 feet wide and 100 feet long.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_daylight lte 0)>>\s\nThe steep walls of the valley close around you. Trees blot out the moon, water trickles down long stretches of hanging moss, and your footsteps leave deep, muddy tracks in the ground. You enter the dark of the defile, a twisting passage 10 feet wide and 100 feet long.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2defile_visit>>\s\nThe Sheriff's men must pass through here to catch you. Once they do, the open forest and your backs to the river will spell a short hunt.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2defile_visit>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\n"Marian, Robin." One of your men jogs out of the defile and drops to one knee. "It's as you suspected. The Sheriff's men approach slow and sure. Their forces have fanned out to cut off escape into the outer reaches of Sherwood, and they'll reach the defile by nightfall."\n\n<<elseif $marian eq "noble">>\s\nA falcon shrieks as it dives out of the sky, stooping to land on Marian's outstretched arm. "Why hello, Sir Percival." She feeds the falcon a bit of meat and unclips the message tube from around his leg.\n\nMarian's eyebrows draw together over the message. "My huntsman, Matthew, has confirmed our suspicions. The Sheriff's men approach slow and sure. Their forces have fanned out to cut off escape into the outer reaches of Sherwood, and they will reach the defile by nightfall." She pens a quick response. "Away, Sir Percival! Tell your master we hope to see him in the Deepwood."\n\n<<elseif $marian eq "magic">>\s\nMarian drops to her knees at the edge of the defile and trails a shower of white light across a small puddle. The sound of men and horses echoes up from the puddle. "The Sheriff's men approach slow and sure." She twists her hands over the puddle, and you hear the baying of hounds. "Their forces have fanned out to cut off escape into the outer reaches of Sherwood, and they'll reach the defile by nightfall."\n\nShe breaks the still water with her fist and stands, sweat pouring down her brow. "Any ideas?"\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $ch2defile_visit = true>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2defile>>\s\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $chapter = "1 morning">>\s\n<<set $day++>>\s\nYou wake to a flurry of activity. Marian’s bustling about the camp, packing up her few possessions and stamping out the fire. \n\n"I was up early, couldn’t sleep," she says, by way of explanation. "Went for a walk, and who did I spot but Guy of Gisborne." She crouches down to look you in the eye. "The Sheriff’s cousin and Master of the Hounds himself, camped right over that ridge."\n\nThe baying of hounds echoes through the forest. "The Baskervilles are on the move, but not towards us. They are hunting something else." <<if not $start_weapons>>She hands you a sword and bow. <<if $marian eq "outlaw">>"You need weapons. Besides, better you have these before Much kills himself."<<elseif $marian eq "noble">>"You look capable. Moreso than Matilda, at least."<<elseif $marian eq "magic">>"I found these hidden in the hollow of a tree nearby. They're old, but in good shape."<<endif>><<endif>>\n\n[[“Now’s our chance to strike against Guy.”|ch1_guy]]\n[[“Then we can hunt the hounds in turn. Stop them before they catch their quarry.”|ch1_morning_wolfunicorn]]\n[[“Guy is camped and hounds are occupied? Let’s make good our escape.”|ch1_morning_run]]

"Sorry, Robin. Hear what? If you're talking about goats and their bells, then yes, I do. I don't hear anything else unusual, though."\n\n<<set $ch2_tracks2 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_lost>>

Guy slowly lowers the whistle.\n\n<<display ch1_guy_parley>>

<<set $I_lay_several_false_trails_to_confuse_pursuit = true>>\s\nDone. If anyone comes across your trail, they'll waste precious time untangling the mix of marks and leads you laid down.\n\n<<set $renown -= 50>>\s\n<<set $ch2time += 5>>\s\n<<display ch1_camp_options>>

<<if not $ch2crossing_mm_bridge>>\s\n[[“How do we draw him away from his bridge?”|ch2crossing_mm_bridge]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2crossing_mm_sheep and $ch2goats eq "grazing">>\s\n[[“Livestock? I don't see any sheep or cattle around here.”|ch2crossing_mm_sheep]]\n<<elseif not $ch2crossing_mm_sheep and $ch2goats eq "petted">>\s\n[[“What about those goats by the ruins? Could they be the troll vulnerability you're talking about?”|ch2_crossing_mm_goats]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Alright, enough planning.”|ch2crossing_m_done]]\n[[“I'm not sure I like any of those ideas.”|ch2crossing_m_dislike]]

<<set $ch2johnquestions_yet_you_charge_a_toll = true>>\s\nLittle John grins. "If you can pay, you're obviously not common, are you?"\n\n<<set $personal++>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_personal_questions>>

<<display ch2travel_defile>>

Elspeth raises her arms, exultant, as a pair of whip-thin hounds, black as a pit, slip out of blood and smoke. "There is no redemption, Robin," the former knight whispers. "Only death and the rewards of a life ill-lived."\n\nThe hounds rush past you, their fiery jaws close over her arms. Elspeth's calm demeanor vanishes and she screams. There's the sound of cracking bones, and the screaming stops.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_justice>>

<<set $start_faith++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1500>>\s\n<<display I_leave_the_study>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

Your followers gather around you.\n\n[[“The Sheriff is after me, and I must go on alone. Split up among the nearby farmsteads. Ask for shelter, offer to work. Find somewhere to live until the danger is past.”|Sheriff_is_after_me]]\n<<if $start_lodging lt 1>>\s\n[[“We must find a new home, protection from the Sheriff’s men.”|protection_from_the_Sheriff’s_men]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I’m not sure what I wanted to say. Let me think about this for a minute.”|I’m_not_sure_what_I_wanted]]

<<if not $start_woodbridge>>\s\n[[“Lord Woodbridge is nearby. Wait here while I ask for his assistance.”|Woodbridge_alone]]\n[[“Lord Woodbridge is an ally. We go to ask for his help.”|We_must_find_a_new_home]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($start_horse) and (not $start_robert)>>\s\n[[“Earl Robert Fitzhugh has always been a friend of the Locksleys. I'll ride to him and ask his assistance.”|Robert_Fitzhugh]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $sherwood_lodging>>\s\n[[“The Sheriff's men will not enter Sherwood Forest.”|The_Sheriff's_men_will_not_enter_Sherwood]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Good point. Let me think about this...”|I_reconsider_my_options_prologue2]]

<<display ch2crypt_coffin>>

One of the men nods. <<if $start_female>>"She speaks sense, she does."<<else>>"He speaks sense, he does."<<endif>>\n\n<<display ch1marian_joke>>

<<set $marian_advice++>>\s\n<<if $marian_advice eq 3>>\s\nLittle John watches you, patient.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_magicchoices>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if $wolf>>\s\nWolf presents himself before Little John, who steps aside. "Pass, Sir Wolf." Wolf proceeds across the river and back.\n\n"Hey, what about us?" Marian protests. "We’re with him."\n\nJohn shakes his head. "He has Deepwoods residency. Yourselves are not so fortunate."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“We're crossing, one way or another.”|ch2start_were_crossing_one_way_or]]\n[[“Little John and this log isn't worth our time. Let's look elsewhere for a crossing.”|ch2start_little_john_and_this_log]]

<<set $ch2crossing_mm_sheep to true>>\s\n"Goats!" Marian brings her palm to you forehead. "Of course! They're exactly what we need."\n\n[[“Let's go get them right now.”|ch2travel_ruins]]\n[[“Good to know. We can collect the goats later.”|ch2crossing_top]]

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $men = 0>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 150>>\s\n<<display There’s_a_heavy_thumping>>\n\n<<if not $men_explanation>>\s\n<<display men_explanation>>\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<if not $anna_talks_of_options>>\s\n"But where can we go?" Anna asks. "The Sheriff's men will not leave us be should they find us."\n\n<<set $anna_talks_of_options to true>>\s\n<<else>>\s\nYour people gather close, hoping for good news.\n\n"What will become of us, Robin?" Anna asks.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display lodging_options_for_followers>>

You and Marian race away through the forest. A man's scream, full of anger and grief, trails after you through the trees.\n\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 60>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "11 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

Bedivere lands on all fours and stalks around the room.\n\n<<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "taken">>\n<<display ch2cave_looters>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_hide>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if ($ch2_mushrooms eq "picked") and ($ch2_john_treasure neq "")>>\s\nYou've scoured the area around the cave; you wander back to the base of the waterfall.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_options>>\n<<endif>>\s

"Aye, then. Cross. At your leisure and as often as you like."\n\n<<set $john_not_crossing_with_robin = true>>\s\n<<set $renown -= $john_argument/2>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing>>

You and Marian lapse into an easy silence as you both focus on the delicious venison. Finally, she tosses the remains of her meal into the fire. "Is there anything else you'd like to know?"\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

"I… I haven’t prayed since…"\n\nYou drop your knees and close your eyes. "Hail Mary, full of grace…"\n\nAfter a moment, Elspeth’s voice joins you, cracked and hoase. Together, you finish your brief prayer. You cannot explain precisely how, but you feel buoyed, and bounce easily to your feet, ready for what comes.\n\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 200>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

"You're barely <<if $start_female>>Princess<<else>>Prince<<endif>> of Sherwood, at this rate." She looks as if she's about to give you a further piece of her mind when your stomach lets out an enormous growl. Marian laughs, quite a lot. "Well, young <<if $start_female>>Princess<<else>>Prince<<endif>>, unless you intend to conquer England on an empty stomach, I suggest we head over to my campsite for some dinner.\n\n<<display ch1marian_gender>>

<<set $ch2_mushrooms = "examined">>\s\nTwo species of mushrooms are tightly interspersed near the cave mouth. One is slender, conical, and sports a dark, bruise-colored cap. The other is so pale it's almost translucent, and has a wide, disk-shaped cap.\n\n<<if $rosalind_present>>\s\n"Those pale mushrooms are spring bonnets," Rosalind says. "They're extremely delicate, but if dried or harvested intact they have powerful healing properties. The conical ones are purple nightcap. When dried and crushed into food, they're a soporific. They'll also release a cloud of spores if disturbed that'll knock you out just the same."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $much_present>>\s\n"That there conical mushroom is purple nightcap," Much jaws. "Dry it, crush it, and eat it and you'll be dreamin' sweet dreams in seconds. The spores'll do the same, if you knock 'em about. Can't say I know about the white ones, though."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\nMarian points to the white mushrooms. "Those are spring bonnets. They're extremely delicate, but if harvested intact they have powerful healing properties when dried. I don't know anything about the purple ones, but it's usually wise to avoid unknown fungus."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_options>>

"You’re so sure of yourself, Robin. I wish I shared that certainty sometimes." She stares away into a place only she can see, and changes the course of your march slightly. The rest of the day passes in silence.\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

//This concludes the demo of Nocked! Thank you for playing. There are many ways past Little John into the Deepwood. Feel free to restart the game and try a different path.//\n\n//This back garden submission was just a taste of Nocked! True Tales of Robin Hood, to be released on iOS in the Summer 2016. The final game is over 450,000 words long, and features over 30 pieces of hand-drawn art by Amanda Spaid. Find out more at [[Nocked! True Tales of Robin Hood|http://www.nockedthegame.com]].//\n\n<b>About the Author and Game Designer:</b>\nAndrew G. Schneider always wanted to be a wizard when he grew up; now he makes magic with words. When not writing, he hunts the wild dust bunny and makes a mean pot of French onion soup. He lives in Washington, D.C., believes in unicorns, and is married to a wonderful woman who believes in him. He is the writer and designer of the upcoming text adventure game, [[Nocked! True Tales of Robin Hood|http://www.nockedthegame.com]], and is the author of the sand-slinging, swashbuckling adventure novel, [[Nothing Left to Wish For|http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QU5PO9G]], and the Tales from a Coffee Shop Princess; [[Waiting for My Happily Ever After|http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017WJZZKG]] and [[Undercaffeinated and Overexposed|http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QU6ITFQ]]. Find him on Facebook or check out his [[website|http://nockedthegame.com]].\n\n<b>About the Artist:</b>\nAmanda Spaid (Artist) Amanda is a fine artist and freelance Illustrator in the DC Metro area. Her subjects and mediums are wide, ranging from traditional oil, acrylic and colored pencil portraits of people and animals, to digital paintings with Sci-fi/Fantasy themes. She's a Maryland native, has a degree in Fine Arts from the School of Art and Design at Montgomery College in Silver Spring and a Bachelor's in Illustration from Columbus College of Art and Design in Ohio. Check out her [[other work at her website|http://www.amandaspaid.com]].\n\n[img[weather3.jpg]]

"No!" Guy says. "Please! Allow me to take my hounds and leave."\n\n[[“Alright. Get out of here.”|ch1_morning_killguy_changemind]]\n[[“Sorry, Guy.”|ch1_morning_killguy_confirmed]]

<<set $start_diplomacy++>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $renown -= 200>>\s\n"He’s right," one bandit looks nervous. "The King could be back at any moment. After all, this is his emi-whats-it."\n\nThe other bandit slowly places his weapons at his feet. "We don’t want to face them Crusaders, okay? Here are the weapons, and we’ll just be on our way."\n\nThe two bandits back away to the edge of the forest, then turn and run.\n\nThe merchant approaches. <<display thanks_of_devon>>

"I yield. I yield indeed. You may cross as you will. And I will follow you, for I see I have a lot to learn."\n\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<set $john_present = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_leave>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n"Bah," one of the bandits spits, rifling the man’s pack. "There’s nothing here but paper drawings."\n\n"As I said, my friends," the merchant inclines his head. "I have nothing."\n\n"We’ll take your donkey!" The other bandits snarls. "He’ll be good with dinner."\n\n<<if $start_food>>\s\n[[“Actually,” I step out. “I’ll trade you some food, hid nearby, that’ll make a much better meal than that old nag.”|Actually_I_step_out]]\n[[I let the scene play out and leave the area.|I_let_the_scene_play_out_and_leave_the_area]]\n<<else>>\s\n<<display I_let_the_scene_play_out_and_leave_the_area>>\n<<endif>>\s

You can tell Little John's tense and worried. You notice him glance anxiously upriver towards the ruins. "Listen," he says. "There's a shepherdess who often grazes her flocks up by the ruins. We were supposed to meet for breakfast, but she's several hours late and I can't leave my post. If you find her, find out how she's doing, I'd be grateful."\n<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "lost">>\s\n<<set $ch2_john_question2 = true>>\s\n\n[[“I'll keep an eye out.”|ch2travel_ill_keep_an_eye_out]]\n[[“If there's time, but we really need to cross.”|ch2travel_if_there's_time_but_we]]

<<if ($gold gte 1000)>> \s\n[[“I’ll pay for it.”|Trade_for_weapons][$gold -=1000]] (1000 gold)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;"I’ll pay for it." (1000 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $start_horse>>\s\n[[“I’ll trade you my horse for weapons.”|I’ll_trade_you_my_horse_for_weapons][$start_horse to false]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $renown gte 250>>\s\n[[“Please. Be charitable. Last night, the Sheriff burned our home.”|Trade_for_weapons][$renown -= 250]] (250 renown)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;“Please. Be charitable. Last night, the Sheriff burned our home." (250 renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I cannot afford what you ask. Thank you for your time.”|I_cannot_afford_what_you_ask][$weapons_found to true]]\n\n<<display purchase_explanation>>

<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<set $start_magic++>>\s\nA figure, massive black armor, coalesces from the shadow of a barrow mound.\n\n"I see you, mortal," a voice echoes, hollow, from the empty helmet. "Face me, if you would be legend."\n\nThis is the Black Knight, legendary villain of King Arthur’s time.\n\n[[“Have at thee, villain!”|Have_at_thee]]\n[[“I have no quarrel with you, ghost. Begone.”|I_have_no_quarrel]]\n[[“You’re not buried here. Why do you haunt these tombs, spirit?”|You’re_not_buried_here]]

"So it boils down to money. With money, we become famous or powerful." She lapses into silence and fingers a small silver pendant around her neck. "I won't give up what I have. We'll need to find wealth some other way."\n\n<<set $friends = true>>\s\n<<set $money = true>>\s\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>

<<set $start_diplomacy++>>\s\n<<set $start_men = $men>>\s\n<<set $family_free = true>>\s\n<<set $men to 0>>\s\n<<set $renown -= 100>>\s\nNo one is happy about this. <<display leaving>>

<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\n<<if $ch2time lte 0>>\s\n<<display ch2sheriff>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<if $ch2_daylight gt 0>>\s\nStranded beams of sunlight gilt the broad, clear pool at the base of the falls. A narrow trail of wet rocks leads behind the cascade to a cave, its black mouth glowering from behind the watery curtain. Across the river, unscaleable cliffs create a natural barrier to the mysterious Deepwood.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_daylight lte 0>>\s\nBeams of moonlight dance across the broad, clear pool at the base of the falls. A narrow trail of wet rocks leads behind the cascade to a cave, its black mouth glowering from behind the watery curtain. Across the river, unscaleable cliffs create a natural barrier to the mysterious Deepwood.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall>>\n<<endif>>\s

He noses at your pack and tries to drag it off your back with his teeth.\n\n"I...don't think he's happy that we took some of the treasure," Marian says, shaking.\n\n[[I attack!|ch2cave_battle]]\n[[He's out of the doorway. I bolt for the door!|ch2cave_he's_out_of_the_doorway]]\n[[I lure Bedivere around the bed and get him tangled in the bedsheets.|ch2cave_i_lure_bedivere_around_the]]\n[[I empty the money and jewels from my pack.|ch2cave_i_empty_the_money_and]]

Crossbow bolts rain around you as the crossing appears through the trees. "Go, go!" Little John ushers you over the river.\n\nThe lead huntsman pulls up short of the bridge. His horse rears in the moonlight. "Marian!" You recognize the Sheriff's voice, remember his hair black as coal and eyes burning with malice. "The Deepwood will not shelter you forever. I will find you!"\n\n"Not today." Little John grunts and rolls the bridge — a fallen tree trunk over a hundred feet long and six feet wide — into the river. "It wouldn't do to have him get any ideas. Besides, there are other crossings; less convenient, but there it is. Now come on, let's to dinner."\n\n<<set $ch2_tree = false>>\s\n<<if $ch2followerdelay gt 0>>\s\nUnfortunately, the men you left at the defile were unable to rejoin you, and are presumed dead or captured.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<display crossing_departure>>

"Take a look yourself." Wolf whines and noses a spot near the entrance.\n\nYou notice a large paw print in the damp earth. A bear has been here recently.\n\n<<display ch2cave_into_cave>>

The coffin lid slides smoothly aside. The interior is empty, except for a battle standard of a griffon rampant. The cloth is remarkably well-preserved; the griffon is embroidered in gold against a field of green.\n\n"I think we're meant to have this," Marian takes the banner of Dame Elspeth under her arm and closes the coffin once more.\n\nBehind you, the alcoves pivot on hidden hinges. The three relics are now sealed away behind walls of stone.\n\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n<<set $ch2complete_alcoves = true>>\s\n<<set $grace += $forest_perk>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 500>>\s\n<<set $ch2bow = false>>\s\n<<set $elspeth_bow = true>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\nA sword appears in your hand — spun starlight singing out against the Black Knight’s gray blade. Back and forth, over and around to the shadowed barrows and solitary runestones, you battle. You catch the knight’s blade — twist and throw your weight, just as Friar Tuck taught.\n\n"Enough!" The Black Knight bows his head. "I am defeated. You are rewarded." He snickers, and vanishes in a cloud of squawking ravens. "Enjoy your fame, while it lasts."\n\nThe sword remains, slim and powerful, a feather in your grasp. And at your feet is a golden bow, your reward for defeating the knight.\n\nYou pass through the graveyard and into the dark. <<display Fire_end>>

<<display ch2travel>>

You and Marian shovel treasure into your packs. "There," Marian grunts. "Any more and I won't be able to carry it out."\n\n<<set $ch2_john_treasure = "taken">>\s\n<<display ch2cave_bear>>

Marian takes a few steps and pauses at the edge of the firelight. "I'm glad we ran into each other. You're so much more capable in these woods than us. Suffice it to say, I've informed Matilda and Rosalind that they are to obey you without hesitation while traveling the forest. I trust you to keep us safe."\n\n[[“I'll do my best.”|ch1_nobledinner_sleep_dobest]]\n[[I say nothing, and consider the responsibility Marian's placed on my shoulders.|ch1_nobledinner_sleep_silent]]

The ghost steps up to you, into you, and her voice is suddenly in your head, her presence stretched through every muscle. "You are a warrior. We can move as one, if you give me leave." There is an oncoming darkness swallowing the last of the sunset. "Time is short, are you ready to face the Black Knight?"\n\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

The crypt goes quiet for a moment, as if the wind blowing across the hill was given pause.\n\nWith your old bow in hand, your archery won't be nearly as impressive.\n\n<<set $ch2bow = true>>\s\n<<set $elspeth_bow = false>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

Your hand closes on flesh and blood! Elspeth gasps and falls to her knees. "What have you done?"\n\n"She is alive," the Black Knight raises his sword. Twin pairs of glowing eyes appear at his back, the impression of fangs. "So that she might die at my hand."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_flesh_and_blood>>

You consider again the cold, hard fact that the Sheriff’s men and beasts will soon be after you. You need a sword and a bow to defend yourself.\n\n<<if not $weapons_found>>\s\n[[There’s a friendly smithy nearby. I can bargain, or possibly beg for weapons.|There’s_a_friendly_smithy]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $bandits_found>>\s\n[[Sherwood Forest is rife with bandits. If I’m careful, I can ambush one of them and take their weapons.|Ambush_bandits]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I reconsider my choices.|I_reconsider_my_options_prologue2]]

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n<<set $start_cook to true>>\s\n<<set $start_children to true>>\s\nYou stumble, through smoke and fire, back to the kitchen.\n\n"Robin," Anna helps you to your feet. "We were about to give you up for dead. Come, we have supplies and the others are already away into the night."\n\nYour breathing comes easier as you stagger away from the conflagration. You meet Cook, the stable hands, and the children at the edge of the fields. <<display Fire_end>>

"I can draw some wards." Marian sets a spark dancing over and around her fingers. "Though it'll take some of our money. Gold conducts magic, you see, and in a pinch it will serve as a decent focus for my spells."\n\n<<if $gold gte 500>>\s\n[[“Do it.”|ch2defile_magical_traps]] (500 gold)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;"Do it."(500 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“We need our money for other things.”|ch2magic_consider]]

"Oh, I didn’t…" Rosalind jumps, startled. "I didn’t think you could… Sometimes I talk to myself when I’m nervous… Or, I don’t know. This isn’t helping, is it?" She blushes and keeps walking. "Hey, isn’t that a spring bonnet?" She bends down andand comes up with a patch of white mushrooms. "Spring bonnets. I haven’t seen these in years…"\n\nShe begins describing the plants you come across, only occasionally overcome with thought, as if weighing the course of a chosen future.\n\n<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

"Well, come tomorrow I won't need to worry about that," Marian mutters to herself. \n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

You separate Guy's head from his shoulders with his own sword. He'll never bother you again. The hounds sniff at his body and howl. They appear to have lost all interest in you.\n\n"Guy was the Sheriff's cousin," Marian counsels. "He'll have dozens of men scouring the forest once Guy's absence is noted." She spits on the body and strides away into the forest.\n\n<<set $guy = "dead">>\s\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 10000>>\s\n<<set $renown += 200>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 52>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "Noon.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

<<set $ch1_question = 0>>\s\nThat night, Marian joins you around the campfire, a hunk of roast venison in her hand. <<if $sprained_ankle>>It turns out Much the Miller's Son also happens to be a healer's son on his mother's side, and your injured ankle is now comfortably snug in a makeshift splint. //Right as rain by morning, that's my bet,// Much said. One of the other men immediately offered a counter-bet, and the two were off and running.\n\n"He's a good man," Marian checks your dressings. "Poor judgement, but a good man." She pauses, cuts you a slice of meat.<<endif>> "What we do here, Robin, what we hope to accomplish, it's nothing less than freedom from the Sheriff of Nottingham and his master, Prince John. Unfortunately, we're barely surviving, much less thriving."\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

<<set $ch1_question++>>\s\n<<if $ch1_question eq 4>>\s\n<<display ch1_nobledinnernoquestions>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_firstquestion>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2crossing_mn_fungus to true>>\s\n"The purple nightcap, of course." Marian snaps her fingers. "It grows in cool, damp places. The riverbank is far too open here, but we might find it somewhere nearby. Rosalind and Matilda will be ready with food, just in case."\n\n<<set $ch2dinner = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_noblechoices_top>>

The Deepwood looms across the river, while the Sheriff's men draw ever closer.\n\n<<display ch2crossing>>

<<display ch2spirits>>

<<display ch2crossing_no_trade>>

"I have to say, I like the sound of that. But I'll do you better." Little John ponders. "When we're settled, build me a tavern in the Deepwood. Your army'll need drink, and I need my place in the world." He pauses. "That's it. On your oath then, beneath these woods, do you swear it\n\n[[“I do.”|ch2johnquestions_i_do]]\n[[I remain silent.|ch2johnquestions_i_remain_silent]]

The torch catches easily, and sheds its light glow into the cave.\n\n<<display ch2cave_cave_interior>>

"I can't believe I'm doing this," Marian whispers in your ear. "Alright, here we go!"\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength -= $marian_romance*100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_transfer>>

"I thought there was something odd about your manner," Marian sighs. "And here I was, hoping you'd be a proper girlfriend." \n\n<<set $male = true>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_dinner>>

<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\nIt doesn't take long for the bear settle down. Soon enough, the cave is filled with the sound of his tremendous snores.\n\n<<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "taken">>\s\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

"Do." Marian studies the surrounding forest and picks a direction, seemingly at random but with quiet certainty. "The Friar has the ear of the people. The support of the church is tremendous. At the very least, sermons in our favor or word of what’s going on in town can swing the odds."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

"Thank you for your kind words. I've gotten us this far, but I don't see what else can be done. I've hoped for so long..."\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

"Keep talking." Litlle John grips his quarterstaff. "You have my attention."\n\n<<display ch2johnquestions_argument_continues>>

<<if $spirit_strength lte 0>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength = 25>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $renown gte $spirit_strength>>\s\n[[“Truth, Elspeth. Who was the Black Knight? Why are you tied together in grief?”|ch2spirits_truth_elspeth_who_was_the]] (<<print $spirit_strength>> renown)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;“Truth, Elspeth. Who was the Black Knight? Why are you tied together in grief?” (<<print $spirit_strength>> renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I relinquish control of my body.|ch2spirits_no_control]]\n[[“Die, Sheriff.” I bring the sword down.|ch2spirits_die_sheriff_i_bring_the_down]]

Marian shakes her head, her hair flowing in black waves behind her back. "These are not some hapless foresters or taxmen, Robin. We face the Sheriff's best huntsman, their dogs and warhorses, weapons and armor. If we make a stand, then we fail — dead or captured. The best we can hope for is to delay them. Give ourselves more time to cross into the Deepwood."\n\n<<set $ch2_defile_stop = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2defile++>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

<<set $pirate_king = false>>\n<<set $old_oak = true>>\nYou climb a hundred feet up the Old Oak; its branches as wide as a country road. \n<<if $john_present>>\n<<display john_intro>>\n<<else>>\n<<display no_john_intro>>\n<<endif>>

"The accusations are baseless, and John considers the Sherrif a loyal subject. I doubt we could sway his opinion so simply."\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

Little John shows you a small collection of buildings connected by simple walkways. It's comfortable, hidden, and clearly only a fraction of what the great tree — and those around it — can support.\n\n"You could house a village up here." Marian looks around, awestruck.\n\n"Aye," Little John sets out platters of bread, cheese, and dried meat on a low table surrounded by cushions. "Or an army."\n\n<<display ch2dinner_bear>>

<<set $ch1_morning_money to true>>\s\nGuy shakes his head. "I was collecting the local taxes before detouring to hunt you through the forest, but one of my cousin's huntsmen men me enroute and relieved me of that burden. This was to have been a brief chase."\n\n<<set $ch1_morning_question++>>\s\n<<display ch1_morning_parley>>

Guy’s shoulders slump, and you see tears roll down his powdered cheeks. "What would… What would you have of me?"\n\nYou're momentarily distracted as the rockslide heaves once more, and the other two hounds dig their way free — alive and exhausted.\n\n<<display ch1_morning_capture>>

"Five men gone to keep you safe from the Sheriff?" Little John leads you across the bridge. "Come along, we'll raise our glasses in their honor."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_across>>

Unnoticed in the crowd, you escape from the main house to the Chapel. \n\n<<display Church_intro>>

It takes about an hour, but by the time you're done even you can't spot your men amidst the brush and trees.\n\n<<set $men -= 5>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2time += 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2followerdelay = 2>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

<<set $tax_raid = 50>>\n<<set $display_tax_raid = 50>>\n<<set $casual_difficulty = true>>\n<<display prologue_start>>

A dozen men surround you, daggers drawn.\n\n"Well, well, what have we here? A hooded poacher, in the king's forest?"\n\n<<display ch1marian_surrounded>>

"No!" Guy says. "Please! I'll call off my hounds! I'll leave this area of the forest and not return. Please!"\n\n[[“Alright. Call the hounds and leave.”|ch1_guy_marianopinion_kill_release]]\n[[“Sorry, Guy.”|ch1_guy_marianopinion_confirm]]

Guy raises his hands. "At least let me uncover the others. They may still live."\n\n[[“Go. Marian, watch him.”|ch1_morning_meetguy_watchhim]]\n[[“You’ve one hound left. Be grateful.”|ch1_morning_meetguy_onehound]]

<<set $ch1_morning_whyhunt to true>>\s\n"My dear cousin's orders." Guy grimaces. "Though heaven knows why. You’re nothing, a nobody." His eyes flick to Marian. "Or at least, you were. I warned him about needlessly antagonizing the populace. Now you have friends, and we, enemies."\n\n<<set $ch1_morning_question++>>\s\n<<display ch1_morning_parley>>

There’s a stiff wind, and the weather’s been dry. By the time you reached the edge of the fields, the fire has spread from the house to the church. The screams of everyone left behind echoes in your ears.\n\n[[The night passes...|the_night_passes]]

"Thank you." Little John looks relieved. "I worry about her, with no one but those goats around if something should happen."\n\n<<set $john_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

"Strange, isn’t it, how circumstances should throw us together like this, Locksley? As if it were fate, that you and I should meet in conflict until only one remains."\n\n<<if $ch2complete_alcoves and not $elsa_saved>>\s\n[[I set my lance to repel the Black Knight's charge.|ch2spirits_i_set_my_lance_to]]\n<<elseif not $ch2complete_alcoves and $elsa_saved>>\s\n[[I raise my sword. “Charge!”|ch2spirits_i_raise_my_sword_charge]]\n<<elseif $ch2complete_alcoves and $elsa_saved>>\s\n[[I raise my lance. “Charge!”|ch2spirits_i_raise_my_lance_charge]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[I draw my sword and ready to meet the charge.|ch2spirits_i_draw_my_sword_and]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I let the Black Knight make the first move.|ch2spirits_i_let_the_black_knight]]

<<set $questions++>>\s\n"They are indeed," the shepherdess nods, her eyes wide and serious. "They say the ghost of a great knight from King Arthur's day watches over this hill. He is assailed by evil spirits from the Deepwood every night, and the echoes of their struggles are sometimes felt by you and I. That's what happened here, with this stone."\n<<set $ch2_allison_question4 = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2ghosts = true>>\s\n\n[[“Nonsense. I don't believe in spirits.”|ch2shepherdess_nonsense_i_dont_believe_in]]\n[[“I take your warning seriously.”|ch2shepherdess_i_take_your_warning_seriously]]

<<if $john_present>>\s\n"Sherwood changes people," John speak softly into his cup. "And once the forest has you, she never lets you go."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n"To the unknown," Marian says. "To becoming more than we could ever imagine."\n\nYou echo her toast, and watch the wisps dart between the branches of the Old Oak. You are indeed in a strange place, different than any you ever thought you’d find, and there's no going back.\n\n<<display ch2dinner_dinner>>

<<if $ch2torch>>\s\n[[I light my torch.|ch2cave_i_light_my_torch]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2marian_light>>\s\n[[“Marian, do you have any light sources?”|ch2cave_marian_do_you_have_any]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I back out of the cave.|ch2cave_i_back_out_of_the]]

"Oh," Marian’s eyes light up. "Wouldn't it be appropriate if the master of hounds was, himself, a cat? At least for a little while?"\n\n[[“Do it.”|ch1_guy_curse_done]]\n[[“That's a bit cruel.”|ch1_guy_curse_nevermind]]

"So you are." Marian smiles. "I would have been just as quick to take up that charade had my father not insisted on having a proper daughter." She chuckles and shakes her head. "It’s good to know someone managed it, though I suppose it doesn’t really matter now that we're forest refugees. Now come along."\n\n<<set $female = true>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_dinner>>

<<display ch2spirits_halt>>

There’s a heavy thumping on the church doors. "Open up, in the name of the Sheriff."\n\nYou climb the ladder behind the altar into the earth, and take a long, winding passage that dumps you out into a hillside beyond the fields. <<display Fire_end>>

She sticks out her hand. "I'm Marian of Woodbridge, descendant of Morgana le Fey.\n\n<<display ch1marian_identity>>

<<if not $bounty_explanation>>\n<<set $bounty_explanation to true>>\n@@color:green;You now have a bounty on your head, and are wanted for crimes against the Crown. Bounty is measured in gold. The higher your bounty, the more resources the Sheriff of Nottingham will have to hunt you down. Your bounty rises steadily so long as you evade the Sheriff's forces, and may also rise due to certain actions.@@\n<<endif>>

You reconsider your options. \n\n<<display top_level_choices>>

"Then we'd better get back to the knoll, eh?"\n\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>

<<set $ch1_nobleq_court to true>>\s\nMarian brightens. "It'd be my pleasure." She launches into stories of her days in Richard's court, and while there are enormous feasts and fancy dresses, what she focuses most upon is the ceaseless gossip and backbiting between the nobles. You don't doubt that Marian's political skills are razor sharp.\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

<<set $start_faith++>>\s\n<<set $start_maids to true>>\s\n<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<display I_leave_the_study>>

<<display ch2crypt_marian_keeps_sword>>

<<set $questions++>>\s\n<<if $questions eq 2>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_leave_goats>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<if not $pet_the_goats>>\s\n[[I pet the goats|pet_the_goats]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2magic_advice>>\s\n[[I gather the trio of billy goats.|ch2ruins_gather_goats]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I leave the herd to their grazing.|ch2ruins_leave_goats]]\n<<endif>>\s

She smiles and takes another bite of jerky. "Bleh," she spits. "I can't eat another bite. Tomorrow we need to find real food."\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1_magicdinner_plan>>

<<display ch2travel_crossing2>>

The sky is smoke black at your back, shot red with devouring flames that fall upon only home you’ve ever known.\n\n[[The night passes...|the_night_passes]]

<<display ch2sheriff_nocross>>

<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<set $start_direction to true>>\s\nYou ride for the border of Nottinghamshire, but are forced to turn aside again and again as you spot patrols of the Sheriff’s men. It seems your attempts to leave the area are expected, though there is one place no patrol will travel. Sherwood Forest.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

<<set $ch1_outlawq_howlong to true>>\s\nMarian warms her hands over the fire. "A couple of weeks. We're forced to move every day or two to avoid the Sheriff's men."\n\n[[“Why don't you move deeper into the forest?”|ch1_outlawq_deeper]]\n[[“Why don't you fight back?”|ch1_outlawq_fightback]]\n[[I'm actually really hungry. I let Marian talk as she pleases.|ch1_outlawq_howlong_silent]]

You’re pulled from the press of servants by a leering guard along with Cook and Anna, a young maid.\n\n"Wait here." One of the guards drags Anna into the kitchen. "Try to leave and the hounds’ll eat you alive."\n\n"Heh," another guard takes Cook down the hall. "I like ‘em plump!"\n\nYou're alone, briefly.\n\n<<display kitchen_options>>

Guy gently coaxes his hounds to their feet. "We're going to leave now, <<print $player_name>>. We won't be back."\n\nTheir heads bowed, Guy and the Baskerville hounds vanish into the woods.\n\n"Well," Wolf is there, wagging his tail. "That was nice of you, and quite unexpected. Elsa — the unicorn? — She's doing well. Though she won't be joining you... I will. Now come on, I'll bet we can roast some meat at camp."\n\n<<set $wolf = true>>\s\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<set $church_perk++>>\s\n<<set $guy = "honored">>\s\n<<set $elsa_present = true>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 50>>\s\n<<set $renown += 200>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 36>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "2 pm.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

Your Merry Men spread out across the meadow, coordinating the search effort under your expert command. Soon enough, Much the Miller's Son signals you over to a hidden hollow. A young, blond-haired shepherdess sits in the center of the hollow. An enormous stone slab blocks her escape.\n\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_found>>

"Some are born leaders, some achieve leadership, and some have leadership thrust upon them." <<display ch1_outlawdinner_end>>

The cave is pitch black beyond a few feet. You need some kind of light.\n\n<<if $wolf and not $ch2cave_entrance>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_wolf_warning>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_into_cave>>\n<<endif>>\s

Marian bites her lip. "Don’t get yourself killed. We’ll be back."\n\n<<set $marian_action = "noble">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

<<if $royal>>\n\t<<set $player_title = ($male) ? "Prince" : "Princess">>\n\t<<set $player_surname = "of Sherwood">>\n<<else>>\n\t<<if $noble>>\n\t\t<<set $player_title = ($male) ? "Lord" : "Lady">>\n\t\t<<set $player_surname = "of Locksley">>\n\t<<else>>\n\t\t<<if $crusader>>\n\t\t\t<<set $player_title = "Squire">>\n\t\t\t<<set $player_surname = "of Locksley">>\n\t\t<<else>>\n\t\t\t<<if $yeoman>>\n\t\t\t\t<<set $player_title = ($male) ? "Sir" : "Dame">>\n\t\t\t\t<<set $player_surname = "of Locksley Farm">>\n\t\t\t<<else>>\n\t\t\t\t<<if $serf>>\n\t\t\t\t\t<<set $player_title = ($male) ? "Sir" : "Dame">>\n\t\t\t\t\t<<set $player_surname = "of Sherwood">>\n\t\t\t\t<<else>>\n\t\t\t\t\tBUG: Robin has no role\n\t\t\t\t<<endif>>\n\t\t\t<<endif>>\n\t\t<<endif>>\n\t<<endif>>\n<<endif>>\n\n<<set $player_name = $player_title + ' Robin ' + $player_surname>>\n\n<<if $marian eq 'outlaw'>>\n\t<<set $much_present = true>>\n\t<<display ch1_outlawdinner>>\n<<else>>\n\t<<if $marian eq 'noble'>>\n\t\t<<set $rosalind_present = true>>\n\t\t<<display ch1_nobledinner>>\n\t<<else>>\n\t\t<<display ch1_magicdinner>>\n\t<<endif>>\n<<endif>>

Little John reaches for the sky, his head barely staying above the water, as the river sweeps him out of sight.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_leave2>>

<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\nYou begin picking purple mushrooms. They react to your movement, and their spores waft into your face. You sneeze, twice, and blink. Blink again...\n\nMarian's calling your name, but you're just so sleepy...\n\n"Robin? Robin!" Marian's face swims into view. "Thank goodness you're awake. You fell over asleep into the mushrooms and crushed them. I couldn't do anything to wake you up. You were unconscious for almost an hour."\n\nClutched in your hand, you have a single purple mushroom. You remember now... It's called a purple nightcap, and when the spores are inhaled, it has soporific effects.\n\n<<set $purple_nightcap++>>\s\n<<set $ch2_mushrooms = "picked">>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

The men salut you and puff out their chests. "No one. Not us, and not you."\n\n<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

In no time, you’re beyond the fields and almost out of sight. You pause, briefly, in case of pursuit.\n\n<<display Fire_end>>

<<set $renown -= $spirit_strength>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_halt>>

<<if $gold gte 1000>>\s\n[[“Take this money, Anna, to help you on your way.”|Take_this_gold_Anna]] (1000 gold)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;“Take this money, Anna, to help you on your way." (1000 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $renown gte 250>>\s\n[[“Take these letters, Anna. Ask assistance from Robert Fitzhugh. He has always been a friend of the Locksleys.”|Take_these_letters,_Anna]] (250 renown)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;“Take these letters, Anna. Ask assistance from Robert Fitzhugh. He has always been a friend of the Locksleys." (250 renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Farewell, Anna. I'll miss you, too.”|Farewell_Anna]]\n[[“I barely know you. Good luck with your life.”|Farewell_Anna]]\n\n<<display purchase_explanation>>

<<set $ch2dinner_i_might_become_a_farmer to true>>\s\n"Come now, Robin. You'd really settle for the life of a common merchant?"\n\n[[“I've already had enough adventure to last a lifetime. Yes.”|ch2dinner_ive_already_had_enough_adventure]]\n[[“No, not really.”|ch2dinner_no_not_really]]

You stand by the entrance to the waterfall cave.\n\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\n"Locksley!" The Sheriff cries through the smoke. A blazing ceiling beam crashes to the floor behind you, blocks the door. "This isn’t over, Locksley!"\n\n<<display Yard_in_chaos>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

"Indeed." The Sheriff strokes his goatee. "I should have killed you a long time ago."\n\n<<display ch2sheriff_trapped_here>>

<<if $ch1_morning_question eq 2>>\s\n<<display ch1_morning_farewell>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch1_morning_parley_questions>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2travel_crossing>>

<<display ch2travel_crossing>>

"Like I said, there's an old ruin upriver." Little John waves in the direction of the water. "Sits on a hill in the middle of the field, you can't miss it. Within that ruin is a tomb, and within that tomb is a magical drinking horn. Bring me that horn, and you can cross this bridge as often as you like."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $men += 4>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1000>>\s\n<<set $start_maids to true>>\s\nYou step into the hallway and pin a pair of guards to the wall with arrows through their throats\n\nThe maids follow, spit at the guards’ feet, and take their daggers.\n\n<<display Escape_with_maids>>\n\n<<if not $men_explanation>>\s\n<<display men_explanation>>\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<if $ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued">>\s\n"Quickly, Robin," <<print $possessed>> speaks. "Get to safety. The Black Knight approaches."\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>\s\n"Quickly, Robin," <<print $possessed>> speaks. "Get the shepherdess to safety. The Black Knight approaches."\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<display spirits_helping_questions>>

"A sound argument. Well," Marian resettles her pack across her shoulders. "Tell Little John when we see him next. Maybe it will sway him."\n\n<<display ch2cave_bear>>

<<display ch2spirits_death>>

"I've heard stories about him since I was a child."\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

Little John watches you and fingers his staff. "What'll it be?"\n\n<<if not $ch2arrow>>\s\n[[Bow and sword. He's only one man, after all.|ch2crossing_john_arrow]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($much_present) and (not $ch2_john_attack1)>>\s\n[[“At him, men. Charge!”|ch2crossing_john_men]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_staff_duel eq 0>>\s\n[[“A duel, John. Staff against staff.”|ch2crossing_first_duel]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_staff_duel gt 0>>\s\n[[I spin the quarterstaff in my hands. “Are you up for another round?”|ch2crossing_another_duel]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[Maybe fighting isn't a good idea.|ch2crossing_reconsider_fight]]

"And I know you. You came to my family's farm for food several days ago. <<if $no_food_from_farm>>I'm sorry we couldn't spare any food. With the Sheriff's men roaming the countryside, it's been a bad year." She grimaces. "Good deeds deserve a turn, but I hope you'll consider helping me regardless."<<else>>I hope you enjoyed your meal, especially the cheese. Our goats graze exclusively on a diet of haunted meadow grass."<<endif>>\n\n<<set $questions++>>\s\n<<set $ch2_allison_question1 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>

Little John's eyes light up at the heavy gleam of gold in your hand. "I'll need to hold onto that for a bit. Make sure it's the real thing."\n\nMarian whispers in your ear. "This may get us across, Robin. But I doubt you'll ever see that seal again, and without it your heritage will be very hard to prove."\n\n[[Life is more important than lineage. I hand over the seal.|ch2johnquestions_life_is_more_important_than]]\n[[“I will not give up my birthright.”|ch2johnquestions_i_will_not_give_up]]

Guy nods and begins packing his belongings. "I can’t promise never to return, nor to speak our encounter to the Sheriff. But you have my respect, Locksley."\n\nYou and Guy part ways. Unimpeded by his hounds, you move deeper into the forest.\n<<set $guy = "honored">>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 68>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "10 am.">>\s\n\n<<display ch1interlude>>

"A joke, I guess." The woman shrugs. "In Greek mythology, Actaeon was a hunter who happened upon the goddess Artemis bathing in a stream. She turned him into a stag, and he was eaten by his own hounds. When I met the white hart, it was the first name that came to mind."\n\n[[“Isn't that a little twisted?”|ch1marian_isn't_that_a_little_twisted]]\n[[“Artemis wasn't very nice.”|ch1marian_artemis_wasn't_very_nice]]

John hefts the seal in his hands and slips it into his pocket. "Whenever you're ready."\n\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<set $royal_seal = false>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing>>

"Of course, my prince." Marian bows her head. "But imagine, for a moment, that kingship is not an option."\n\n<<set $pirate_king = true>>\s\n<<display ch2dinner_considering>>

The lantern explodes in a wash of flame, fire licking up the walls and devouring the guard’s trousers. The guard screams and bats ineffectually at himself.\n\nIt’s time to go.\n\nYou hoist your sacks over your shoulders and escape into the night. \n\n<<display Fire_escape>>

"Then jump!"\n\n<<set $marian_romance += 2>>\s\n<<display ch1_morning_leap>>

You leave empty-handed, with nothing but lost time to show for your effort.\n\n<<set $no_food_from_farm to true>>\s\n<<display time_of_day>>

The tip of your bow sinks into brittle leaves and soft loam as you drag yourself to your feet, drag your sword free, and hop to the wolf’s side. The hound lowers its head and growls.\n\n"Three hundred pounds of muscle, jaws, and death." Wolf raises his hackles, and you imagine his speech. "Your blade had better hit the heart… Both of them."\n\nThere’s a yelp from beyond the hollow. The hound raises its head to the sky, turns, and vanishes into the forest.\n\nA unicorn stands proud on the crest of a hill. Silhouetted in the last light of the sun, it watches you.\n\nThen, in the blink of an eye, both creatures are gone.\n\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\n<<display ch1start_R>>

"Sherwood Forest." The woman watches until the the hart disappears into the forest. "I hope that doesn't surprise you." <<display ch1marian_welcome>>

<<set $spirit_strength -= 100>>\s\nThe Black Knight dismounts from his steed, drops his lance, and walks forward, hands raised. "You have killed me once already, Elspeth. I cannot win, for you are my better. Now come, make it quick."\n\nElspeth seizes control of your arms and your fist lashes out, lays the Black Knight onto his back. She draws your sword before you are able to control yourself once more.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_kill>>

<<if not $ch2crossing_mo_barter>>\s\n[[“Barter? Do we have anything valuable enough?”|ch2crossing_mo_barter]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2crossing_mo_chat>>\s\n[[“Let's try talking to him.”|ch2crossing_mo_chat]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Alright, enough planning.”|ch2crossing_m_done]]\n[[“I'm not sure I like any of those ideas.”|ch2crossing_m_dislike]]

You settle down to a hearty meal, and the talk slows as you eat your fill. By the time you're sated, you realize you're sitting alone at the table.\n\n<<display ch2after_dinner>>

<<set $john_argument -= 50>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_argument_continues2>>

The wind tousles your hair. The Sheriff's men draw ever closer while you frolic in the meadow.\n\n<<display ch2ruins_start>>

<<if not $ch2water_walk>>\s\n<<display ch2travel_water_first>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2travel_waterfall>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if $male>>\s\n"Good on you, <<print $much_nickname>>. Good on you." Much smacks his lips. "Happy to have another talker on our hands, even if all you do is listen up. We are all for Lady Woodbridge, excuse me, Marian of the Green, as she calls herself now — but she’s been quiet since the escape." He pauses, but the effect is clearly dramatic, intended for effect. "I been with her from the start, see? <<display ch1interlude_marian_pitch>>\n<<else>>\s\n"Yep, yep. I know." Much blushes slightly. He looks like he’s working up to something. "You know, <<print $much_nickname>>. You’re mighty pretty." \n\n<<set $much_romance += 2>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_much_ladies_man>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $day++>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight = $ch2time>>\s\nYou pause for lunch beneath a spreading oak. You've escaped the Sheriff, for now, but he's bound to have more hunters on your trail soon enough.\n\n<<display ch1_camp_options>>

<<set $ch2defile++>>\s\nYou spend the next twenty minutes carefully placing a number of snares throughout the defile. They're unlikely to hurt anyone, but they'll buy you some time.\n\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2time += 8>>\s\n<<set $renown -= 100>>\s\n<<set $ch2_defile_stop3 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

The sound of an approaching group of guards sends you out into the night. \n\n<<display Smoke>>

<<set $We_are_not_alone_in_the_forest = true>>\s\nThe pigherd's eyes widen as he counts the gold into his hand. "Absolutely, absolutely. Them Sheriff's men won't know which way is north if they cross my path." He shoos his pigs onward through the trees.\n\n<<set $gold -= 500>>\s\n<<set $ch2time += 5>>\s\n<<display ch1_camp_options>>

<<print $player_name>>\nGold: <<print $gold>>\n<<if $display_gold neq $gold>>\s\n<<if $gold gt $display_gold>>\s\n@@color:green;+<<print ($gold -$display_gold)>>@@\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;-<<print ($display_gold -$gold)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_gold = $gold>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\nRenown: <<print $renown>>\n<<if $display_renown neq $renown>>\s\n<<if $renown gt $display_renown>>\s\n@@color:green;+<<print ($renown -$display_renown)>>@@\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;-<<print ($display_renown -$renown)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_renown = $renown>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<print "Merry Men: " + $men>>\n<<if $display_men neq $men>>\s\n<<if $men gt $display_men>>\s\n@@color:green;+<<print ($men -$display_men)>>@@\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;-<<print ($display_men -$men)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_men = $men>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<print "Bounty: " + $bounty>>\n<<if $display_bounty neq $bounty>>\s\n<<if $bounty gt $display_bounty>>\s\n@@color:green;+<<print ($bounty -$display_bounty)>>@@\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;-<<print ($display_bounty -$bounty)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_bounty = $bounty>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<if $chapter neq "hub">>\s\n<<if $display_grace neq $grace>>\s\n<<if $grace gt $display_grace>>\s\n@@color:green;Grace +<<print ($grace -$display_grace)>>@@\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;Grace -<<print ($display_grace -$grace)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_grace = $grace>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "hub">>\s\nGrace: <<print $grace>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "2">>\s\n<<if $ch2_daylight gt 0>>\s\nRemaining Daylight: <<if $ch2_daylight gt 50>>@@color:green;<<print $ch2_daylight>>%@@<<elseif $ch2_daylight lte 50 and $ch2_daylight gt 30>><<print $ch2_daylight>><<else>>@@color:orange;<<print $ch2_daylight>>%@@<<endif>>\n<<if $ch2_display_daylight neq $ch2_daylight>>\s\n<<if $ch2_daylight gt $ch2_display_daylight>>\s\n@@color:green;+<<print ($ch2_daylight -$ch2_display_daylight)>>%@@\n<<elseif $ch2_daylight lt $ch2_display_daylight>>\s\n@@color:red;-<<print ($ch2_display_daylight -$ch2_daylight)>>%@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $ch2_display_daylight = $ch2_daylight>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<elseif $ch2_daylight lte 0>>\s\nRemaining Daylight: @@color:orange;Sunset@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "2 spirits">>\s\nRemaining Daylight: @@color:orange;Sunset@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "will banquet">>\s\nMarian's Assitance: <<if not $marian_helping>>@@color:green;Available@@<<else>>@@color:red;Used@@<<endif>>\n<<if $support_me_in_my_discussions_with_Will_and_Robert>>\s\nKatherine's Assitance: <<if not $ask_a_boon>>@@color:green;Available@@<<else>>@@color:red;Used@@<<endif>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "4 battle">>\s\nRobin: <<if $robin_assigned eq "attack">>Attack<<endif>><<if $robin_assigned eq "defend">>Defense<<endif>><<if $robin_assigned eq "">>Unassigned<<endif>><<if $robin_assigned eq "bonnet">>Spring Bonnets<<endif>><<if $robin_assigned eq "night">>Purple Nightcap<<endif>><<if $robin_assigned eq "slip">>Slip Leaf<<endif>><<if $robin_assigned eq "mandrake">>Mandrake Root<<endif>>\nMarian: <<if $marian_assigned eq "attack">>Attack<<endif>><<if $marian_assigned eq "defend">>Defense<<endif>><<if $marian_assigned eq "">>Unassigned<<endif>><<if $marian_assigned eq "forest">>Magic Ritual<<endif>><<if $marian_assigned eq "heal">>Healing<<endif>><<if $marian_assigned eq "bonnet">>Spring Bonnets<<endif>><<if $marian_assigned eq "night">>Purple Nightcap<<endif>><<if $marian_assigned eq "slip">>Slip Leaf<<endif>><<if $marian_assigned eq "mandrake">>Mandrake Root<<endif>>\n<<if $will_present>>\s\nWill Scarlet: <<if $will_assigned eq "attack">>Attack<<endif>><<if $will_assigned eq "defend">>Defense<<endif>><<if $will_assigned eq "">>Unassigned<<endif>><<if $will_assigned eq "gold">>Gold Retrieval<<endif>><<if $will_assigned eq "bonnet">>Spring Bonnets<<endif>><<if $will_assigned eq "night">>Purple Nightcap<<endif>><<if $will_assigned eq "slip">>Slip Leaf<<endif>><<if $will_assigned eq "mandrake">>Mandrake Root<<endif>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $john_present>>\s\nLittle John: <<if $john_assigned eq "attack">>Attack<<endif>><<if $john_assigned eq "defend">>Defense<<endif>><<if $john_assigned eq "">>Unassigned<<endif>><<if $john_assigned eq "gold">>Gold Retrieval<<endif>><<if $john_assigned eq "bonnet">>Spring Bonnets<<endif>><<if $john_assigned eq "night">>Purple Nightcap<<endif>><<if $john_assigned eq "slip">>Slip Leaf<<endif>><<if $john_assigned eq "mandrake">>Mandrake Root<<endif>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $elspeth_present and $elspeth_arrives_to_fight>>\s\n<<if $elspeth_arrives_to_fight>>Elspeth: <<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "attack">>Attack<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "defend">>Defense<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "">>Unassigned<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "bonnet">>Spring Bonnets<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "night">>Purple Nightcap<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "slip">>Slip Leaf<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "mandrake">>Mandrake Root<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "pellinore">>Heal Sir Pellinore<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "amaranth">>Heal Amaranth<<endif>><<if $elspeth_assigned eq "heal">>Healing and Defense<<endif>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $wolf>>\s\nWolf: <<if $wolf_assigned eq "attack">>Attack<<endif>><<if $wolf_assigned eq "defend">>Defense<<endif>><<if $wolf_assigned eq "">>Unassigned<<endif>><<if $wolf_assigned eq "bonnet">>Spring Bonnets<<endif>><<if $wolf_assigned eq "night">>Purple Nightcap<<endif>><<if $wolf_assigned eq "slip">>Slip Leaf<<endif>><<if $wolf_assigned eq "mandrake">>Mandrake Root<<endif>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $men gt 0>>\s\nUnassigned Merry Men: <<print $ch4_follower_number>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "4 battle fighting">>\s\nAttack Strength: <<print $ch4_base_attack>>\n<<if $display_attack_strength neq $ch4_base_attack>>\s\n<<if $ch4_base_attack gt $display_attack_strength>>\s\n@@color:green;+<<print ($ch4_base_attack -$display_attack_strength)>>@@\n<<elseif $ch4_base_attack lt $display_attack_strength>>\s\n@@color:red;-<<print ($display_attack_strength -$ch4_base_attack)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_attack_strength = $ch4_base_attack>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\nDefense Strength: <<print $ch4_base_defense>>\n<<if $display_defense_strength neq $ch4_base_defense>>\s\n<<if $ch4_base_defense gt $display_defense_strength>>\s\n@@color:green;+<<print ($ch4_base_defense -$display_defense_strength)>>@@\n<<elseif $ch4_base_defense lt $display_defense_strength>>\s\n@@color:red;-<<print ($display_defense_strength -$ch4_base_defense)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_defense_strength = $ch4_base_defense>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\nSir Pellinore: <<if $ch4_pellinore_healing lt 5>>@@color:red;Dying@@<<elseif $ch4_pellinore_healing gte 5 and $ch4_pellinore_healing lte 10>>@@color:black;Uncertain@@<<else>>@@color:green;Healed@@<<endif>>\nAmaranth: <<if $ch4_amaranth_healing lt 5>>@@color:red;Dying@@<<elseif $ch4_amaranth_healing gte 5 and $ch4_amaranth_healing lte 10>>@@color:black;Uncertain@@<<else>>@@color:green;Healed@@<<endif>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "6 start">>\s\n<<print "Stealth: " + $stealth + "%">>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "6">>\s\n<<if $hall_position gte 1 and $hall_position lt 30>>\s\n<<print $hall_location>>\n\n<<print "Stealth: " + Math.round(($stealth -= $guard_alarm)/4) + "%">>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $public_fight>>\s\n<<if $hall_position eq 30>>\s\nThe Ballroom\n\n<<print "Ballroom Stealth: " + Math.round(100 -= $sheriff_suspicion/3) + "%">>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "8 tourney">>\s\nTournament Points\nRobin: <<print $robin_points>>\nHenri: <<print $henri_points>>\nClara: <<print $clara_points>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "war" or $chapter eq "camelot" or $chapter eq "treaty" or $chapter eq "ritual">>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "war" or $chapter eq "camelot">>\s\n<<if $fight_total gte 0>>\s\nForest Security: <<print $fight_total>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<set $negative_forest_total = (0-$fight_total)>>\s\nForest Vulnerability: @@color:red;<<print $negative_forest_total>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $fight_total neq $display_fight_total>>\s\n<<if $fight_total gt $display_fight_total>>\s\n@@color:green;Forest Defense +<<print ($fight_total -$display_fight_total)>>@@\n<<elseif $fight_total lt $display_fight_total>>\s\n@@color:red;Forest Defense -<<print ($display_fight_total -$fight_total)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_fight_total = $fight_total>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "treaty" or $chapter eq "camelot">>\s\n<<if $vote_total gte 0>>\s\nConclave Approval: <<print $vote_total>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<set $negative_vote_total = (0-$vote_total)>>\s\nConclave Disapproval: @@color:red;<<print $negative_vote_total>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $vote_total neq $display_vote_total>>\s\n<<if $vote_total gt $display_vote_total>>\s\n@@color:green;Conclave Approval +<<print ($vote_total -$display_vote_total)>>@@\n<<elseif $vote_total lt $display_vote_total>>\s\n@@color:red;Conclave Approval -<<print ($display_vote_total -$vote_total)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_vote_total = $vote_total>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "ritual" or $chapter eq "camelot">>\s\n<<if $ritual_total gte 0>>\s\nRitual Integrity: <<print $ritual_total>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<set $negative_ritual_total = (0-$ritual_total)>>\s\nRitual Disruption: @@color:red;<<print $negative_ritual_total>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ritual_total neq $display_ritual_total>>\s\n<<if $ritual_total gt $display_ritual_total>>\s\n@@color:green;Ritual Strength +<<print ($ritual_total -$display_ritual_total)>>@@\n<<elseif $ritual_total lt $display_ritual_total>>\s\n@@color:red;Ritual Strength -<<print ($display_ritual_total -$ritual_total)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_ritual_total = $ritual_total>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $chapter eq "camelot">>\s\nLegendary Momentum: <<print $camelot_total>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<elseif $chapter neq "end">>\s\n<<if $improvements_active>>\s\nForest Defense: <<print $fight_total>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $fight_total neq $display_fight_total>>\s\n<<if $fight_total gt $display_fight_total>>\s\n@@color:green;Forest Defense +<<print ($fight_total -$display_fight_total)>>@@\n<<elseif $fight_total lt $display_fight_total>>\s\n@@color:red;Forest Defense -<<print ($display_fight_total -$fight_total)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_fight_total = $fight_total>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $improvements_active>>\s\nPolitical Influence: <<print $vote_total>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $vote_total neq $display_vote_total>>\s\n<<if $vote_total gt $display_vote_total>>\s\n@@color:green;Political Influence +<<print ($vote_total -$display_vote_total)>>@@\n<<elseif $vote_total lt $display_vote_total>>\s\n@@color:red;Political Influence -<<print ($display_vote_total -$vote_total)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_vote_total = $vote_total>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $improvements_active>>\s\nMagical Discoveries: <<print $ritual_total>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ritual_total neq $display_ritual_total>>\s\n<<if $ritual_total gt $display_ritual_total>>\s\n@@color:green;Magical Discoveries +<<print ($ritual_total -$display_ritual_total)>>@@\n<<elseif $ritual_total lt $display_ritual_total>>\s\n@@color:red;Magical Discoveries -<<print ($display_ritual_total -$ritual_total)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_ritual_total = $ritual_total>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $camelot_total neq $display_camelot_total>>\s\n<<if $camelot_total gt $display_camelot_total>>\s\n@@color:green;Legendary Momentum +<<print ($camelot_total -$display_camelot_total)>>@@\n<<elseif $camelot_total lt $display_camelot_total>>\s\n@@color:red;Legendary Momentum -<<print ($display_camelot_total -$camelot_total)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_camelot_total = $camelot_total>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $tax_raid neq $display_tax_raid>>\s\n<<if $tax_raid gt $display_tax_raid>>\s\n@@color:green;Tactical Experience +<<print ($tax_raid -$display_tax_raid)>>@@\n<<elseif $tax_raid lt $display_tax_raid>>\s\n@@color:red;Sheriff's Patrol Strength +<<print ($display_tax_raid -$tax_raid)>>@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $display_tax_raid = $tax_raid>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<if $day eq 1 or $day eq 21 or $day eq 31>>\s\n<<set $day_suffix = "st">>\s\n<<elseif $day eq 2 or $day eq 3 or $day eq 22 or $day eq 23>>\n<<set $day_suffix = "nd">>\s\n<<else>>\s\n<<set $day_suffix = "th">>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $month eq "April" or $month eq "June" or $month eq "September" or $month eq "November">>\s\n<<if $day gt 30>>\s\n<<set $day = 30>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<else>>\s\n<<if $day gt 31>>\s\n<<set $day = 31>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $date = $month + " " + $day + $day_suffix + ", " + $year>>\s\n<<print $date>>

"You're right, Rosalind. Warden or no, the Sheriff needs to be stopped, before more people get hurt. Robin, do you have any suggestions?"\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_campfireplan>>

<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<set $weapons_found to true>>\s\n<<set $start_diplomacy++>>\s\nYou meet with the young smith, Brown Adam. "I thought I saw smoke this morning. It’s bad business, what the Sheriff does, but I’d rather not get caught up in it. I have both bow and sword, but they will cost you."\n\n<<display smith_options>>

@@color:green;You'll need as many men as possible to defeat the Sheriff in combat. You Forest Defenses reflects your base's readiness to repel the Sheriff's attack.@@

You reach Little John in several strong, sure strokes. At this point, you and this stretch of river are like old friends, and you manage to get to shore before being swept over the waterfall.\n\n"My thanks," Little John laughs in between coughing water from his lungs. "I suppose I deserved that. You may cross the river at will, you have my staff at your side for as long as you travel the Deepwood, and I owe you this." He pulls a large gemstone out of his pocket, an amethyst the size of a goose egg. "For my life."\n\n<<set $gold += 2500>>\s\n<<set $john_present = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_leave>>

"He doesn't seem to mind." <<display ch1marian_welcome>>

Guy stands slowly. "Locksley and Marian. You could have killed me just now, so I suppose I shall afford you every courtesy. I’d offer you tea, but I only have one mug."\n\n<<display ch1_guy_parley>>

"So you’re just going to lay there?" Wolf flicks his other ear, now flanked by two hounds.\n\nYou hear a yelp from beyond the hollow. The hounds raise their heads to the sky and flee. Silhouetted by a late ray of sun at the top of the hollow is a snow white unicorn, nacre horn tipped with blood.\n\nWolf watches you. Then, in the blink of an eye both he and the unicorn are gone.\n\n<<display ch1start_R>>

"You really do believe people are better than they are?" Marian chuckles. "I suppose it's worth a try."\n\n<<set $friends = true>>\s\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>

"So she is." Elspeth squares her metaphysical shoulders. "Come what may, let’s go."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_save_elsa>>

<<display ch2crypt_leave_crypt>>

"You mean to lure him away from the crossing to help Allison, and we cross while he's away? Clever."\n\n<<display ch2ruins>>

"Much the Miller's Son," a woman's voice cracks through the clearing. "Is that any way to welcome a guest to Sherwood?"\n\nA woman with long dark hair and green eyes strides up to you. She's dressed in fitted hunting leathers and carries a bow and longsword. "Never mind them. I'm Marian, leader of this misfit band of outlaws and cutthroats. We spit on the king's law and on the Sheriff that bleeds Nottingham dry.\n\n<<display ch1marian_identity>>

<<set $ch1_magicq_whatnext to true>>\s\n"Before you showed up, I was hoping to find food, or money to trade for food at some of the nearby farms. I grew up with books and servants. I never had the chance to appreciate how useless I am."\n\n[[“You found me, and I'm happy for the company. Besides, I have skills that can help us in these woods. We'll get by.”|ch1_magicq_whatnext_happy]]\n[[“We can't hide, then. Magic or no, we need to make the Sheriff pay. And for that, we need allies.”|ch1_magicdinner_allies]]\n[[I watch the fire and let Marian think.|ch1_magicq_whatnext_silent]]

<<set $ch2_location = "waterfall">>\s\n<<if $ch2time lte 0>>\s\n<<display ch2sheriff>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>\n<<endif>>\s

"The peasants are afraid of me. They've called me witch, and worse. If it weren't for my father's protection, I don't think I'd be alive today." She looks away. "My mother isn't."\n\n[[“People fear magic because they don't understand it. When we use magic to save their homes and families from the Sheriff, they'll change their mind.”|ch1_magicdinner_allies_stopmen_save]]\n[[“You have a point. We'd better keep to ourselves until we're strong enough to fend off an angry mob.”|ch1_magicdinner_allies_stopmen_mob]]

<<if not $ch2crossing_whats_the_catch>>\s\n[[“What's the catch?”|ch2crossing_quest_catch]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I'll see what I can do.”|ch2crossing_quest_accept]]\n[[“I'd rather not disturb the dead.”|ch2crossing_quest_deny]]

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1000>>\s\n<<set $renown += 500>>\s\nA huge beam of flaming wood crashes down from the ceiling, separating the two forces. On the far side of the fire, a shadowed figure stalks through the smoke. "Locksley!" The figure snarls. "I’m coming for you, Locksley!" \n\n"Now, Robin." Someone pulls at your arm. "We have to escape."\n\nThe church is burning around your ears. You escape into the yard and then, into the fields beyond.\n\n<<nobr>>\n<<if $start_women>> \n<<display Women_and_children_saved_by_secret_passage>>\n<<else>>\n<<display women_and_children_not_saved>>\n<<endif>>\n<<endnobr>>\n\n<<if not $renown_explanation>>\s\n<<display renown_explanation>>\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

He noses at your pack and tries to drag it off your back with his teeth.\n\n"I...don't think he's happy that we took some of the treasure," Marian says. "That wasn't very stealthy, Robin."\n\n[[He's out of the doorway. I bolt for the exit!|ch2cave_he's_out_of_the_doorway_bolt]]\n[[I empty the money and jewels from my pack.|ch2cave_i_empty_the_money_and_from]]

<<set $start_nature++>>\s\nThe hart turns at the last moment and flips the wolf up and over its antlers. The wolf lands heavy, and the hart, head high, prances back into the forest. \n\n"Well," you imagine the wolf's sarcastic voice as it slowly levers itself to its feet. "That was embarrassing. How about we keep this little incident between the two of us?" He limps back into the forest.\n\n<<if $I_take_refuge_in_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest>>\s\n<<display start_day_3>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display top_level_choices>>\n<<endif>>\s

"Must I, Robin? A sword should be used, not left in a crypt."\n\n[[“It belonged to this brave knight, and no knight should be without her sword — in this life, or the next.”|ch2crypt_it_belonged_to_this_brave]]\n[[“You're right. Keep it.”|ch2crypt_you're_right_keep_it]]

<<set $ch1_magicq_teachmagic to true>>\s\n"With a little time, perhaps. Not everyone has that touch of wonder needed to make magic happen, but if never hurts to try." She cracks her knuckles. "Let's see. We'll begin with three words you can whisper to the wind, to help your arrows fly true."\n\nYou practice for about an hour, and by the end of it you can consistently send a whirlwind of sparks rushing from the campfire with three magic words.\n\n"There you go. The rest takes years. Is there anything else you want to talk about?"\n\n<<set $tax_raid += 3>>\s\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>\n<<display tactics_tooltip>>

"I didn't think that, you did. Don't worry, Robin. You're also a special, special snowflake." Wolf barks, for effect. "Either that, or you’re going insane." He veers off your path and vanishes into the forest.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_end_wolf>>

"Well, then, Robin of Sherwood." Marian straightens and clears her throat. "As I am a lady, I release you from any vows of service which bind you to the land. You are free." She blows hair from her eyes. "There, that's done. For what it's worth.\n\n<<display ch1marian_serf_choice>>

<<set $pet_the_goats = true>>\s\nThe goats are happy for the attention. One of them tries to eat your bow.\n\nBad goats.\n\n<<display ch2ruins_goats>>

<<set $ch1_guyq_calloff = true>>\s\n"I can do so," he raises a whistle to his mouth. "Clearly they're after other quarry. Once they return here and pick up your scent — previously lost, we’ll be on your trail before the hour is out."\n<<set $ch1_guy_question++>>\s\n\n[[“Do it.”|ch1_guyq_calloff_confirm]]\n[[“Leave off.”|ch1_guyq_calloff_changemind]]

<<set $ch1_question++>>\s\n<<if $ch1_question eq 4>>\s\n<<display ch1_magicdinner_noquestions>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch1_magicdinner_firstquestion>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $brown_adam_weapons to true>>\s\n"Holiday’s a good name," Brown Adam takes a shine to him immediately and brings over a basket of apples.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

<<set $renown += 75>>\s\nYour arrow sinks into the crack, a sound multiplied a thousandfold as the cliff face collapses over the hounds. When the dust clears, wolf and unicorn are nowhere to be seen.\n\nThe rock pile shudders as the hounds struggle against the weight of stone, and a horse’s hoofbeats echo through the woods. \n\n"Come on, Robin," Marian drag you away. "You’ve done your good deed for the day, your debt is paid. Let’s get out of here."\n\n[[“Point taken. Let’s go.”|ch1_morning_crack_go]]\n[[“No, I want to meet this Guy of Gisborne.”|ch1_morning_meetguy]]

You smell smoke on the air, and distant screams coming from the direction of the church. Yet no shouts of pursuit, no hissing arrows or ringing swords. <<display Fire_end>>

"A secret? Just like in the fairy tales." Marian smiles. "You should at least have a title. I shall refer to you as <<if $start_female>>Princess<<else>>Prince<<endif>> of Sherwood. No one here will contest that claim.\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_gender>>

<<set $start_nature++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\nThe maids are standing in the hallway over the body of a dead guard, bloody daggers in their hands. You gather up the vengeful women, urge them to speed through the growing smoke.\n\n<<display Escape_with_maids>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

"Aw, shucks." Much blushes scarlet and seems, momentarily, at a loss for words. "Now, seeing as how I grew up near Sherwood, there’s a little bit you should know about the forest…" Much begins pointing at different plants and their uses. The topic of your beauty does not come up again.\n\n<<set $much_romance += 2>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

There is a sound like distant trumpets, and the sword settles into its resting spot.\n\n<<set $elspeth_sword = "elspeth">>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

Marian nods. "Sounds like a plan. Let's go." She glances at the sun. "This area is large, Robin, and just about everything takes time. We need to be careful the Sheriff doesn't catch up to us."\n\n<<display ch2travel>>

<<set $dinner = false>>\n<<set $marian_advice = 0>>\n<<set $ch2_location = "crossing">>\n<<if $ch2time lte 0>>\n<<display ch2sheriff>>\n<<else>>\n<<display crossing_intro_text>>\n<<endif>>

Marian gives you a tight smile. "I'd like to hope so."\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

Your fingers slip off roots and branches. Battered and bruised, you feel the ground disappear beneath your feet —\n\n<<display ch2defile_falling>>

<<if $male>>\s\n"So we are. Right as rain it is to be on a first name basis of so fine a hunter as yourself. Now, seeing as how you can hunt, and likely fight, we’ve got ourselves a job to do — you and I — when the time is right. I been with Marian from the start, see? <<display ch1interlude_marian_pitch>>\n<<else>>\s\n"I can rightly say I appreciate being on a first name basis with you, Miss Robin. And, that being the case… If you don’t mind my saying so, you’re mighty pretty." \n<<set $much_romance++>>\s\n\n<<display ch1interlude_much_ladies_man>>\n<<endif>>\s

Marian squares her shoulders. "I'll follow your lead, Robin."\n\nLittle John watches you, patient.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

<<if $wolf>>\s\nYou fall behind briefly to tie your shoe while Marian scouts the trail ahead.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_end>>\n<<endif>>\s

You step back to consider your options.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

You and Rosalind walk in silence for a time. "We forgot my lady’s makeup, of course. If you can imagine the amount of time and effort that Matilda — she’s the other maid — insists on taking to dress my lady in the morning — it’s surprising there’s any time left in the day." Rosalind gossips and gripes about her duties — a life different than any you’d ever known — and the proclivities of all the many suitors who’ve come to visit Marian over the past year. Names and titles wash over you, but the chatter does help the afternoon pass.\n\n<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

Marian notices the pike as she's pulling the sword loose with her talons. She dodges the creature's vicious bite and frantically returns to human form. There's a flash of light and the pike swims away, scorch marks across its scales.\n\nShe climbs, sopping wet, from the pool, sword in hand. "I got it, Robin, no thanks to you." She hugs the sword to her chest. "And I'm keeping it."\n\n<<set $elspeth_sword = "marian">>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>

"This is a curse. Elspeth is bound by blood and guilt. Whatever keeps her here, we must resolve the situation. Free her soul..."\n\n<<set $man = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2spirits_why_stop_the_fight to true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn_top>>

<<set $ch2crypt_alcove_look to true>>\s\n<<if not $ch2complete_alcoves>>\s\nThree alcoves are spaced evenly along the walls. <<if $ch2bow>>The first alcove holds a golden bow. <<else>>The first alcove is empty. <<endif>><<if $ch2horn>>The second alcove holds a jeweled drinking horn. <<else>>The second alcove is empty. <<endif>><<if $elspeth_sword eq "elspeth">>The third alcove holds an elegant sword. <<else>>The third alcove is empty. <<endif>>\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2marian_alcove>>\s\n"These are gifts for the dead," Marian whispers. "They are meant to support the fallen in the afterlife."\n\n<<set $ch2marian_alcove = true>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2torch>>\s\nThere is also an unlit torch in a bracket on the wall.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt_alcove1>>

You race for the ruins, amidst sweeping winds and the howls of the damned. The Sheriff's huntsmen take on a fearsome cast behind you, their horses growing drawn and skeletal. As you reach the hill, your pursuers break off.\n\n<<set $ch2_sheriff_pursuit = true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits>>

<<set $bounty += 1500>>\s\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<display The_house_is_lost>>\n\n<<if not $renown_explanation>>\s\n<<display renown_explanation>>\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<display ch2spirits_return_to_john>>

<<set $ch2johnquestions_do_you_live_here_by = true>>\s\n"Most times," he looks away towards the forest. "But it'd be grand to walk into those woods one day and leave the bridges and tolls behind. No sense in it, of course — a job's a job — but this is no life."\n\n<<set $dream = true>>\s\n<<set $personal++>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_personal_questions>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1000>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\nYou take the guard by surprise and he falls with a thump. Quickly, you strip him of his weapons, and reach for his horse, but the beast shies away, teeth snapping. A warhorse; you don’t have time to bring it to heel.\n\nYou shoulder your newfound bow and sword and jog into the night. The sky is smoke black at your back, shot red with devouring flames that fall upon only home you’ve ever known.\n\n[[The night passes...|the_night_passes]]\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 25>>\s\nYou kick the door wide open, ready for trouble.\n\n<<display In_the_study>>

<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<set $start_robert to true>>\s\n<<set $start_lodging++>>\s\nIt takes many hours of riding, but you finally arrive at the Castle of Earl Robert Fitzhugh. His seneschal informs you that Earl Robert is not home at the moment, and that the Sheriff has issued a warrant for your arrest. Naturally, you were never here in the first place, and should take any food and weapons you require before making haste from these lands.\n\n<<if $men gt 0>>\s\n[[“There are refugees on the road behind me. Can you help them?”|There_are_refugees_on_the_road_behind]]\n[[I hold my tongue and accept the senechal's gifts.|Robert_furnished]]\n<<else>>\s\n<<display Robert_furnished>>\n<<endif>>\s

"I'm going to leave now." Guy begins packing his belongings. "I can’t promise never to return, nor to speak our encounter to the Sheriff. But you have my respect, Locksley."\n\nYou and Guy part ways. Unimpeded by his hounds, you move deeper into the forest.\n\n<<set $guy = "honored">>\s\n<<set $church_perk++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 250>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 68>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "10 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $men -=1>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 2500>>\s\n<<display We_move_hall_by_hall>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

"I am," Elspeth shouts in your head. "A commander is responsible for her troops. It must be so. The crime was theirs in doing and mine for not stopping them."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_redemption>>

<<if $ch2complete_alcoves>>\s\n<<display elspeth_intervenes_in_capture>>\n<<elseif $ch2bearfriend>>\s\n<<display bedivere_intervenes_in_capture>>\n<<else>>\s\nYour hands are bound and you're marched away under the huntsmens' watchful eye.\n\n[[In a few days, you'll reach Nottingham, and the noose.|ch2captured]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2spirits_i_insist_unless_you_want to true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_explanation>>

You leap, falling into a deep gorge, and the icy river closes over <<if $ch1river>>your head for the second time<<else>>your head<<endif>>.\n\nThe hounds skid to a stop at the top of the gorge, barking furiously. \n\n<<display ch1_too_tired>>\n\n<<set $wolf = true>>\s\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<set $elsa_present = true>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\n<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 60>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "11 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

<<set $start_horse to false>>\s\n<<set $horse_to_allison to true>>\s\n"Holiday’s a good name," the milkmaid takes a shine to him immediately and brings over a basket of carrots.\n\n<<display Food_from_farm>>

"Begging your pardon, <<print $much_nickname>>," Much says. "But we can't swim."\n\n<<set $ch2_pool_men = true>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_pool_start>>

<<if not $gold_explanation>>\n<<set $gold_explanation to true>>\n@@color:green;You have just gained some gold. As the currency of the realm, gold can be exchanged for goods and services. Gold is also the measure of any raw resources you have at your disposal. Spend it wisely.@@\n<<endif>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<display To_the_graveyard>>\n\n<<display renown_explanation>>

<<set $ch2_location = "ruins">>\n<<set $refugees = 0>>\n<<set $questions = 0>>\n<<if $ch2time lte 0>>\n<<display ch2sheriff>>\n<<elseif ($ch2_daylight lte 0)>>\n<<display ch2spirits>>\n<<else>>\n<<display ch2ruins_start>>\n<<endif>>

Marian nods. "It's risky, but I've been thinking the same thing. I'll share my thoughts in a minute; I want your opinions first."\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

"So it boils down to money. With money, we become famous or powerful." Marian's silent for a time. "I have a little, gems sown into my skirts. It's a start."\n\n<<set $gold += 1000>>\s\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_sleep>>

You have ridden the fields of Jerusalem! No mere goat can challenge you.\n\nThe goat's tag says her name is //Moxie//. Moxie leaps into action and together you race helter-skelter across the hill. Back and forth you run, the woman's voice playing tricks with the wind and yet there's no sight of the woman herself. Then Moxie comes to a sudden stop, and you fly over her head.\n\nYou pick yourself up off the ground in front of a hidden hollow. A young, blond-haired shepherdess sits in the hollow. An enormous stone slab blocks her escape.\n\nMarian joins you a moment later. "Robin," she laughs. "I've never seen anyone ride a goat with such…" She giggles. "Grace and..." She giggles again. "Aplomb!"\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_found>>

<<set $ch2quest_complete = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_horn_return>>

<<if $ch2rescue>>\s\n<<display ch2sheriff_nocross>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2sheriff_catch>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $guy = "cursed">>\s\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_naked>>

"A monarch should have a mighty retinue." Little John looks unconvinced. "Where's your proof?"\n\n<<display ch2johnquestions_royal_affair>>\s

Black, leaden clouds scud across the sky overtop the knoll. The setting sun casts old, red shadows through the ruins. There’s a woman in armor, kneeling in prayer amongst the ruddy stones.\n\n[[I stride up to the knight.|ch2spirits_i_stride_up_to_the]]\n[[I watch what will come from a safe distance. This should be some show.|ch2spirits_i_watch_what_will_come]]\n[[This has the feeling of strangeness, and I want no part of it. Quickly, back to the river crossing.|ch2spirits_this_has_the_feeling_of]]

[[The evening wears on...|The_evening_wears_on]]

Nocked! True Tales of Robin Hood

[[Now’s my chance to escape.|Now_is_my_chance_to_escape]]\n[[I ambush the guards while their backs are turned.|I_ambush_the_guards]]\n[[This is where the household silver is kept. I break the lock and shovel as much as I can into a sack.|This_is_where_the_household_silver]]

"It’s pretty amazing, when you think about it." Marian gives you a leg up a steep rock face, and you give her hand up in return. "How you and I, of all the people terrorized by the Sheriff and his men, managed to escape." She looks around. The forest is calm, quiet but for wind whistling through the trees. "Well, amazing for you. Me, I had too much help and no reason for it."\n\n[[“Don’t belittle others' choices.” I pause. “Who were they, and what happened?”|ch1interlude_marian_belittle]]\n[[“Not that amazing. I had help from Friar Tuck, an old family friend.”|ch1interlude_marian_tuck]]\n[[“Plenty of reasons, Marian. To begin, you have a pretty face...”|ch1interlude_marian_flirt]]

<<set $ch2_location = "defile">>\s\n<<if $ch2time lte 0>>\s\n<<display ch2sheriff>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>\n<<endif>>\s

"I've raised Sir Bedivere since he was a cub. Kindly apologize, and he'll do the same."\n\n[[“Alright, Sir Bedivere, I'm sorry.”|ch2dinner_alright_sir_bedivere_im_sorry]]\n[[I remain silent|ch2dinner_i_remain_silent]]

[[I pass the bear a bit of meat.|ch2dinner_i_pass_the_bear_a_of]]\n[[I don't feed animals from the dinner table.|ch2dinner_i_dont_feed_animals_from_dinner]]

<<set $start_ID = "">>\n<<set $start_serf += (($start_stealth * 1.5) + ($start_gold)) + ($start_clever * 2)>>\n<<set $start_yeoman += (($start_stealth + $start_clever) + ($start_attack + $start_nature)) + $start_magic>>\n<<set $start_crusader += (($start_leadership) + ($start_faith * 2) + ($start_attack * 1.5) + ($start_gold))>>\n<<set $start_noble += (($start_diplomacy) + ($start_leadership) + ($start_attack) + ($start_nature))>>\n<<set $start_royal += (($start_diplomacy * 1.5) + ($start_leadership * 2) + ($start_gold) + ($start_magic))>>\n\n<<if $start_serf gt $start_yeoman>>\n<<set $start_yeoman = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_serf = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_serf gt $start_crusader>>\n<<set $start_crusader = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_serf = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_serf gt $start_noble>>\n<<set $start_noble = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_serf = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_serf gt $start_noble>>\n<<set $start_noble = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_serf = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_serf gt $start_royal>>\n<<set $start_royal = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_serf = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n\n<<if $start_yeoman gt $start_crusader>>\n<<set $start_crusader = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_yeoman = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_yeoman gt $start_noble>>\n<<set $start_noble = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_yeoman = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_yeoman gt $start_royal>>\n<<set $start_royal = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_yeoman = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n\n<<if $start_crusader gt $start_noble>>\n<<set $start_noble = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_crusader = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_crusader gt $start_royal>>\n<<set $start_royal = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_crusader = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n\n<<if $start_noble gt $start_royal>>\n<<set $start_royal = 0>>\n<<else>>\n<<set $start_noble = 0>>\n<<endif>>\n\n<<if $start_serf gt 0 >>\n<<set $start_identity = "a serf from Lord Locksley's farm.">>\n<<set $start_serf_ID = true>>\n<<elseif $start_yeoman gt 0>>\n<<set $start_identity = "that yeoman, who owns the Locksley farm.">>\n<<set $start_yeoman_ID = true>>\n<<elseif $start_crusader gt 0>>\n<<set $start_identity = "Squire Locksley, lately escaped from prison in Jerusalem and King Richard’s Crusade.">>\n<<set $start_crusader_ID = true>>\n<<elseif $start_noble gt 0 and not $start_female>>\n<<set $start_identity = "Lord of Locksley; I heard the Sheriff seized your lands just the other day.">>\n<<set $start_noble_ID = true>>\n<<elseif $start_noble gt 0 and $start_female>>\n<<set $start_identity = "Lady of Locksley; I heard the Sheriff seized your lands just the other day.">>\n<<set $start_noble_ID = true>>\n<<elseif $start_royal gt 0 and not $start_female>>\n<<set $start_identity = "Prince Locksley, rightful heir to the throne of England. Your father was the late Henry the Younger, Richard's older brother. It was an open secret at court that you were fostered out to the Locksley farm.">>\n<<set $start_royal_ID = true>>\n<<elseif $start_royal gt 0 and $start_female>>\n<<set $start_identity = "Princess Locksley, rightful heir to the throne of England. Your father was the late Henry the Younger, Richard's older brother. It was an open secret at court that you were fostered out to the Locksley farm.">>\n<<set $start_royal_ID = true>>\n<<elseif $start_identity is "" and not $start_female>>\n<<set $start_identity = "Lord of Locksley; I heard the Sheriff seized your lands just the other day.">>\n<<elseif $start_identity is "" and $start_female>>\n<<set $start_identity = "Lady of Locksley; I heard the Sheriff seized your lands just the other day.">>\n<<endif>>\n\n<<set $marian_present = true>>\n<<if $ch1river>>\n<<display ch1marian_river_rescue>>\n<<elseif $marian is "outlaw">>\n<<display ch1marian_outlaw>>\n<<elseif $marian is "noble">>\n<<display ch1marian_noble>>\n<<else>>\n<<display ch1marian_magic>>\n<<endif>>

<<display ch2spirits_death>>

Bedivere's claw catches you off-guard and knocks you to the ground.\n\n<<display ch2cave_bear_fail>>

"Good question. Let's see what the future holds."\n\n<<display ch1_magicdinner_plan>>

<<set $tax_raid = 1>>\n<<set $display_tax_raid = 1>>\n<<set $imp_difficulty = true>>\n<<display prologue_start>>

<<if $ch2defile gt 1>>\s\n<<set $ch2_delay = true>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2defile eq 2>>\s\nMarian runs her hands through her hair. "I think we've done all we can here, Robin. Come on, let's go."\n\n<<display ch2travel>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display defile_options>>\n<<endif>>\s

@@color:green;You'll need as much renown as possible to win over the nobility. Any Political Influence you've gathered thus far will be used in your favor.@@

[[I check every step on my way to the cave.|ch2waterfall_i_check_every_step_on]]\n[[Maybe I don't have time to explore the cave right now.|ch2waterfall_maybe_i_dont_have_time]]\n<<if $ch2cave_walk eq "">>\s\n[[I bound over the rocks. There's no time to waste.|ch2waterfall_i_bound_over_the_rocks]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2cave_walk eq "tried">>\s\n[[I race over the rocks to the cave, with just a little more care.|ch2waterfall_i_race_over_the_rocks]]\n<<endif>>\s

Guy throws himself off his horse and your arrow sails over his shoulder. "Have at thee!" He’s upon you with astounding speed. His blade rings against yours like the tolling of Sunday bells and he kicks out, knocking you to the ground. You kick back dirt and gravel into his face.\n\nSuddenly, Guy lets his sword drop from his hands. Marian is by the fallen hound, her dagger across its throat.\n\n<<display ch1_morning_capture>>

<<if not $battle_information>>\n<<set $battle_information to true>>\n@@color:green;You and the Black Wolf bandits battle for possession of the dragon's cave and all of Sherwood Forest! Your @@@@color:yellow;Attack Strength@@@@color:green; represents your chances of driving the bandits from Sherwood Forest. Your @@@@color:yellow;Defense Strength@@@@color:green; represents the possibility that the bandits will not reach the cave.@@\n<<endif>>

Your eyes track across the landscape, watching for signs of the Sheriff’s men. There, a flash of white against the cerulean sky. A horse with a sparkling horn that rises from its forehead grazes on a nearby hilltop.\n\n[[A unicorn! I approach cautiously.|I_approach_the_beast]]\n[[The world is full of wonders, but I have practical matters which need attending.|but_I_have_practical_matters_which_need_attending]]

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<display Split_up_men>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\nYou sneak along the edge of the graveyard, careful to avoid those places where shadows pool and unnatural lights flicker just beyond your sight. Then, suddenly, the light of a normal lamp. <<display grave_guard_options>>

"You’re too kind, Robin." Rosalind’s shrugs. "You have something about you. A sense that your actions become something greater; your decisions become deeds. I have no such presence or skill. I mean, I can sew, and I have some knowledge of healing herbs… And I am a lousy lady's maid." That last is said in a whisper so soft you barely catch its meaning.\n\n<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\n[[“Any time you want a lesson, just find me. You, too, can do great things.”|ch1interlude_ros_findme]]\n[[I pretend not to have heard Rosalind’s comment.|ch1interlude_pretend]]\n[[“Excuse me.” I lengthen my stride catch up to Marian.|ch1interlude_excuse]]

Little John raises an eyebrow and lifts a quarterstaff in his hands. "You and what army?"\n\nMarian glances at the sun. "This area is large, Robin, and just about everything takes time. We need to be careful the Sheriff doesn't catch up to us."\n\n<<set $dinner = false>>\s\n<<set $marian_advice = 0>>\s\n<<set $ch2_location = "crossing">>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

Marian’s there, \n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\nsending arrow after arrow into the hound’s flank.\n<<endif>>\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\nfacing down the hound, your sword in hand.\n<<endif>>\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\nfacing down the hound, a ball of fire cradled in her palms.\n<<endif>>

A pair of whip-thin hounds, black as a pit, slip out of blood and smoke. The hounds rush past you, their fiery jaws close over Elspeth's arms. She screams, and her scream echoes through your mind long after she's dragged away into the depths of the earth.

You leap, fall into a deep gorge, the icy river closes over <<if $ch1river>>your head for the second time.<<else>>your head.<<endif>>\n\nThe hounds skid to a stop at the top of the gorge, barking furiously. They’re joined by a man in red, a feather in his hat. The man looks down from his horse and calms the hounds with a word.\n\n"Locksley!" Guy of Gisborne calls after you as you float away. "Marian. You’ll pay for hurting my hounds. We’ll meet again!" \n\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1500>>\s\n<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 68>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "10 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

Bedivere roars and rears up on his hind legs. He looks angry.\n\n[[I attack!|ch2cave_battle]]\n[[I wait for the bear to make the first move.|ch2cave_talk]]\n<<if $purple_nightcap gt 0>>\s\n[[I toss a purple nightcap mushroom at the bear's face.|ch2cave_i_toss_a_purple_nightcap]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2crypt_i_look_around_the_room to true>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt_alcove_look>>

Your scouts return promptly.\n\n"Downriver, the trail dips sharply as the river hits a series of rapids. There was a waterfall, and what looks like some kind of cave or passage behind the falls." The downriver scout scratches his head. "We didn't see any kind of a decent crossing though."\n\n"Upriver there's the ruin of an old fort in the middle of the small meadow. The ground level of the fort's a bit tumbledown, but there was a basement level that seemed in good condition...at least from a distance. There were also a couple goats grazing in the meadow, though we didn't see the shepherd."\n\n<<set $ch2scouts = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

[[“You’re not so bad looking yourself, for a miller’s son.”|ch1interlude_much_goodlooking]]\n[[“I’m also the only other woman in the band of a dozen men, and Marian is well beyond your reach.”|ch1interlude_much_marianout]]\n[[“I know, Much.” I brush him off. “Thank you for reminding me.”|ch1interlude_much_brushoff]]

"Robin," a maid sits in one corner. Three others are huddled nearby. "What are you doing here? The guards, they’re coming back."\n\n[[“I’m getting you out of here. Let’s go.”|I’m_getting_you_out_of_here]]\n[[I need to search the study. There are valuable documents here. “Make for the kitchen.”|I_need_to_search_the_room_maids]]\n<<if $start_lockpick>>\s\n[[“I’m laying a trap.” I stand behind the door, sword drawn.|Im_laying_a_trap]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[“I hear the guards. Wait here.”|I_hear_the_guards]] \n<<endif>>\s

<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $men to 0>>\s\nBefore anyone has the chance to say goodbye, you are away and over the hills. There is sunlight yet, and you have things to do.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

Wolf's hackles rise, and he growls deep in his throat.\n<<set $ch2cave_entrance = true>>\s\n\n[[“What is it, Wolf?”|ch2cave_what_is_it_wolf]]\n[[“If you're scared of the dark, we'll meet you back at the pool. Go on, now.”|ch2cave_if_you're_scared_of_the]]\n[[I pat Wolf on the head. “It's okay, boy.”|ch2cave_i_pat_wolf_on_the]]

She smiles. "I like your spirit, Robin. The answer is training, plain and simple. When some of these men arrived, they barely knew which end of a dagger was sharp. We're getting there, but I can't help thinking we're moving too slow."\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

"Locksley!" You hear Guy's scream, full of anger and grief, trail after you through the trees. "I'll make you pay for this!"\n\n<<set $wolf_alive = true>>\s\n<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<set $bounty += 2500>>\s\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n<<set $ch2time = 68>>\s\n<<set $ch2_clock = "10 am.">>\s\n<<display ch1interlude>>

[[You forge your way deeper into the forest.|You_forge_your_way_deeper_into_the_forest]]

"All right, ladies." A pair of guards saunters into the room. "We promised you your turn."\n\nYou’re fast. The guards are dead before they hit the floor.\n\n<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1000>>\s\n<<set $renown += 175>>\s\n<<display Fire_in_the_study>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

[[“Where am I?”|ch1marian_where_am_i]]\n[[“Actaeon?”|ch1marian_actaeon]]

<<display ch2crypt_coffin>>

"I am a lady in need, Little John. My father, the Earl of Woodbridge, has historically claimed these lands as his own. Your help in preserving his only daughter's safety would not go unrewarded. A knighthood, perhaps? A gift of this river passage and all you can see in perpetuity? What say you?"\n\n<<set $john_argument -= 100>>\s\n<<set $ch2johnquestions_i_signal_marian_she_should to true>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_argument_continues>>

<<if not $ch2bearfriend>>\s\n[[I rub the bear's tummy.|ch2cave_i_rub_the_bears_tummy]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I walk out past the bear.|ch2cave_i_walk_out_past_the]]\n[[I wait for the bear to fall asleep, then sneak out.|ch2cave_i_wait_for_the_bear_fall]]\n<<if not $ch2bearfriend>>\s\n[[“Hey, Bedivere? That's a good boy. How are you?”|ch2cave_hey_bedivere_thats_a_good_how]]\n<<endif>>\s

"Ye make good argument, I'll grant you that." Little John looks across the river. "But words don't add up to a hill o' beans in this crazy world. It'll be 5,000 gold if you want to cross."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

"The trouble is, I'm not sure I believe that myself." Marian sighs.\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<display I_leap_from_the_window>>

<<set $start_food to false>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\nThe bandits, taken aback by your sudden appearance, aren’t ones to let opportunity pass. Recognizing in you a fellow ne’er-do-well, you engage in a spate of spirited dickering. The bandits come away with more of your food than you’d like, but in return you now have a shoddy sword, a nicked dagger, and an ill-strung bow.\n\nThe merchant, ignored in all of this, approaches. <<display thanks_of_devon>>

"The hounds wake to the night. They bring my soul to heel. My time is nigh."\n\n<<set $ch2spirits_whats_going_to_happen_2 to true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_top_free_spirit>>

The horizon calls, cold and clear.\n\n<<display top_level_choices>>

It works in all the stories! The rope is too heavy for the arrow to carry any distance. You feel the ground disappear beneath your feet —\n\n<<display ch2defile_falling>>

"Maybe I am. And she's late." He paces back and forth along the riverbank. "I'll tell you what: Head upriver to the old ruins. There's a shepherdess who often grazes her flocks in that area. We were supposed to meet for breakfast, but she's several hours late and I can't leave my post. If you find her, find out how she's doing, you can pass free of charge."\n<<set $ch2_john_question2 = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "lost">>\s\n\n[[“I'll keep an eye out.”|ch2johnquestions_ill_keep_an_eye_out]]\n[[“If there's time, but we really need to cross.”|ch2johnquestions_if_there's_time_but_we]]

<<set $I_take_refuge_in_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest to true>>\s\nHaunted or not, Sherwood will offer you safety from the Sheriff — if it doesn’t kill you by other means. Given time, you may even find means to strike back against the Sheriff for what he has done. <<if $men gt 0>>Your people shake their heads and turn away to find another life. You hear some mutter //crazy// and //daft//. Anna, alone, watches you until you're out of sight.<<set $men = 0>><<endif>>\n\n<<if $start_day eq 0>>\s\n<<display unicorn_sighting>>\n\n<<elseif $start_day eq 1>>\s\n<<display wolf_sighting>>\n\n<<else>>\s\n<<display start_day_3>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\nYou pick the little bonnets by their stems and manage to get enough spring bonnet for several healing poultices.\n\n<<set $spring_bonnet += 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2_mushrooms = "picked">>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>\s

"Would you take my spirit unto you willingly, and so throw yourself against the might of the blackest villain this land has ever seen?"\n\n[[“Come unto me, spirit.”|ch2spirits_come_unto_me_spirit__2]]\n[[“No.”|ch2spirits_no_2]]

<<print $possessed>> draws her sword.\n\nThe Sheriff levels his lance at <<print $possessed>>. <<print $possessed>> has no shield, no horse, and her weapon is less than half the length. She has no chance—\n\nSo smooth it looks choreographed, so quick you almost miss it, <<print $possessed>> rolls beneath the lance and under the horse's charge, slices the girth strap, and returns to her feet.\n\nThe Sheriff pinwheels his arms as his saddle slowly slides sideways, and he topples to the ground.\n\n<<print $possessed>> leaps to his side and raises her sword.\n\n<<if $spirit_strength lte 0>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength = 25>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $renown gte $spirit_strength>>\s\n[[“Stop!”|ch2spirits_possessed_stop]] (<<print $spirit_strength>> renown)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;“Stop!” (<<print $spirit_strength>> renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2complete_alcoves>>\s\n[[“Elspeth, as I restored your tomb, I command you to stop!”|ch2spirits_elspeth_as_i_restored_your]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I try to intercept the sword before it falls.|ch2spirits_lost_soul]]\n[[That’s the Sheriff! I hold my tongue and let the spirit kill him.|ch2spirits_thats_the_sheriff_i_hold]]

<<set $grace += $peasant_perk>>\s\n<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "rescued">>\s\nYou and Marian anchor the rope. With a little effort, Allison manages to pull herself over the stone and out of the hollow.\n\n"Thank you so much!" Allison gives you both big hugs. "I need to go see Little John before it gets too late. He's probably terribly worried!"\n\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<if $questions lt 4>>\s\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if $marian_action eq "outlaw">>\s\n"<<print $much_nickname>>?" Much emerges from the ruins. "We found this here breastplate, all lacquered black, with a hole in the chest. I reckon someone wearing black and all were killed here. Sword through the heart." He scratches his neck. "Just that, under it all, the armor's got the same griffon crest as that spirit knight."\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 200>>\s\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian_action eq "noble">>\s\nLittle John lumbers up the knoll, Marian running behind him. "’Tis bad business that happened up here, Robin." He shouts. "The Dame of the Tower led the sack o’ Camelot, slew the Black Knight when he came after her, an then threw herself from the tower battlements." He tsks. "Bad business, I say, to do it again."\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 200>>\s\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian_action eq "magic">>\s\n"Robin!" Marian raises her head from her books. "Oh, dear. This is a blood curse. One way or another, our presence means it's about to be fulfilled. I can't break it, but," her eyes blaze with light. "I can help you direct the resolution."\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 200>>\s\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian_action eq "support">>\s\n"I'm here, Robin." Marian calls. "Don't forget. I'm here!"\n\nYou take heart at her words.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Die, Sheriff.” I bring the sword down.|ch2spirits_die_sheriff_i_bring_the]]\n[[I pause. “Elspeth, any last words?”|ch2spirits_i_pause_elspeth_any_last]]

<<if $ch2crypt_i_look_around_the_room>>\s\n<<if not $ch2torch>>\s\n[[I take the torch.|ch2crypt_alcove_torch]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2bow and not $ch2complete_alcoves>>\s\n[[I take the bow.|ch2crypt_i_take_the_bow]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2bow and $elspeth_bow>>\s\n[[I replace the bow in its alcove.|ch2crypt_i_replace_the_bow_in]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2horn and not $ch2complete_alcoves>>\s\n[[I take the horn.|ch2crypt_i_take_the_horn]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2horn and $elspeth_horn>>\s\n[[I replace the horn in its alcove.|ch2crypt_i_replace_the_horn_in]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($elspeth_sword eq "elspeth") and not $ch2complete_alcoves>>\s\n[[I take the sword.|ch2crypt_i_take_the_sword]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2sword and ($elspeth_sword eq "robin")>>\s\n[[I return the sword to its alcove.|ch2crypt_i_return_the_sword_to]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2sword and ($elspeth_sword eq "marian")>>\s\n[[“Marian, will you return the sword to the alcove? I think it belongs here.”|ch2crypt_marian_will_you_return_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2crypt_i_look_around_the_room>>\s\n[[I look around the room.|ch2crypt_i_look_around_the_room]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I examine the coffin.|ch2crypt_i_examine_the_coffin_2]]\n[[Let the dead rest. I return to the surface.|ch2crypt_let_the_dead_rest_i]]

You feel a deep sigh, and a strong sense of peace.\n\n<<set $ch2horn = true>>\s\n<<set $elspeth_horn = false>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

<<if $ch1_guy_question eq 3>>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_farewell>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display guy_parley_questions>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if $ch2cross>>\s\n[[“I'm ready to cross the river.”|ch2crossing_leave]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $john_not_crossing_with_robin and not $ch2cross>>\s\n[[“I'm ready to cross the river.”|ch2johnquestions_leave3]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_john_question1>>\s\n[[“Who are you?”|ch2johnquestions_who_are_you]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_john_question1 and $personal lt 4>>\s\n[[“I have a couple other questions for you.”|ch2jq_more_personal_questions]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2quest and ($ch2cross or $john_not_crossing_with_robin) and $elspeth_horn and not $ch2quest_complete>>\s\n[[“Do you still want this drinking horn?”|ch2crossing_extra_horn]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess eq "late")>>\s\n[[“You're expecting a guest, aren't you?”|ch2johnquestions_you're_expecting_a_guest_arent]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess eq "trapped")>>\s\n[[“I found a shepherdess trapped up on that hill.”|ch2johnquestions_i_found_a_shepherdess_trapped]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2cross and not $john_not_crossing_with_robin>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_john_diplomacy>>\s\n[[I try to convince John of our urgency. “Please, you must let us pass.”|ch2johnquestions_please_you_must_let_us]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($gold gte 5000)>>\s\n[[“I have the money. Let me pass.”|ch2crossing_paid]] (5000 gold)\n<<elseif $gold lt 5000>>\s\n@@color:red;“I have the money. Let me pass.” (5000 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2quest and not $elspeth_horn>>\s\n[[“Tell me again about that drinking horn.”|ch2crossing_horn_again]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2quest and $elspeth_horn>>\s\n[[“Here is the drinking horn.”|ch2crossing_here_is_the_drinking_horn]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2dinner and ($purple_nightcap gt 0)>>\s\n[[I sprinkle the purple nightcap into our food and invite Little John to eat.|ch2johnquestions_i_sprinkle_the_purple_nightcap]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if (($ch2_john_treasure eq "found") and not $ch2john_join)>>\s\n[[“We found your treasure, John. Join us.”|ch2johnquestions_we_found_your_treasure_john]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2goats eq "follow")>>\s\n[[I unleash the goats.|ch2crossing_goats_attack]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I get ready to fight my way past Little John.|ch2crossing_fight_options]]\n<<if not $ch2_marian_advice>>\s\n[[I ask Marian for her advice.|ch2crossing_advice]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_barter and not $ch2barter_talk>>\s\n[[“5,000 gold is a lot of money. Would you take payment in kind?”|ch2crossing_barter_once]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2barter_talk>>\s\n[[“Let's barter.”|ch2crossing_barter_again]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $much_present and not $ch2scouts>>\s\n[[I send my men exploring up and downriver.|ch2crossing_scouts_mission]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I explore the area on this side of the river.|ch2travel]]\n\n<<display purchase_explanation>>

"And I cannot take you at your word," Little John replies.\n\n<<set $ch2johnquestions_i_will_not_give_up to true>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_convince_me>>

Five men step forward and volunteer to hold off the Sheriff's men. "Begging your pardon, Robin, but if you and Marian are captured the resistance ends. We'll hold back the huntsmen if that's what it takes."\n\n[[“No. No one gets left behind, and that's final.”|ch2defile_no_no_one_gets_left]]\n[[“As you will, but let's help you get set up.”|ch2defile_as_you_will_but_lets]]\n[[“Go, and godspeed.”|ch2defile_go_and_godspeed]]

"Well, we've been nearly neighbors our entire lives. I'm simply embarrassed we've never met in person." <<nobr>>\n\n<<if $start_serf_ID>>\n<<display ch1marian_im_robin_the_sheriffs_men>>\n<<elseif $start_yeoman_ID>>\n<<display ch1marian_im_robin_of_the_locksley>>\n<<elseif $start_crusader_ID>>\n<<display ch1marian_squire_robin_of_locksley_lately>>\n<<elseif $start_noble_ID>>\n<<display ch1marian_im_robin_of_locksley_the>>\n<<elseif $start_royal>>\n<<display ch1marian_i_am_robin_rightful_heir>>\n<<endif>>\n<<endnobr>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 1000>>\s\nYou beat past the guard’s defenses in three swift strokes, leave him dead on the floor next to his fellows.\n\nWait. More guards are coming, too many to fight alone. You grab your sacks and make good your escape.\n\n<<display Smoke>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<set $start_anna to "gold">>\s\n<<set $gold -= 1000>>\s\n"Thank you, Robin. Godspeed." <<display Leaving_Woodbridge>>

<<display ch2travel>>

<<if $john_present>>\s\n"There's plenty more tree left," John points up. "Whenever you're ready."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n"In the morning, please." Marian settles closer to the center of the branch takes a deep breath. "And when I'm not looking."\n\nYou haven't thought of those days in a long time, but the memories of scrabbling through the branches — the rush of fresh air as you crested the canopy — comes of a sudden. That, and Friar Tuck's frantic calls for you to come down.\n\n<<display ch2dinner_dinner>>

The wind distorts sound carried over these hills, but you definitely hear a woman calling for help...somewhere.\n\n<<display ch2ruins_lost>>

"Do you?" The girl brightens. "I was supposed to meet him at the river crossing this morning when I got stuck. If only he were here now… He could move this stone without any trouble." She sighs. "He's so strong."\n\n<<set $questions++>>\s\n<<set $ch2_allison_question3 = true>>\s\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>

<<set $start_food to true>>\s\n<<set $start_nature++>>\s\n<<set $start_day++>>\s\nYou spend several hours gathering nuts, berries, and edible ferns from among the nearby hills. When you finish, you have enough food to last several days.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

<<if not $ch1_morning_whyhunt>>\s\n[[“Why are you and your hounds hunting me?”|ch1_morning_whyhunt]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch1_morning_money>>\s\n[[“Do you have any money, supplies?”|ch1_morning_money]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“You have your life, leave the forest.”|ch1_morning_farewell]]

Sir Bedivere yawns and sniffs your hand.\n\nJohn glowers, but doesn't push the matter further.\n\n<<if $rosalind_present>>\s\n"I can make a poultice with some mushrooms we found on the way here," Rosalind says. "Sir Bedivere will be right as rain come morning."\n\n"Much appreciated," John growls.\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<display ch2dinner_A>>

"Always." Little John walks out to the middle of the river. "Are you ready for another bath?"\n\n<<display ch2crossing_duel>>

<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing>>

Anna watches your departure, silhouetted against the brazen sky. Then she's gone.\n\n<<if not $safe_departure>>\s\nYou leave Woodbridge’s lands alone, and consider your options.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display time_of_day>>

<<set $tax_raid = 25>>\n<<set $display_tax_raid = 25>>\n<<set $normal_difficulty = true>>\n<<display prologue_start>>

You begin picking all the mushrooms. You manage to get a good sampling of both before one of the purple ones is jostled by your movement. It releases spores into your face and you sneeze, twice. Blink. Blink again...\n\nMarian's calling your name, but you're just so sleepy...\n\n"Robin? Robin!" Marian's face swims into view. "Thank goodness you're awake. You fell over asleep into the mushrooms and crushed them. I couldn't do anything to wake you up. You were unconscious for about an hour."\n\n<<set $purple_nightcap++>>\s\n<<set $spring_bonnet++>>\s\n<<set $ch2_mushrooms = "picked">>\s\n<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

You finish your meat before the bear can even think of getting close. Little John laughs and refills your plate.\n\n<<display ch2dinner_A>>

"Perhaps," Marian looks longingly at the treasure. "With this wealth he could buy a title, lands, servants... He's in no danger from the Sheriff, Robin. Join us? Why would Little John join us?"\n\n[[“For love of Sherwood. Until now, the forest has been the preserve of the king. Prince John and the Sheriff love easy money more than the benefits of a managed forest. They will use it up for industry and settlement.”|ch2cave_for_love_of_sherwood_until]]\n[[“For love of freedom. Prince John and the Sheriff see enemies in Richard's legacy. Little John was appointed to his post by the king. That simple fact condemns him in their eyes.”|ch2cave_for_love_of_freedom_prince]]\n[[I remain silent, and study the room.|ch2cave_i_remain_silent_and_study]]

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 2500>>\s\n<<display We_move_hall_by_hall>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

Your route away from the house takes you to the edge of the graveyard. Plain headstones mix with Viking standing stones and gracious monuments to Celtic chieftains of yore. Strange lights and sounds echo from this place after dark; no one comes here at night.\n\n[[I’m not afraid of ghosts. I plunge through the graveyard, through the deepest shadows to avoid detection.|Through_the_graveyard]]\n[[I skirt the edge of the graveyard and keep an eye on the Sheriff’s patrols.|skirt_the_edge]]\n<<if not $escape_from_church>>\s\n[[I turn to the stables. A horse will speed my escape.|I_leap_from_the_window_clever]]\n<<endif>>\s

"Let's." Marian takes your arm and chuckles. "We'll manage somehow, far from bake sales and sewing circles."\n\n<<set $female = true>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_dinner>>

The cave twists along a well-traveled path. Sections of wall have been polished and painted, others are hung with elegant tapestries, and the floor is swept clean of dirt and clear of rubble.\n\nAround the corner, the roaring waterfall fades to a low thrum, and you are treated to a vision of splendor. A sumptuous four poster bed dominates a wide chamber, surrounded by chests overflowing with silver and jewels, silks and lace.\n\n<<if ($marian eq "outlaw")>>\s\n"Wait'll the men see this," Marian whispers, her eyes wide. "He charges 5,000 gold a crossing. Could this… Do you think it belongs to Little John?"\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian neq "outlaw")>>\s\n"He charges 5,000 gold a crossing," Marian whispers. "Could this… Do you think it belongs to Little John?"\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2_john_treasure = "found">>\s\n\n[[“Who cares? Let's fill our packs and get out of here.”|ch2cave_who_cares_lets_fill_our]]\n[[“We'll rob from the rich and give to the poor. Whoever's treasure this is, it makes them very, very rich.”|ch2cave_we'll_rob_from_the_rich]]\n<<if not $ch2cross>>\s\n[[“If it is, and we get Little John to join us, perhaps he'll part with it to help our cause. Leave it alone for now.”|ch2cave_if_it_is_and_we]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“We fight the Sheriff. To steal from Little John, appointed guardian of the river crossing, is wrong.”|ch2cave_we_fight_the_sheriff_to]]

<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\nRosalind nods, her hair a fall of blood in the last light of the sun. "This is crazy, isn’t it?"\n<<set $possessed = "Rosalind">>\s\n\n[[“You can do it.” I squeeze her hands.|ch2spirits_you_can_do_it_i]]\n[[I lean in and give her a quick kiss. “Godspeed.”|ch2spirits_i_lean_in_and_give]]

<<display ch2dinner_sorry>>

Rosalind nods, serious. "I'll do my best."\n\n<<set $spirit_strength -= $ros_romance*100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_transfer>>

<<display ch2start>>

<<set $ch2defile++>>\s\n"Here. Follow my instructions and watch where you step."\n\nYou spend the next twenty minutes drawing symbols in the mud and laying patterns of rocks and sticks across the defile.\n\n"There." Marian claps her hands, and the hair on the back of your neck stands up. "That'll slow them down at least."\n\n<<set $ch2_marian_delay = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2_defile_stop2 = true>>\s\n<<set $gold -= 500>>\s\n<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<display ch2defile_start>>

<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<set $start_lodging++>>\s\n<<set $start_woodbridge to true>>\s\n<<set $start_direction to true>>\s\nYou crest a hill, and Lord Woodbridge's proud fortress comes into view, banners snapping in the wind. You’re about to step from cover, when you realize something is very wrong. The men who patrol the walls have the look of Nottingham about them.\n\nWatching the fortress for a few minutes more, you realize the terrible truth. The Sheriff has struck at Woodbridge. This place is no longer safe. Slowly, you ease out of sight.\n\n<<display time_of_day>>

<<if not $start_food>>\s\n[[I need to find food.|I_need_to_find_food]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if (not $start_weapons) and (not $weapons_found) and (not $bandits_found)>>\s\n[[I need weapons.|I_need_weapons]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($men gte 1) and (not $start_gathering)>>\s\n[[I gather those who followed me through the night. “We need to talk.”|I_gather_those_who_followed_me_through_the_night]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[Distance is my friend. I travel.|Distance_is_my_friend]]\n[[Sherwood beckons, the dark safety of its trees threaded with danger and mystery.|I_take_refuge_in_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest]]\n<<if $renown gt 0 and not $renown_explanation>>\s\n\n<<display renown_explanation>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $gold gt 0 and not $gold_explanation>>\s\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $bounty_explanation>>\s\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2cave_walk = "tried">>\s\nYou cavort, gambol, and leap towards the cave. You're nearly there when your foot slides on a wet stone and you tumble into the water.\n\n<<nobr>>\nMarian\n<<if $much_present>>\nand your men laugh\n<<endif>>\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\nand her ladies-in-waiting laugh\n<<endif>>\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\nlaughs\n<<endif>>\nas you surface.\n<<if $wolf>>\nWolf howls and joins you for a swim.\n<<endif>>\n<<endnobr>>\n\nYou drag yourself out of the water and onto the path.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_cave>>

You reach the bottom, but the sword is stuck under a rock. You pull and tug, shift the rock, but your lungs burn and a dull blackness closes around your vision. You swim desperately for the surface, forced to leave the sword behind.\n\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2dive = true>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_pool_start>>

<<set $start_attack ++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 100>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 250>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $start_cook to true>>\s\nYou grab a pair of kitchen knives and catch the guards by surprise. Two guards, dead as they were about to assault Cook and her scullery maid. You take a sword and bow from one of the dead — barely serviceable, but they'll do.\n\n"Robin," Cook clutches at you. "You’ve got to get out of here while you still can. The guards taunted us. Promised we’d survive the night but only under their protection."\n\n[[“I need to save as many people as possible.”|Split_up_men_alone]]\n[[“I'm going to take back my home, kill any guards I encounter.”|We_move_hall_by_hall_alone]]\n[[“You're right. We need to get out of here.”|Cook_is_right]]\n\n<<if not $renown_explanation>>\s\n<<display renown_explanation>>\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

"It will be the death of Sherwood. Well," Marian resettles her pack across her shoulders. "If Little John loves these woods as much as you, he may be swayed."\n\n<<display ch2cave_bear>>

<<set $marian_advice++>>\s\n<<if $marian_advice eq 3>>\s\nLittle John watches you, patient.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_outlawchoices>>\n<<endif>>\s

Cook and Anna are in the kitchen, a bag of supplies at their feet. Bill, one of the stable hands, has a group of children gathered by his feet. <<if $start_stable>>"The others didn’t make it, Robin. I’m sorry."<<endif>>\n\nYou gather the survivors and escape into the night. <<display Fire_escape>>

"Suit yourself. I'm not particular, if you have something else to offer. And if you change your mind, you know where to find the horn."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

"And miss the fun?" Wolf whines and growls again at the cave. "I'm just saying I don't like the smell."\n\nWhatever. You don't fear the unknown, you embrace it!\n\n<<display ch2cave_into_cave>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $men -=10>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $Harald_forewarned to true>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\nYou step behind one of the bandits and lay him low. The other bandit wounds several of your men before he drops his weapons and helps his friend back to his feet. "Harald the Grim will hear of this!" he cries, vanishing into the forest. "Attacking the Black Wolves has consequences, it does!"\n\nYou gather the weapons, a nicked sword, a small dagger, and an ill-strung bow. Better than nothing.\n\nThe merchant approaches. <<display thanks_of_devon>>

You consider the road ahead, and places you might go for help or safety.\n\n<<if (not $start_woodbridge)>>\s\n[[I travel to our immediate neighbor, Lord Woodbridge, to ask for assistance.|Woodbridge_alone]]\n<<elseif ($men gt 0) and (not $start_woodbridge)>>\s\n[[I shepherd my followers to Lord Woodbridge. He has always been a friend.|We_must_find_a_new_home]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($start_horse) and (not $start_robert)>>\s\n[[I travel to our distant ally, Robert Fitzhugh.|Robert_Fitzhugh]]\n<<elseif ($start_horse) and (not $start_direction)>>\s\n[[I pick a direction and ride. Once I leave the borders of Nottinghamshire, the Sheriff is no longer my concern.|I_pick_a_direction_and_ride]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($start_day gte 3) or (($start_food) and ($start_weapons) and ($men is 0)) or ($start_direction)>>\s\n[[I fear neither danger nor mystery. To Sherwood!|I_take_refuge_in_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[The road is dark and dangerous. I consider my other options.|The_road_is_dark_and_dangerous]]

<<set $start_children to true>>\s\nA growing heat fills the hallways, and billowing smoke that makes it hard to tell friend from foe. Three guards die by your hand, thinking you their ally. You find the butler, warding the group of children in a storage closet.\n\nFire closes all around, forces you and your charges to the Great Hall, to try your luck with the front door.\n\n<<display Great_Hall_on_fire>>\n\n[[I ignore the Sheriff and lead the children and butler from the hall.|I_lead_the_children]]\n[[“Go!” I push the children towards the door. “Sheriff, we finish this here.”|We_finish_this]]\n[[I cut the rope to the chandelier above the Sheriff’s head.|I_cut_the_rope]]

<<set $start_diplomacy++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 300>>\s\nFather Timothy quickly draws up a note and seals it with his ring of office. "Make your way to our friend and neighbor, Lord Woodbridge. Show him this, and he can give you shelter."\n\n<<display There’s_a_heavy_thumping>>\n\n<<display renown_explanation>>

<<if not $renown_explanation>>\n<<set $renown_explanation to true>>\n@@color:green;You have just gained renown, a measure of your deeds and accomplishments. Both nobles and peasants respect a legend, and you can call on your renown to convince them to action.@@\n<<endif>>

<<set $black_knight_vow = true>>\s\n<<set $start_magic++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 300>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength -= 200>>\s\nThe knight’s armor creaks as he nods his head. "My sister’s bones are buried on a lonely tor, beneath the stones of her ruined tower. She is cursed, and I am bound to that curse as jailer, witness, and victim.\n\n"Find us before the crossing of the waters. Step between the inevitable." He begins to shred in shafts of the rising moon. "And remember, redemption is measured in action, not absolution."\n\nYou move through graveyard unhindered. Then, suddenly, the light of a normal lamp. <<display grave_guard_options>>

That night of fire and blood, when the Sheriff’s men came down like the hounds of hell — well, we didn’t all make it out. I suppose what I’m saying, Robin, is if there’s a chance, Marian’s maid, Rosalind, was taken that night and we need to get her out."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_much_man_talk>>

<<set $start_church to true>>\s\nFather Timothy walks among his congregation. "Fear not, my children. For though the Sheriff does strike against this house, he shall not violate the sanctity of the church. So long as you remain within, you are safe." He notices you. "Robin, I’m glad to see you well." \n\n[[“Father Timothy, can you talk down the Sheriff before this goes too far?”|Father_Timothy_can_you_talk]]\n[[“The Sheriff is after me, though I have done nothing wrong. Can you help me escape?”|Can_you_help_me_escape]]\n[[“We can’t just sit here. We need to organize a resistance.”|We_can’t_just_sit_here]]

She gives you another hug. "Thank you again. I'd better go!" She skips away across the hill and out of sight.\n\n<<display ch2ruins>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $men = 0>>\s\n<<set $start_food to true>>\s\n<<set $gold += 1000>>\s\nYou grab a second sack and fill them with both food and silver. The weight will slow you down, but the added security is worth it.\n\n<<display Too_slow>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $gold += 1000>>\s\nYou fill your sack with plates and silverware. Tighten your belt and escape the Sheriff’s grasp, and you’ll be living high when you reach the next town.\n\n<<display Escape_the_house>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

<<display ch2crypt_leave_coffin>>

"Put our necks out and hope we don't get crushed in the process? Lead by example and trust the serfs and yeomen to grow a backbone? Audacious. I like it."<<set $marian_romance++>>\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinner_sleep>>

"Kill him," Elspeth screams in your mind. "Quickly, before it’s too late."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_fate>>

"Go then." The Black Knight bows low. "There shall be no more violence this night. Go, the crossing is clear. I shall hold this villain here." He takes off his helm and wipes some of the soot from its face. Beneath, the metal is gleaming steel. "Farewell, sister."\n\nElspeth staggers as you run from the knoll. "What have you done," she repeats. "What have you…"\n\nThe unicorn trots up beside you<<if not $elsa_present>>; her flanks are covered in new scars, recently healed<<endif>>. "Lift her to my back." The unicorn's voice chimes like a silver bell. "I shall carry her to a place where she may adapt to her circumstances." She tosses her mane. "The Black Knight’s hold over the Sheriff and his men weakens as the curse ends. Soon they will be free, and you will be surrounded. You must leave without delay."\n\n<<set $renown += 200>>\s\n<<set $grace += $forest_perk>>\s\n<<set $elspeth_present = true>>\s\n<<set $elsa_present = true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_end>>

<<if $marian eq "noble" and not $ch2johnquestions_i_signal_marian_she_should>>\s\n[[I signal Marian. She should speak up.|ch2johnquestions_i_signal_marian_she_should]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“The Sheriff will send an army in here unless he thinks we're dead. Unless we vanish into the Deepwood.”|ch2johnquestions_argument_continues2]]\n[[“We fight for the people of Sherwood. If we're captured, that fight is lost and your world will be turned upside down.”|ch2johnquestions_we_fight_for_the_people]]\n[[“Your toll, your duty means nothing to the Sheriff. He will take your hard-earned money and slap you in irons.”|ch2johnquestions_argument_continues2]]

<<set $start_anna to "letters">>\s\n<<set $renown -= 250>>\s\n"I barely know how to read, Robin. But I will do as you ask, though I shall be more careful in the approach. Godspeed." <<display Leaving_Woodbridge>>

<<set $serf_option to true>>\s\nMarian looks into your eyes. "I won't betray your confidence, but tell me the truth as a favor to my bruised skull."\n\n<<display identity_choices>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 2500>>\s\nThe Sheriff dives backwards as a huge chandelier plummets through the balustrade. A blazing ceiling beam follows moments later in a plume of fire and smoke. The entire house is collapsing in on itself.\n\n"Locksley!" You hear the Sheriff cry as you hustle the children from the hall. "This isn’t over, Locksley!"\n\n<<display Yard_in_chaos>>\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

The riverbank becomes increasingly rocky and difficult to follow, and cliffs rise on the other side for as far as you can see. You will not find a crossing in this direction before the Sheriff's men catch you.\n\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2_waterfall_search = true>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>

"Do I get a goat afterwards?" Wolf licks his chops and bends his nose to the ground. He leads you around the hill to a hidden hollow. A young, blond-haired shepherdess sits in the hollow. An enormous stone slab blocking her escape.\n\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_found>>

<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $silver_cross to true>>\s\n<<set $gold += 500>>\s\n<<set $men = 0>>\s\nYou upend the desk and pull books from the shelves. There, gleaming behind the Bible, the silver cross said to be a gift of Sir Gawain himself.\n\nThe fire’s spread through the house, the hallway is no longer safe. You escape out the window, roll in the soft grass; though the yard is swarming with guards, you’ve yet to be seen. There’s no chance to go back for Cook or the stable hands. Hopefully they’ve already escaped. \n\nBefore anyone notices, you take to the fields, pausing at the crest of the hill for one last look back.\n\n<<display Fire_end>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

Dirty and torn, the men are dressed as peasants. These are no forest wardens.\n\n<<display ch1marian_no_joke>>

A hound drags itself free of the rockslide and collapses to the open ground.\n\nA man in red, a feather in his hat, crest the hill. He saws at the reins of his horse, his eyes wide. "Locksley," he snarls. "Marian. You’ll pay for this."\n\n[[“Not another step, Guy.” I place my dagger against the surviving hound’s neck.|ch1_morning_meetguy_dagger]]\n[[“Have at you, Guy!”|ch1_morning_meetguy_fight]]\n[[“So, you’re guy of Gisborne. Marian, let’s go!”|ch1_morning_meetguy_letsgo]]

"Good. Glad to see you’ve taken to listening to those voices in your head." Wolf barks, for effect. "Either that, or you’re going insane." He veers off your path and vanishes into the forest.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_end_wolf>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $start_poaching to true>>\s\n"Begging your pardon, Robin," Anna says. "But the forest is haunted, cursed."\n\n"And full of bandits," another person says.\n\n"We won’t be going in there. I’m sorry."\n\n<<display food_searching>>

<<set $ch2crossing_whats_the_catch to true>>\s\n"The tomb might be haunted, or cursed. No one's certain, and no one really wants to find out."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_questions2>>

[[I descend the stairs.|ch2ruins_i_descend_the_stairs]]\n[[I don't have time to explore the ruins right now.|ch2ruins_i_dont_have_time_to]]

<<if not $ch2complete_alcoves>>\s\n<<if $ch2bow and ($ch2horn and ($elspeth_sword eq "elspeth"))>>\s\n[[I open the coffin.|ch2crypt_i_open_the_coffin]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2coffin_open>>\s\n[[I try to open the coffin.|ch2crypt_i_try_to_open_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($Marian eq "magic") and not $ch2_tapestry>>\s\n[[“Marian, what your magic tell us of this place?”|ch2crypt_marian_what_your_magic_tell]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I back away from the coffin.|ch2crypt_i_back_away_from_the]]\n[[Let the dead rest. I return to the surface.|ch2crypt_let_the_dead_rest_i_to]]

<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\nThe Sheriff levels his lance at your heart. You have no shield, your weapon is less than half the length. You have no chance —\n\nElsa catches the lance on her horn and forces it wide. You throw yourself from the unicorn's back and carry the Sheriff off his horse. He slams into the ground, the wind knocked from his chest.\n\nYour nemesis, the Black Knight, lies stunned. You raise your sword.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_kill>>

Suddenly, a dozen men emerge from the surrounding brush, daggers drawn.\n\n"Halt, in the name of the king! Lower your hood, poacher."\n\n<<display ch1marian_surrounded>>

<<if not $ch1_nobledinner_didrevolt>>\s\n[[“Stop the Sheriff's men. Show the people that someone out here cares. The people will follow.”|ch1_nobledinner_stopmen]]\n[[“There are mercenaries out there, warriors displaced by the Crusades. With them, we can have an army in no time.”|ch1_nobledinner_money]]\n[[“Rob from the rich, give to the poor. The people will love us when we return what's been taken from them.”|ch1_nobledinner_money]]\n[[“Meet with the nobles. They don't like the Sheriff any more than we do, and they can quickly raise an army if they've something to rally around.”|ch1_nobledinner_nobles]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[“There are mercenaries out there, warriors displaced by the Crusades. With them, we can have an army in no time.”|ch1_nobledinner_money]]\n[[“Rob from the rich, give to the poor. The people will love us when we return what's been taken from them.”|ch1_nobledinner_money]]\n[[“Meet with the nobles. They don't like the Sheriff any more than we do, and they can quickly raise an army if they've something to rally around.”|ch1_nobledinner_nobles]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $men += 3>>\s\n<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $start_stable to true>>\s\nYou find a sword and bow left by that wandering knight, Sir Pellinore, last season — in case he ever arrives without his own, he said. The other stablehands gather scythes and pitchforks.\n\nYour only chance is to take the guards by surprise. You lead your men back to the house and into the kitchens, finish off a pair of guards about to assault Cook and her scullery maid.\n\n"Robin," Cook clutches at you. "You’ve got to get out of here while you still can. The guards taunted us. Promised we’d survive the night but only under their protection."\n\n[[“Split up, men. We need to save as many people as possible.”|Split_up_men_group]]\n[[“We move hall by hall as a unit. Overpower any guards we encounter.”|We_move_hall_by_hall_group]]\n[[“Cook is right. We need to get out of here.”|Cook_is_right]]\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

"But I will," Marian steps forward. "Robin, we can't let this spirit linger here."\n\n<<if $rosalind_present>>\s\n"Marian's right," Rosalind swallows her fear. "I'm here, too, if you think I can help."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_ladies_night>>

"So, here we are. Inseparable companions on this journey." Wolf flicks his ear in your direction, pads out of the forest to your side, his tongue rolling from the side of his mouth. If he were to talk, that is likely what he’d be saying now, you imagine. Because wolves can't talk. "I’m not wrong, am I?" Can they? "Most humans aren’t big on wolves, you understand.<<if $wolf_alive>> Even though you saved me from those hounds, it’s important I have our priorities straight.<<endif>><<if $marian eq "magic">> Now that Marian, with her magic, I bet she understands.<<endif>>" \n\n[[“Absolutely, Wolf. You and I, until the end.”|ch1interlude_wolf_absolutely]]\n[[“Wait a minute. I didn’t think that.”|ch1interlude_wolf_wait]]\n<<if $wolf_alive>>\s\n[[“I helped you. You help me in return.”|ch1interlude_wolf_helped]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\n[[“You're here because of Marian?”|ch1interlude_wolf_marian]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $safe_departure to true>>\s\n<<display Anna_leaving_options>>

"That’s gratitude for you…" You hear, or imagine, Wolf whine.\n\n<<display ch1start_river>>

The sword is cold to touch, and you feel weak when you hold it. You hear a scream.\n\n"Sorry, that was me." Marian looks around, nervous. "Maybe we shouldn't take that again."\n\n<<set $elspeth_sword = "robin">>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

<<set $start_diplomacy++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 25>>\s\n"You would meet swords with words?" The Black Knight looms, scrapes his dull, gray sword free of its cracked scabbard, and advances. "I’ll spit you where you stand, coward."\n\nYou retreat in the face of the Black Knight’s onslaught, no weapons but your wits. Over and around the barrows and solitary standing stones you dodge, weave, and still the knight advances.\n\nHis blade passes inches from your face with an unearthly howl. The slightest touch, the smallest nick, will suck the life from your bones. And then he stops, and so do you; your back against a plank of solid wood. \n\n"Holy ground," he snarls, presses against an invisible barrier. \n\nYou’re up against side door of the church. It falls open at your touch and you tumble inside. "Find me at the lonely tor," the Black Knight’s voice follows you. "I hope we meet again."\n\nYou drag your hair from your face and step into a babble of concern and confusion. <<display Church_intro>>

<<if not $We_are_not_alone_in_the_forest and $gold gte 500>>\s\n[[We are not alone in the forest. I pay a passing pigherd to misdirect any men he encounters.|We_are_not_alone_in_the_forest]] (500 gold)\n<<elseif not $We_are_not_alone_in_the_forest and $gold lt 500>>\s\n@@color:red;We are not alone in the forest. I pay a passing pigherd to misdirect any men he encounters. (500 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $I_lay_several_false_trails_to_confuse_pursuit and $renown gte 50>>\s\n[[I know this forest, and lay several false trails to confuse pursuit.|I_lay_several_false_trails_to_confuse_pursuit]] (50 renown)\n<<elseif not $I_lay_several_false_trails_to_confuse_pursuit and $renown lt 50>>\s\n@@color:red;I am woodswise, and lay several false trails to confuse pursuit. (50 renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $I_send_men_to_scout_ahead and $men gte 5>>\s\n[[I send men to scout ahead, and speed our passage through the forest.|I_send_men_to_scout_ahead]] (5 men)\n<<elseif not $I_send_men_to_scout_ahead and $men lt 5>>\s\n@@color:red;I send men to scout ahead, and speed our passage through the forest. (5 men)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I finish my lunch. We need to keep moving.|We_need_to_keep_moving]]\n\n<<display camp_information>>\n\n<<display purchase_explanation>>

The game trail winds through thickets and fields of large boulders before it cuts steeply downhill. The soft rush of the river changes to a roar as you slide down an embankment and round a jagged outcrop, pushing through screen of ferns to find—\n\n"A waterfall," Marian breathes. "It's beautiful."\n\n<<set $ch2water_walk = true>>\s\n<<display ch2travel_waterfall>>

"That's all I ask." Marian walks into the night. "Good night, Robin."\n\nYou take command of several Merry "Men".\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_end>>

<<display ch2dinner_tuck>>

[[“I would do more for the sake of a pretty girl like yourself.”|ch1interlude_ros_flirt]]\n[[“Nothing you couldn’t have done yourself, if you put your mind to it.”|ch1interlude_ros_diy]]\n[[“You’re welcome.”|ch1_ros_welcome]]

Your race through the night-dark forest. Leaping over a pit, your eyes are tricked by the moonlight and your foot catches on a log. Marian stops to help you up, and suddenly hounds and horses burst through the trees all around. You are surrounded.\n\nThe lead huntsman canters forward and lowers his hood. Curly hair black as coal frames eyes burning with malice.\n\n"Maid Marian, so nice to see you again." The Sheriff of Nottingham almost smiles. He turns to you. "And Locksley as well? Perfect." He signals his men. "Take them, but be gentle. The hangman must have his fun."\n\n[[“You haven't won yet!”|ch2sheriff_you_havent_won_yet]]\n[[“You know who I am?”|ch2sheriff_you_know_who_i_am]]\n[[I search for some means of escape.|ch2sheriff_i_search_for_some_means]]

<<set $ch2crossing_mn_food to true>>\s\n"I'll tell Rosalind and Matilda to prepare themselves as if we were at court. Give the signal when you're ready, Robin."\n\n<<set $ch2dinner = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_noblechoices_top>>

<<if $female>>\s\nThe sword is like a feather in your hands and a comforting presence when sheathed at your side.\n\n<<set $elspeth_sword = "robin">>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>\n<<else>>\s\nThe sword is cold in your hands, probably from being underwater. It'll warm with time.\n\n<<set $elspeth_sword = "robin">>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>\n<<endif>>\s

John listens to your argument, cuts you off halfway through. "I won't join a doomed cause. Actions are louder than words. Prove your fitness by gaining passage across my bridge, and I just may join you."\n\n<<set $ch2john_join = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $men += 4>>\s\n<<set $start_maids to true>>\s\nYou lead the maids back to the kitchen. Smoke fills the hallways, and crackling flames lick at your heels.\n\n<<display Escape_with_maids>>\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

"One step at a time." Marian studies the surrounding forest and picks a direction, seemingly at random but with quiet certainty. "The Friar can do much for us, if he’s willing, but we don’t want to endanger his person or position."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

<<set $ch2spirits_i_watch_what_will_come to true>>\s\nYou realize, suddenly, that Marian is no longer by your side. There, she's there, <<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>striding from the ruins, an unconscious woman — a shepherdess by her dress — in her arms.<<else>>striding from the ruins, a strange look in her eye.<<endif>>\n\n<<set $possessed = "Marian">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_help_ally>>

"Thank you, Robin." Marian takes your arm. "It's been a while since I've had a proper escort."\n\n<<set $male = true>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_dinner>>

Guy is slow and unobservant before his morning tea. You slip unnoticed through the trees to the edge of his camp and swipe his saddlebags.\n\nInside you find food, more tea, and a substantial amount of…\n\n"Gold," Marian whispers, as you tiptoe away through the forest. "Guy must’ve been collecting the local taxes before detouring to hunt you through the forest." She keeps digging through the pack. "There's more... This dog whistle, we can use it to call the hounds back from their hunt."\n\n[[“If we summon the hounds, they'll be on our trail instead. Leave it.”|ch1_guy_sneak_leave]]\n[[“Blow the whistle. If it's the wolf and unicorn who're being hunted... I owe them that much.”|ch1_guy_whistle]]

Rosalind sinks into you; her body shudders once, twice. "I mean, it was only once. Okay, twice," she sniffles. "I don’t even know why I’m telling you all of this, we’ve only just met." She steps away and wipes her eyes. "But what if I’m pregnant? Don’t tell Marian, please! It’ll be a problem later if it’s a problem at all." \n\nYour walk continues in silence.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

"Hello, Robin. I hoped we could have a word." One of Marian’s maids — the younger, with long scarlet tresses — drops back to speak with you. Marian’s forging ahead through the forest, her skirts up around her knees and the other maid fluttering after her, clucking disapprovingly. "I’m Rosalind, by the way. I don’t believe we’ve been properly introduced." \n\n[[“The pleasure’s all mine. Robin, of Locksley.”|ch1interlude_ros_greet]]\n[[“Robin. There, we’re introduced.”|ch1interlude_ros_greetbrief]]\n[[I say nothing. Maybe she’ll go away.|ch1interlude_ros_silent]]

<<display ch2spirits_possessed_kill>>

You feel a shiver run down your spine, but the horn is warm to the touch.\n\n"Those jewels could be worth a lot of money," Marian opines. "If we could find the right buyer. In fact, I know a jeweler in Nottingham..."\n\n<<set $ch2horn = false>>\s\n<<set $elspeth_horn = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

Bedivere shreds the sheets with his claws, but you bought yourself enough time to make good your escape.\n\nBreathless, you make it back to the base of the waterfall. Thankfully, Bedivere doesn't follow you out of the cave.\n\n<<if $ch2_john_treasure eq "taken">>\s\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

"At least you have my sword."\n\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

<<set $start_nature++>>\s\n<<set $gold += 4000>>\s\nHoliday needs no urging, and you thunder through the night. The baying grows distant, stops. Now to make good your—\n\nYou’re thrown from the saddle as Holiday stumbles, rolls. When the stars clear from your eyes, Holiday is peaceably cropping grass nearby — though his saddlebags, apparently full of coin — have spilled over the ground.\n\nYou gather what you can, remount, and set out into the night. Once beyond the fields, you pause to let Holiday catch his breath.\n\n<<display Fire_end>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

Wolf snaps at you, and you barely get your hand away in time. "I am not a dog." He growls again and scratches at the ground. "Still, take a look."\n\nYou notice a large paw print in the damp earth. A bear has been here recently.\n\n<<display ch2cave_into_cave>>

<<display ch2travel_water_first>>

Sir Bedivere licks it up, and continues on to lick your arm, and then your face.\n\nLittle John laughs. "Come here, Bedivere. No eating our guests." He winks at you. "He hasn't eaten a guest in over 5 years. Don't encourage him."\n\n<<set $john_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch2dinner_A>>

<<set $start_weapons to true>>\s\n<<set $start_attack ++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 250>>\s\nThe guard slowly topples backward, the silver knife sticking from his chest.\n\n"Hey," another guard rounds the corner. "Are you done with… Alarm! Alarm!" He turns and runs.\n\nMore guards are coming. Too many to fight. You strip the dead guard of his weapons — a sword and the bow — grab your silver, and disappear into the night.\n\n<<display To_the_graveyard>>\n\n<<if not $renown_explanation>>\s\n<<display renown_explanation>>\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

Rosalind shakes her head. "Much the Miller's Son and I only went walking once or twice, but when the Sheriff’s men came for Marian, he grabbed a sword. He bought us the time we needed to get away and they dragged him off in chains." She takes a shaky breath.\n\n<<set $ros_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1interlude_preggers>>

<<set $start_faith++>>\s\nYou raise the cross to your lips — silver, bound with gold wire — and begin the Lord's Prayer. "Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…"\n\nThe hounds break through the wood with the sound of a thunderstorm. Huge, slavering, black as coal, the three beasts fan out to cut off any escape. A golden halo limnes your body, a sunbeam strikes through the dense canopy.\n\nA white blur crashes into the lead hound, a splash of iridescent nacre slashes the beast’s nose and flank — drawes blood. Hooves and horn lashing, the unicorn forces the pack into a wary semicircle.\n\nThe sound of a nearby howl, and the hounds turn as one — vanish into the forest.\n\nThe unicorn steps off and turns back to you with clear blue eyes. Looks past you.\n\nA gray striped wolf stands on a nearby hill, panting hard. He flicks his ear, as if to say: "Am I late?"\n\nThen, just as quickly, both beasts vanish.\n\n<<display ch1start_R>>

Elspeth takes control of your limbs and moves you through a series of stretches. Satisfied with your body, she stands facing the fading sun, and waits.\n\n<<set $spirit_strength += 100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $start_men = $men*2>>\s\n<<set $men to 0>>\s\nYour followers greet the news with three cheers. They immediately begin packing for the journey.\n\nAnna waits, gives you a long hug. "Farewell, Robin. Fly fast, and far from the Sheriff's wrath. I hope we see you again. "\n\n<<set $family_free = true>>\s\n<<set $start_anna to "letters">>\s\n<<display time_of_day>>

<<display ch1interlude_end>>

"Hello, Robin." Marian's dress is torn and tattered after a dozen encounters with brambles that refused, and were ultimately forced, to give way. "Were you chatting with Ros? She’s been lonely since her parents were conscripted by King Richard, and is entirely unhappy as a maid. I was going to release her from her service, but now — it’s pretty much done. Sherwood is a great equalizer. Still, I’ll let her know she’s free to do, well, whatever she wants." Marian lapses into silence and together you forge through another bramble patch, ever deeper into the forest.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>\s

Little John nods. "The standard price is always an option."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

You watch, helpless, as your sword plunges down.\n\n<<display ch2spirits_death>>

You back away from the mushrooms. Fungus can be dangerous.\n\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

<<set $start_attack++>>\s\n<<set $men = 0>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 2500>>\s\nYou stalk the halls of your home, picking your targets with care. Guards continue to die in ones and twos. It’s easier to remain unnoticed when you’re alone.\n\nYou make it upstairs to the empty study when there’s a distant scream, and the sound of breaking glass. Smoke fills your nostrils, and nearby the wailing of children.\n\n[[I ransack the study. There are valuables here that must not fall to foe or fire.|I_ransack_the_study]]\n[[I search for the children.|I_leave_the_study]]\n[[I have one more target tonight. Time to find the Sheriff.|hunting_the_sheriff]]\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

"They burned my mother at the stake for witchcraft when I was a child, and refused to help my father when the Sheriff's men came for him." Marian shakes her head. "The nobility will be no help to us. Do you have any other ideas?"\n\n<<set $ch1_magicdinner_didnoble = true>>\s\n<<display magic_friends_and_allies>>

<<set $start_attack+= 3>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\n<<display The_house_is_lost>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

You scramble nimbly to a high branch. Three houndsbreak through the wood with the sound of a thunderstorm. Huge, slavering, black as coal, the three beasts fan out to cut off any escape, barking and snarling at the trunk. You're forced to scrabble higher.\n\nThe hounds stop suddenly, alerted by some sound or sense beyond your own, and race away through the forest.\n\nBelow you, a creature of pure alabaster steps daintily around the tree. The unicorn, its pearlescent horn shedding rainbows through the gloaming forest pauses, stares into your eyes, and nods.\n\nThe unicorn scratches something in the dirt, and vanishes. ‘Elspeth’ is spelled clearly amidst last year’s fallen leaves.\n\n<<display ch1start_R>>

The river flows peacefully under the bridge while you wrestle with indecision. Little John watches you, patient.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

"I can't keep wandering aimlessly. With all that the Sheriff has done, with everything he continues to do… It needs to stop, before more people are hurt."\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_campfireplan>>

<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\nYou pick the mushrooms, careful not to jostle them and release their spores. You now have enough purple nightcap to put a dozen men to sleep.\n\n<<set $purple_nightcap += 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_mushrooms = "picked">>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

<<if $ch2time lte 0>>\s\n<<display ch2sheriff_nocross>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_return_to_john>>\n<<endif>>\s

You stand at the base of the waterfall. The spray is cool and refreshing.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>

"I’ll take that as good enough. Jump!"\n\n<<set $marian_romance++>>\s\n<<display ch1_morning_leap>>

<<display ch2shepherdess_allison_trapped>>

<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $start_maids to true>>\s\n<<set $gold += 1500>>\s\n<<display I_need_to_search_the_room>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

<<display ch2spirits_possession>>

"Much’d never held a sword in his life. Why’d he have to go charge the Sheriff’s men? Because we went out walking once or twice? Because when he asked I said yes, and he was going to talk to his father about arranging things //proper-like//? His words, not mine." She laughs a little, though it’s more of a sob. "He never did manage to put words together the way they’re supposed to go."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_preggers>>

Marian takes a handful of carved sticks from her pouch, throws them on the ground and studies the results. \n\n"The hounds will be back," she frowns. "But they won't be after us... We should get up early and get away then, while we can. Good night, Robin. I'll see you in the morning."\n\n[[The Next Morning...|The_Next_Morning]]

<<display conversations_on_the_trail>>

The pool and waterfall have a peaceful quality, and soothe your raging indecision.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

[[I attack!|ch1_guy_attack]]\n[[“Come on. We’ll sneak into his camp and steal his supplies while he’s not looking.”|ch1_guy_sneak]]\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\n[[“Guy of Gisborne!” I approach his camp openhanded. “We need to talk.”|ch1_guy_sneak_talk]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\n[[“Spread out and surround the camp,” I instruct the men. “On my signal step into the clearing with weapons drawn.”|ch1_guy_surround]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian eq "magic") and (not $ch1_guy_curse)>>\s\n[[“Marian, can you curse him in some way?”|ch1_guy_curse]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch1_guy_curse>>\s\n[[“Alright, Marian. Turn him into a cat.”|ch1_guy_curse_done]]\n<<endif>>\s

"Then jump!"\n\n<<display ch1_guy_hounds_leap>>

You hear hounds racing through the woods and the thunder of horses' hooves.\n\n"The Sheriff's men are through the defile!" Marian cries.\n\n[[“The old fortress is still defensible. Quickly, to the ruins.”|ch2sheriff_the_old_fortress_is_still]]\n[[“The waterfall is rocky and treacherous for their horses. We'll hold them there.”|ch2sheriff_the_waterfall_is_rocky_and]]\n<<if not $ch2cross>>\s\n[[“We stop them at the crossing. When little John sees what were up against, maybe he'll join us.”|ch2sheriff_we_stop_them_at_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2cross>>\s\n[[“To the crossing! We can still make it to the Deepwood.”|ch2sheriff_to_the_crossing_we_can]]\n<<endif>>\s

A butterfly lands on your fingertip and fans its wings slowly. You have all the time in the world to decide what to do.\n\n<<display ch2ruins>>

<<display ch2crypt_coffin_open>>

<<display ch1morning>>

The bear nuzzles you playfully, and takes a couple slow swings at your hand. He seems to like you.\n\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\nThe unicorn's nostrils flare, catch your scent. It fixes you with a gimlet eye just beyond arm's reach. "Are you a virgin?" The beast speaks soft, feminine, and clear in the king's English.\n\n[[“Of course!”|Of_course_virginity]]\n[[“Well... Ah... There was this time...”|There_was_this_time]]

"Good luck to you, then. I'll be here, in case you make it out alive."\n\n<<set $ch2ghosts = true>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins>>

<<set $start_diplomacy++>>\s\nYou reach into your closet.\n\n[[I disguise myself as a manservant.|I_disguise_myself][$start_male = true]]\n[[I disguise myself as a maid.|I_disguise_myself][$start_female = true]]

"Goodness!" A noblewoman sits on the ground opposite you, rubbing her head. Her basket of raspberries is overturned at her side. "I'm so very sorry."\n\nA pair of ladies-in-waiting scurry around the raspberry bushes. "My lady! Are you all right? Quickly, come away from this hooded ruffian."\n\n"Nonsense." The noblewoman rises, brushes down her skirt, and tucks a strand of dark hair behind her ear. "We were both out gathering dinner, and we forest travelers must stick together. It takes a peculiar type of person to brave Sherwood Forest."\n\nShe regards you curiously, and offers her hand. "I am Maid Marian of Woodbridge. The Sheriff of Nottingham imprisoned my father, seized my family lands, and announced his intention to marry me. By force. I and my ladies-in-waiting fled into the forest to avoid capture.\n\n<<display ch1marian_identity>>

The Sheriff rolls aside at the last moment, but the ghost of the Black Knight remains transfixed on <<print $possessed>>'s blade. She flips the Black Knight’s visor, and you see those selfsame blue eyes and blond hair with a masculine jaw, wisps of a beard.\n\nYou can feel it, deep below the knoll, as the hounds of hell rise from their place by the fire. Elspeth steps out of <<print $possessed>>'s body and raises her arms, exultant. "There is no redemption," the former knight meets your eyes. "Only death and the rewards of a life ill-lived."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_hellhounds_watch>>\n\n<<display ch2spirits_lost_knight>>

"Well, don't mind if I do." Little John tucks into your provisions with gusto. You and Marian make polite conversation when — in the middle of his pie — Little John yawns once, twice, and falls fast asleep.\n\n"Now," Marian whispers. "Let's across before he wakes up."\n\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<set $purple_nightcap-->>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_leave3>>

"I have already died trying, Robin. But you're not convinced, and neither am I."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 75>>\s\n<<set $start_children to true>>\s\n<<set $start_cook to true>>\s\n"Godspeed, Robin." The stable hands usher the children down the hall.\n\nYou race back upstairs, but the study is empty, the door broken. Smoke begins filling the hallway, along with an unpleasant heat.\n\n[[I ransack the study. There are valuables here that should not be lost to foe or fire.|I_ransack_the_study]]\n[[I return to the kitchen. Cook and the others need my help.|I_return_to_the_kitchen]]\n[[I search for the missing women. They must be nearby.|I_search_for_the_missing_women]]

<<set $ch1_outlawq_whyoutlaw = true>>\s\n"King Richard took nearly every able-bodied knight off to the Crusades, and Prince John holds the kingdom's purse strings. \n\n"The Sheriff is John's lackey, and John supplies him with foreign mercenaries to keep the peace." She shrugs. "The old, sick, and weak left in most noble holdings aren't in any condition to fight. By taking to the woods, I thought I could rally the only force left: the peasantry."\n\nShe looks across the campfire. "These good men, they've joined us because they have nothing left, and they got away. That's not true for everyone, and if we wait for all of Nottinghamshire's farms to be burned there'll be no one to fight for, and no hope of a home even if we win."\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

<<set $bounty += 2000>>\s\n<<display crossing_departure>>

@@color:green;You have a limited amount of time to get into the Deepwood ahead of the Sheriff's forces. If nothing changes, the Sheriff will catch you <<if $ch2time eq $ch2_daylight>>at sunset.<<else>>just after sunset.<<endif>>@@

<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\nYou leap once more into the pool. With strong, sure strokes you reach the bottom, grab the sword, and return to the surface.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_sword>>

<<set $start_nature++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 25>>\s\n<<if not $start_woman>>"Haste in love, haste in life." The unicorn angles its horn towards your chest. "Consider carefully before you give away your heart."<<else>>"Pity that," The unicorn angles its horn towards your heart. "We might have inspired such art, you and I."<<endif>>\n\n<<display unicorn_departure>>

Little John moves his quarterstaff slightly, and your arrow buries itself in the wood. He does the same with your second arrow, and takes one giant step. Your sword drops from numb fingers, the end of his staff connects with your head, and your world goes black.\n\n<<set $ch2arrow = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_unconscious>>

<<display ch2ruins_crypt_entry>>

<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $gold += 1000>>\s\nYou quickly pile silver into several sacks until you have it all. The women's screams slowly subside into sobs, then silence.\n\n"Well, well," a guard steps around the corner. Spits. "You must be Robin."\n\n[[I surprise him, and attack with a silver carving knife.|I_surprise_him]]\n[[I grab a nearby lantern and smash it on the ground at his feet.|The_house_is_lost_surprise]]\n[[“No, Sir. The Sheriff sent me here for the silver. See?”|The_Sheriff_sent_me_here]]\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

<<set $start_clever++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 250>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 500>>\s\n"Sorry, my lord." The guard rapidly gathers his trousers around his waist. "Just making sure Robin wasn’t hiding here, by the gravestones. But, ah, I don’t see anyone. I’ll just, head back to the house."\n\nThe coast is clear. You saunter out into the night, pausing briefly when you reach the edge of the fields.\n\n<<display Fire_end>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

<<if ($ch2cave_walk eq "")>>\s\nThe path around the back of the waterfall is narrow and slick with spray. Getting to the cave could be slow or hazardous.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_cave>>\n<<elseif ($ch2cave_walk eq "tried")>>\s\nThe path of slick rocks stretches around the back of the waterfall.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_cave>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_cave>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<if not $ch1_outlawq_howlong>>\s\n[[“How long have you been out here?”|ch1_outlawq_howlong]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch1_outlawq_accomplish>>\s\n[[“What have you accomplished thus far?”|ch1_outlawq_accomplish]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch1_outlawq_whyoutlaw>>\s\n[[“Marian, you're the daughter of the Earl of Woodbridge. Why turn outlaw?”|ch1_outlawq_whyoutlaw]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch1_question gt 1>>\s\n[[I chew my venison and listen the men laughing nearby. I don't have any more questions.|ch1_outlawdinner_noquestions]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[I chew my venison and listen to the men laughing nearby. I'm not interested in talking.|ch1_outlawdinner_noquestions]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2spirits_possession>>

The unicorn rears up on its hind legs and vanishes twixt the passing of a cloud. No sign is left on the return of the sun. You shake your head and continue on your way.\n\n<<if $I_take_refuge_in_the_depths_of_Sherwood_Forest>>\s\nThe approaching forest swallows the horizon. Isolated trees merge into twisted thickets, and you're forced to circle the edge, search for an entrance.\n\n<<display wolf_sighting>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display top_level_choices>>\n<<endif>>\s

"Aye, then. Cross. At your leisure and as often as you like. No man, no Sheriff has the right to run roughshod through these woods. We'll stop him together."\n\n<<set $john_present = true>>\s\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<set $grace += $peasant_perk>>\s\n<<set $renown -= $john_argument>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing>>

<<if not $ch2spirits_were_supposed_to_joust_the>>\s\n[[“We’re supposed to joust the Black Knight? Where’s our horse? Our lance?”|ch2spirits_were_supposed_to_joust_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($curious gt 0) and (not $ch2spirits_you_sacked_camelot_why_you)>>\s\n[[“You sacked Camelot, why? You were a knight of the Round Table.”|ch2spirits_you_sacked_camelot_why_you]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($curious gt 1) and (not $ch2spirits_i_insist_unless_you_want)>>\s\n[[“I insist, unless you want me to fight you every step of the way.”|ch2spirits_i_insist_unless_you_want]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian eq "outlaw") and ($marian_action eq "")>>\s\n[[“Marian, get the men into position around the ruins.”|ch2spirits_marian_get_the_men_into]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian eq "noble") and ($marian_action eq "")>>\s\n[[“Marian, take Matilda. Get little John up here. Do whatever it takes.”|ch2spirits_marian_take_matilda_get_little]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian eq "magic") and ($marian_action eq "")>>\s\n[[“Marian, any magic to help here?”|ch2spirits_marian_any_magic_to_help]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian_action eq "">>\s\n[[“Marian, stay by my side. Just in case.”|ch2spirits_marian_stay_by_my_side]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($marian_action neq "") and $wolf>>\s\n[[“Wolf, what is it?” I follow Wolf to the edge of the hill.|ch2spirits_wolf_what_is_it]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I’m ready. Take control.”|ch2spirits_im_ready_take_control]]\n[[“I’ll control my body, thank you. Enjoy the ride.”|ch2spirits_ill_control_my_body_thank]]

<<if not $noblesse_tooltip>>\n<<set $noblesse_tooltip = true>>\n@@color:green;Grace can earn you more than the standard support from the nobility. Use it to accomplish special missions here in the Great Hall. The other powers in the land — the church, the peasantry, and the Deepwood — may aid you once you show dedication to their cause.@@\n<<endif>>

Marian walks over to the coffin and kneels. "Dame Elspeth, long ago you carried this sword into battle against tyranny and injustice. I ask for your blessing to bring succor to the downtrodden, and your blade to combat the evil Prince John and Sheriff of Nottingham, who grip England by the throat."\n\nIt may simply be the play of light through the dust, but you could swear you see the ghostly image of a lady knight lay her hand on Marian's head in benediction.\n\n"Alright, Robin." Marian stands. "I'm ready to go."\n\n<<set $ch2sword = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

//"The hounds wake to the night. They bring my soul to heel. My time is nigh."//\n\n"I can see her thoughts. The Black Knight comes. They will fight. She will die again, her soul forever lost. And I… I will simply die." Tears begin rolling down the shepherdess’ otherwise impassive cheeks.\n\n<<set $ch2spirits_whats_going_to_happen to true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_top_allison>>

<<display ch2crypt_magic_history>>

"Now that you mention it," Little John strokes his beard. "There's an old ruin upriver. Sits on a hill in the middle of the field, you can't miss it. Within that ruin is a tomb, the tomb of Sir Kay — King Arthur's foster brother — or so they say. And within that tomb is a magical drinking horn, a gift from Merlin to Kay when Arthur first became king. Bring me that horn, and you can cross this bridge as often as you like."\n\n<<set $ch2quest = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_questions2>>

<<if not $serf_option>>\s\n[[“I'm Robin. The Sheriff's men burned my master's farm when he refused to pay the Sheriff's taxes.”|ch1marian_im_robin_the_sheriffs_men]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I'm Robin, of the Locksley farm. The Sheriff's men stole our lands when we couldn't pay his taxes.”|ch1marian_im_robin_of_the_locksley]]\n[[“Squire Robin of Locksley, lately escaped from prison in Jerusalem and King Richard’s Crusade. I had barely returned when my home was burnt and pillaged by the Sheriff.”|ch1marian_squire_robin_of_locksley_lately]]\n[[“I'm Robin of Locksley. The Sheriff seized my lands when I refused to swear allegiance to Prince John.”|ch1marian_im_robin_of_locksley_the]]\n[[“I am Robin, rightful heir to throne of England. My father was the late Henry the Younger, Richard's older brother. The Sheriff's men seized Locksley farm, where I was raised, when my adopted family refused to turn me over to my uncle.”|ch1marian_i_am_robin_rightful_heir]]

[[I was wrong to encourage Much. I hasten up the line.|ch1interlude_leave_me_alone_much]]\n[[“There’s more to your story, isn’t there?”|ch1interlude_much_morestory]]\n[[“We’ll get her away from the Sheriff. Don’t worry.”|ch1interlude_much_getaway]]

"Exactly. I'm worried people will turn on me once the Sheriff's gone, no matter how helpful I've been. Too many women in my family have faced angry mobs..."\n\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>

[[Rosalind and Matilda prepare dinner...|Rosalind_and_Matilda_prepare_dinner]]

"Haven't I?" The Sheriff chuckles. "Your blind optimism is...almost charming."\n\n<<display ch2sheriff_trapped_here>>

<<set $john_present = true>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued">>"Allison kept after me, sayin' I should see what you were up to." <<endif>>You meet Little John halfway down to the crossing. <<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>He takes the shepherdess from your arms. "I’d a bad feeling when Allison didn't join me for breakfast." He looks around.<<endif>> "’Tis bad business that happened up on that knoll, or so they say. The Dame of the Tower lead the sack of Camelot, slew the Black Knight when he came after her, an then threw herself from the tower battlements." He tsks. "Bad business."\n\n<<display spirit_john_choices>>

<<display ch2crypt_marian_return_sword>>

<<display ch2ruins_crypt_entry>>

You hear a loud grunt from around the corner, and a huge black bear ambles into the room, snuffling at the air. The bear wears a collar around its neck labeled //Bedivere//.\n\n[[I escaped the Baskerville hounds. I can handle a bear.|ch2cave_i_escaped_the_baskerville_hounds]]\n[[It hasn't seen us yet! I drag Marian behind the bed.|ch2cave_it_hasn't_seen_us_yet]]

<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<set $bandits_found to true>>\s\n<<if $men gt 0>>\s\nSeveral of your followers voluntarily accompany you. With numbers, you'll have a better chance of overpowering any bandits you encounter.\n\n<<endif>>\s\nYou lie in wait along one of the popular trade routes that skirts the edge of the forest. A wagon passes by, then another. Finally, a well-dressed man on a fine donkey trots across your path. A pair of scruffy men step out of the forest as if on cue and demand his goods and valuables in the name of the Black Wolf bandits.\n\n<<if $men is 0>>\s\n[[I leap from the bushes and drive off the bandits.|I_leap_from_the_bushes]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[My men and I surround the bandits.|My_men_and_I_surround_the_bandits]] (10 men)\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $renown gte 200>>\s\n[[“You don’t want to do that, friends. These are the king’s roads, and I his emissary. Put down your weapons and you will be spared.”|You_don’t_want_to_do_that]] (200 renown)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;“You don’t want to do that, friends. These are the king’s roads, and I his emissary. Put down your weapons and you will be spared." (200 renown)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $gold gte 500>>\s\n[[I distract the bandits by throwing gold.|I_distract_the_bandits]] (500 gold)\n<<else>>\s\n@@color:red;I distract the bandits by throwing gold. (500 gold)@@\n<<endif>>\s\n[[There’s nothing I can do.|There’s_nothing_I_can_do]]\n\n<<display purchase_explanation>>

The Sheriff’s men dog your every step deep into the night. You \n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\nstumble into camp\n<<endif>>\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\nstumble across Rosalind and Matilda\n<<endif>>\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\nmake camp\n<<endif>>\n just before dawn.

You finish your meat before the bear can even think of getting close. Little John laughs and refills your plate.\n\n<<display ch2dinner_A>>

"I suppose it is," Marian appraises you. "Dire straits are proof of one's character, and you continue to surprise me. Give me a moment to imagine what might have been, and then we can go." She walks around the room, trailing her fingers over the wealth, and stops.\n\n"It appears our Little John is an aspiring poet." She picks a scrap of paper off the floor, and carefully places it on the bed.\n\n"//To be bold,//\n//Your hair like gold,//\n//Far better than mold.//\n\nand\n\n//The gods gave Jason the golden fleece,//\n//You are as beautiful,//\n//Though less like your sheep//."\n\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess neq "unknown")>>\s\n"For Allison, the shepherdess, I'd guess. Cute. Bad, but cute."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess eq "unknown")>>\s\n"From these lines, I'd say he loves a shepherdess with golden hair.<<if not $ch2cross>> If we can find her, she may be able to help us cross the river for a less exorbitant fee.<<endif>>"\n\n<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "late">>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_bear>>

His eyes widen as he weighs the coins. "And with my own stock, no less. I'd recognize this eclectic mix of coinage anywhere. Well played, Robin. Well played. Though I hope Bedivere wasn't injured in your heist."\n\n<<if $ch2bedivere_wounded>>\s\n"He was wounded, but not badly." Marian quickly relates your encounter with the bear. "He ran after a short struggle."\n\n"Good. I'll tend to him later. Ol' Bedivere's seen far worse."<<set $ch2bedivere_wounded = false>><<else>>\s\n"Not at all," Marian says. "We took great care not to deal with the bear."\n\n"Good." Little John nods. "I'd hate for Bedivere to be hurt."<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch1_nobledinner_didrevolt = true>>"Insight a peasant revolt? No, Robin. Forgive me for saying this, but the nobility are born to rule. We can't overturn the way of the world because of a few bad men. Please, tell me you won't do such a thing."\n\n[[“Perhaps you're right. A general revolt would kill innocent and guilty alike.”|ch1_nobledinner_stopmen_agree]]\n[[“I understand your concerns. But I make no promises. I'll do whatever it takes to stop the Sheriff.”|ch1_nobledinner_stopmen_nopromises]]

<<set $ch1_guyq_supplies = true>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\n"If I did, you’d have to fight me for them, and I’d hate to break the cordial atmosphere we’ve built."\n\n"I agree, Robin," Marian sides with Guy. "We approached in peace, and we shall leave as such."\n\n<<else>>\s\nGuy nods towards his saddlebags.\n\n"Gold," Much says. "Lots of it."\n\n"I was collecting the local taxes before detouring to hunt you through the forest," Guy explains. "The Sheriff will be unhappy with me."\n\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $ch1_guy_question++>>\s\n<<display ch1_guy_parley>>

"You think I can step out of the grave at your behest? Defeat the Black Knight, Robin, and my benediction shall be upon your endeavors. If you fail, you won’t have anything to worry about."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_redemption>>

You and Marian share a moment of grim contemplation. <<set $marian_romance++>>\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinnerquestions>>

"Magic is wonderful, and awe-inspiring. But it can't find me food, or rescue my father, and it couldn't save my mother from the pyre. Not the magic I have, anyway. And not by myself. I'm not sure if, even together, we have any chance of success."\n\n<<display ch1_magicdinner_allies>>

<<set $ch2spirits_the_Black_Knight to true>>\s\n"A spirit of darkness and evil, locked in eternal battle with the ghost of Dame Elspeth, the knight who haunts these ruins."\n\n<<display spirits_helping_questions>>

"Red hair, red face, big bushy beard?" Marian smiles. "He always ministered to our community whenever he passed through, though I heard he’d received a position in Nottingham proper." She looks at you. "We have a friend on the inside, Robin. That’s good news, indeed."\n\n<<display ch1interlude_F>>

<<if not $ch2crypt_visit>>\s\nGreat blocks of cut stone outline what was once a mighty fortress, now a collection of irregular mounds overgrown with grass and brambles. In the center of the fortress, you find an intact staircase, clear of dirt and vegetation, that winds into the earth.\n<<else>>\s\nYou stand at the top of the stairs that lead to the crypt. The wind is cold here, and it bites through your clothes.\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<display ch2ruins_crypt_entry1>>

A wolf howls nearby, and one of the ladies-in-waiting shrieks.\n\n"Rosalind!" Marian says. "Come, sit by the fire. What's troubling you?"\n\n"My lady, it's just that we came here to find Warden Will Scarlet, but no one's seen him in years. I'm starting to think he no longer exists."\n\n"You have a point," Marian concedes. "But what of it?"\n\n[[“Forget this mythical warden. We can work against the Sheriff ourselves.”|ch1_nobledinner_forget]]\n[[“The forest is vast. Don't give up hope, we'll find him yet.”|ch1_nobledinner_vast]]\n[[I contemplate the fire, and let Marian come to her own conclusions.|ch1_nobledinner_contemplate]]

"I say, man, let us pass!" Marian shouts.\n\n[[I shoot her a look.|ch2start_i_shoot_her_look]]\n[[I let it slide.|ch2start_i_let_it_slide]]

<<set $ch2crossing_mo_chat to true>>\s\n"Sure." Marian shrugs. "What's the harm? It's not like he's being unreasonable or anything."\n\n<<set $advice_list = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_outlawchoices_top>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $start_food to true>>\s\n<<set $renown += 50>>\s\nYou fill your sack with salt ham, canteens of water, and other victuals. You won’t have to hunt or forage for at least a week, and can make good your escape from the Sheriff.\n\n<<display Escape_the_house>>

<<if $royal and (not $ch2johnquestions_i_will_not_give_up)>>\s\n[[“I am the rightful ruler of England. Richard and John are but pretenders. I command you, let us pass!”|ch2johnquestions_i_am_the_rightful_ruler]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2dinner and not $ch2johnquestions_i_signal_marian_its_time>>\s\n[[I signal Marian. It's time to eat.|ch2johnquestions_i_signal_marian_its_time]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“Prince John and the Sheriff see enemies in Richard's legacy. You were appointed to this post by the king. That simple fact condemns you in their eyes.”|ch2johnquestions_prince_john_and_the_sheriff]]\n[[“Until now, Sherwood has been the preserve of the king. Prince John and the Sheriff love easy money more than the benefits of a managed forest. They will use this all up for industry and settlement.”|ch2johnquestions_until_now_sherwood_has_been]]

<<if $male>>\s\n//"I cannot,"// the spirit sighs. //"You are no woman."//\n\n"But I am." Marian steps up.\n\n<<if $rosalind_present>>\s\n"And I," Rosalind swallows her fear. "That is, if you think I can help."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_ladies_night>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<set $possessed = "Robin">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_transfer>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2crossing_mm_sheep = true>>\s\n"Not sheep, I think. And some farmers take their stock into the woods. There are natural and man-made glades that make for excellent grazing. In any case, we'd have to do some exploring."\n\n<<set $ch2magic_advice = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_magicchoices_top>>

Bedivere walks in a circle around the treasure and lies on top of it. His dark eyes follow you out of the cave.\n\n<<set $ch2_john_treasure = "found">>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall>>

<<display ch2sheriff_cross>>

"What shall we do with him, Robin?" Marian asks, crossing her arms. "Guy of Gisborne is master of the Baskerville hounds. They say he trains them by going peasant hunting."\n\n<<if $marian eq "outlaw">>\s\nShe shakes her head. "He's too dangerous to leave alive. I say we kill him and be done with it."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n"Wait," Guy protests. "I surrendered!"\n\n<<if $marian eq "noble">>\s\nShe looks upon him with barely concealed disgust. "He surrendered however, and by the rules of chivalry, we must allow him to live."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\n\nShe smiles, an evil glint in her eye. "I could curse him with a humiliating scent that persists no matter how often he bathes. A scent his dogs could not abide."<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\s\n[[“A proper curse? I agree. Let's let him go, naked and stinking. Furthermore, his rings will compensate us for our trouble.”|ch1_morning_curseguy]]\n[[“Let him go. Word of his defeat at our hands will inspire hope among the people. Resistance is possible.”|ch1_morning_releaseguy]]\n[[“I'll kill him. A dead enemy will never bother us again.”|ch1_morning_killguy]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[“Let him go, naked. His rings will compensate us for our trouble.”|ch1_morning_nakedguy]]\n[[“Let him go. Word of his defeat at our hands will inspire hope among the people. Resistance is possible.”|ch1_morning_releaseguy]]\n[[“I'll kill him. A dead enemy will never bother us again.”|ch1_morning_killguy]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2defile++>>\s\nYou spend about twenty minutes navigating the steep slopes above the defile, rolling trees into the passage.\n\nThe last tree is on its way when you slip on a pile of wet leaves and start sliding into the abyss.\n\n[[I scrabble for purchase.|ch2defile_i_scrabble_for_purchase]]\n[[I loop rope around an arrow and fire it into a nearby tree.|ch2defile_i_loop_rope_around_an]]\n[[The defile's only ten feet wide. I get ready to jump!|ch2defile_the_defile's_only_ten_feet]]

<<set $sprained_ankle to true>>\s\n<<set $injurty++>>\s\nYou push away from the tree and force your trembling legs into motion once more. Step-by-step you hear the hounds crash closer, the sound of an approaching thunderstorm. Then the ground isn’t where you expect, your feet find only air, and you fall head over heels into a deep, dark hollow.\n\nHuge, slavering, black as coal, teeth like ivory daggers reach for your throat. You scramble to your feet — and collapse — a sharp pain spikes up your ankles, and the Baskerville hound lunges again.\n\nA wolf crashes into the hound, drives it into the wall of the hollow. There's a snarling ball of fur and fangs, and the wolf is in turn thrown away to land at your feet. You meet the wolf’s golden eyes and swear he winks, as if to say: "Now might be a good time to run, human."\n\n<<display ch1start_W>>

"This…this is marvelous, Robin." She makes a couple of passes in the air. "I won't let you down."\n\n<<set $elspeth_sword = "marian">>\s\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>

Guy coaxes his hounds to their feet and leads them away into the forest.\n\n"Guy will not rest until he avenges this slight," Marian says. "He'll take this insult to heart. Like a dog with a bone, he'll hold this grudge."\n<<set $guy = "angry">>\s\n<<display ch1_morning_farewell>>

You can feel it, deep below the knoll, as the hounds of hell rise from their place by the fire. Elspeth steps from you and raises her arms, exultant, as their presence swells beneath your feet. "There is no redemption, Robin," the former knight whispers. "Only death and the rewards of a life ill-lived."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_hellhounds_watch>>

<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $gold += 500>>\s\n<<set $silver_cross to true>>\s\n<<display I_keep_searching_the_room>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

<<display ch2dinner_pirate>>

<<set $start_leadership++>>\s\n<<set $start_children to true>>\s\n<<set $start_maids to true>>\s\n<<set $start_cook to true>>\s\n<<set $men += 10>>\s\n<<set $renown += 275>>\s\nYou lead the children back to the kitchen. Smoke fills the hallways, and crackling flames lick at your heels.\n\nCook and Anna are in the kitchen, a bag of supplies at their feet. Just then, the stable hands appear with five coughing, soot-stained maids. You quickly disappear into the night. <<display Fire_end>>\n\n<<display men_explanation>>

Marian shakes her head. "They're afraid as well. Too many nobles rot in the Sheriff's dungeons. Any other ideas?"<<set $ch1_outlawdinner_didnoble = true>>\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinner_noquestions_choices>>

[[“It’s not over, Rosalind. In fact, it’s only just begun. I promise you.”|ch1interlude_missing_much]]\n[[“Did you leave someone behind? Someone you care about?”|ch1interlude_missing_someone]]\n[[I stay silent and let her find her words.|ch1interlude_ros_unwise_silent]]

"Not like there's anyone else trying to cross the river. Shoot."\n\n<<display ch2johnquestions_personal_questions>>

The torch is old, but dry. You can use it to find your way through some dark space.\n\n<<set $ch2torch = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt>>

One of the men blanches, and his dagger falls from his hands. <<if $start_female>>"She's not joking."<<else>>"He's not joking."<<endif>>\n\n<<display ch1marian_joke>>

"Robin," Elspeth stops you. "This is the appointed place and time. The Black Knight comes. If we leave here now… This is my chance to find closure."\n\n[[“And Elsa is your friend. Your mount.”|ch2spirits_and_elsa_is_your_friend]]\n[[“You’re right. We need to be here for the Black Knight.”|ch2spirits_youre_right_we_need_to]]

Little John peers at the horn from all sides. "A pretty thing," he admits. "Now, I just need to figure out how to make it magically fill with mead. But, that's not your problem."\n\n<<set $elspeth_horn = false>>\s\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_leave>>

<<if $friends>>\s\n"We've talked about this, though, and I don't disagree with what you said." \n\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>\n<<else>>\s\n"I'm not really a people person." Marian studies the fire. "What do you suggest?"\n\n<<display magic_friends_and_allies>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $john_talk++>>\s\n<<if $john_talk gt 2>>\s\n\n<<display ch2spirits_coming>>\n<<else>>\s\n\n<<display spirit_john_questions>>\n<<endif>>\s

The sun is warm and the grass is soft, but there's a chill to the wind that keeps you from completely relaxing. After a moment, you stand and stretch. The Sheriff's men draw closer with every moment.\n\n<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\n<<set $ch2_ruin_rest = true>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins_start>>

"Gawain's own." Little John whistles, and weighs the cross in his hand. "I'm no Christian man, but your need is plain to sacrifice a piece of your faith." He pockets the cross. "A cross for a crossing. The way is ready."\n\nYou feel a brief, passing sadness across your heart, that you would so quickly give up the cross. It was a gift, a momento from... Bah, it's gone now. No sense dwelling on the loss.\n\n<<set $silver_cross = false>>\s\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_leave>>

<<set $start_anna to "nothing">>\n<<if $start_maids>>\nThe maids busy themselves tidying the camp.\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_children>>\nThe children sit, playing games in the dirt.\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_stable>>\nThe stable hands range at the edge of the camp; they managed to corral a horse during your escape, a chestnut brown named Holiday. <<set $start_horse to true>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $start_cook>>\nCook and Anna talk quietly, glancing worriedly at the horizon.\n <<endif>>\n <<if $start_church and $start_women>>\n The families from the church huddle together. \n <<endif>>\n <<if not $start_cook>>\n A woman named Anna introduces herself, and volunteers to help organize the survivors.\n <<endif>>\n <<set $men +=10>>\n <<set $gold += ($men * 10)>>\n<<set $renown += ($men * 5)>>\n<<set $bounty += ($men * 100)>>\n<<if $start_horse>>\n<<set $start_lodging-->>\n<<endif>>

[[The next day...|next_day_later_ch1]]

Allison looks up from the hollow. "Oh, you're back! Can you help me get out now?"\n\n<<display ch2shepherdess_allison1>>

<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\nYou pick your way over the rocks without incident. It was slow going, but no one slipped.\n\n<<display ch2cave>>

<<set $inventory = true>>\n<<if $casual_difficulty>>\n<<set $ch2time += 32>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $normal_difficulty and $ch2time lt 50>>\n<<set $ch2time += 16>>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $ch2time gt 100>>\n<<set $ch2time = 100>>\n<<endif>>\n<<set $ch2_location = "crossing">>\n<<set $bounty += 5000>>\n<<if $marian eq "magic">>\n<<set $ch2defile-->>\n<<endif>>\n<<if $much_present>>\n<<set $ch2defile-->>\n<<endif>>\n<<display ch2start_desc>>

"Thank you. Do you have any other ideas?"\n\n<<display ch1_nobledinner_campfireplan>>

<<set $ch1_question = 0>>\s\nMarian joins you by her small campfire with a plate of beef jerky. <<if $sprained_ankle>>She wrapped your injured ankle in a makeshift splint inscribed with strange symbols that send pins and needles up and down your leg. "That'll be better by morning, I think." She checks the dressing, then checks a book, and another.<<endif>> "I had to choose between food and books when I fled my father's castle. I chose my books." She gnaws on the strip of jerky. <<if not $sprained_ankle>>"I'm beginning to regret that decision."<<endif>>\n\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>

The Sheriff's men come ever closer while you dawdle.\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\n<<if $ch2_staff_duel eq 1>>\s\n<<set $ch2water_walk = true>>\s\nYou drag yourself out of the pool at the base of the falls and find a flat, warm stone. It's all you can do to lie in the sun and slowly recover from the chill water.\n\nSometime later, Marian finds you. "Robin! I'm so glad you're safe." She wraps a blanket around your shoulders. "Come on, it'll help if you get up and moving. We still need to cross the river before the Sheriff's men arrive."\n\n<<display ch2waterfall>>\n<<elseif $ch2_staff_duel eq 2>>\s\nGoing over a waterfall without a barrel is no fun, and this is your second ride today! But now you’ve seen the feint. You know about the rope. Does he have any other tricks up his sleeve?\n\nThe frigid river saps your strength, calls to you with the promise of a cold, deep sleep. You shake your head and swim hard for your favorite flat stone. Marian will be here soon. Maybe she'll bring something more than a blanket this time. Tea would be nice.\n\n"Robin!" Marian's voice echoes over the rocks, and you feel a warm blanket wrapped around your shoulders.\n\n[[“Did you bring any tea?”|ch2waterfall_swim_did_you_bring_any_tea]]\n[[I snuggle into the blanket.|ch2waterfall_swim_i_snuggle_into_the_blanket]]\n<<endif>>\s

<<print $possessed>> raises her arms, clearly fighting the spirit's control, and buries the blade in the ground.\n\nThe Black Knight appears superimposed upon the Sheriff's body. He slowly raises his visor — selfsame blue eyes and blond hair with a masculine jaw, wisps of a beard.\n\nElspeth steps from <<print $possessed>>’s body and stands, silhouetted in the scattered lightning. She looks away into the wind, and unearthly baying fills your ears. "The hounds of heaven rise from their place by the fire; they’re chasing me down." She raises her hand to you in farewell. The baying comes closer. "The Black Knight was my brother," Elspeth buries her face in her hands. "My twin brother, and I killed him."\n\nThe Sheriff gets to his feet and glares daggers, but the Black Knight holds him still.\n\nElspeth raises her hand to you in farewell. The baying comes closer. "You believe in redemption, Robin? I still don’t know."\n\n<<display ch2spirits_decision>>

"Well, after a fact." Little John scratches his neck. "He comes by now and again, but I've got to make ends meet on my own."\n\n<<set $ch2johnquestions_you_work_for_the_warden to true>>\s\n<<set $personal++>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_personal_questions>>

"I can I weave the dust into a tapestry," Marian whispers, her eyes glowing. "Watch, and learn of times past."\n\nThe dust gathers into an image of a lady being granted a gleaming sword by a warrior-king, while an ancient man in star-decorated robes looks on. The image shifts, and the woman rides into battle astride a unicorn, a golden bow in her hand. Once more, the dust swirls and collects itself, and the woman is at a long banquet table, her drinking horn raised in salute.\n\nThere's a screech, a sound like tearing flesh and gnashing teeth, and the dust disperses.\n\n"Dark forces gather round this knoll," Marian says. "Let us make haste. Even without the threat of the Sheriff's men, we would do well not to linger here come nightfall."\n\n<<set $ch2_tapestry = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crypt_coffin1>>

<<if ($noble) and (not $ch1_nobleq_scarlet)>>\s\n[[“You mentioned Will Scarlet?”|ch1_nobleq_scarlet]]\n<<elseif (not $noble) and (not $ch1_nobleq_scarlet)>>\s\n[[“Were you looking for someone in these woods?”|ch1_nobleq_scarlet]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch1_nobleq_marry>>\s\n[[“Why is the Sheriff determined to marry you?”|ch1_nobleq_marry]] \n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch1_nobleq_court>>\s\n[[“Can you tell me about the court? I've only heard stories of all those high lords...”|ch1_nobleq_court]] \n<<endif>>\s\n[[I stay silent and watch the fire.|ch1_nobledinnernoquestions]]

"Thank you." Little John looks relieved. "I worry about her, with no one but those goats around if something should happen."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

"Dame Elspeth of the Round Table. Daughter of Sir Kay. Commander of the sack of Camelot. Destroyer of all my father ever built. Oathbreaker. Misguided fool."\n\n<<set $curious++>>\s\n<<set $ch2spirits_who_are_you_2 to true>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_top_free_spirit>>

<<if $black_knight_vow>>\s\n[[These must be the ruins described to me by the Black Knight. I wait for nightfall.|ch2ruins_i_want_to_see_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2ghosts and not $black_knight_vow>>\s\n[[I want to see the ghosts. I wait around until nightfall.|ch2ruins_i_want_to_see_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2crypt_visit and not $ch2room>>\s\n[[I return to the crypt.|ch2ruins_i_return_to_the_crypt]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2crypt_visit and not $ch2room>>\s\n[[I explore the ruins.|ch2ruins_i_explore_the_ruins]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2goats eq "grazing")>>\s\n[[I walk over to the goats.|ch2ruins_i_walk_over_to_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2magic_advice and ($ch2goats eq "petted")>>\s\n[[I gather the trio of billy goats.|ch2ruins_gather_goats]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if ($ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued")>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess eq "lost">>\s\n[[I search for the shepherdess.|ch2ruins_i_search_for_the_shepherdess]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess eq "trapped">>\s\n[[I return to rescue the sheperdess.|ch2ruins_i_return_to_rescue_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_search_ruins>>\s\n[[I search for another way across the river into the Deepwood.|ch2ruins_i_search_for_another_way]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2_ruin_rest>>\s\n[[I idle for a moment in the sun. It's a welcome change from the unceasing shadows of the rest of the forest.|ch2ruins_i_idle_for_a_moment]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I leave this place.|ch2ruins_i_leave_this_place]]

Faster than you thought possible, Little John returns with Allison in his arms. "I have to admit," he says. "I didn't expect to see you again. Your honesty is refreshing, and you may cross when you will."\n\n<<set $ch2cross = true>>\s\n<<set $john_romance++>>\s\n<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "rescued">>\s\n<<display ch2crossing>>

"Then you have two possible explanations," Wolf yips. "Either you and I are having a conversation, or you're talking to yourself and going insane." He veers off your path and vanishes into the forest.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_end_wolf>>

<<set $ch2time -= 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 3>>\s\nYou grab a bunch of white mushrooms. They're remarkably delicate, and many are crushed in your hand. Suddenly, you notice a small cut on your hand closing over. You remember stories of these magical mushrooms — spring bonnets — that grow only in the Deepwood. Your clumsiness ruined most of the batch, but you have enough to make a couple poultices.\n\n<<set $spring_bonnet += 2>>\s\n<<set $ch2_mushrooms = "picked">>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

"What?" she shrugs.\n\n<<display ch2start_response>>

"Thanks," Marian smiles a little. "That means a lot."\n\n<<set $spirit_strength -= $marian_romance*100>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_transfer>>

She tosses a stick into the flames and watches it spark. "What's the alternative? The death you know, or the one that might be waiting in the dark? We'll brave the Deepwood eventually, Robin, and hope for the best."\n\n<<display ch1_outlawdinnerquestions>>

<<nobr>>\n<<if $start_food>>\n"I have to say," she appraises your pack. "You look comfortably supplied for an extended stay in the forest. I'm impressed."\n<<set $renown += 500>>\n<<else>>\n"You look hungry."\n<<endif>>\nShe checks the sun. "Come on. Camp is nearby, and it’s getting late."\n<<endnobr>>\n\n<<if $start_female>>\s\n[[“There's something else you should know.” I lower my hood. “I'm a man.”|ch1marian_a_man]]\n[[“It'll be nice to have another woman around. Shall we?”|nice_to_have_another_woman_around]]\n<<else>>\s\n[[“There’s something else you should know.” I lower my hood and shake out my hair. “I’m a woman.”|ch1marian_theres_something_else_you_should]]\n[[“Man to woman, there are protocols to be observed.” I fall in beside her and offer her my arm.|ch1marian_i_fall_in_behind_her]]\n<<endif>>\s

[[“Sheriff, we finish this here.”|We_finish_this]]\n[[I cut the rope to the chandelier above the Sheriff’s head.|I_cut_the_rope]]\n[[“Here today, gone tomorrow!” I race for the door.|running_from_the_sheriff]]

"Your words as good as gold, your highness. But if you will not swear, then you will not cross. At least not for less than 5,000 gold."\n\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

Marian blows her hair out of her eyes. "Magic this, magic that. The firmament moves at my direction, you know, so whipping up a solution to an ancient curse involving the Black Knight should be easy." She pauses and dumps her books out over the ground. "I’m not saying no, Robin, but you have to buy me some time."\n\n<<set $marian_action = "magic">>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_Elspeth_and_Robin>>

<<set $ch2_staff_duel += 1>>\s\nYou battle back and forth across the fallen tree, the rapid fire give and take of two fighters who are perfectly, evenly matched blends with the roar of the river beneath your feet. Then Little John leaves his right side open. You step in to swing — <<if $ch2_staff_duel eq 1>><<display duel_fail_one>><<elseif $ch2_staff_duel eq 2>><<display duel_fail_two>><<elseif $ch2_staff_duel eq 3>><<display duel_success>><<endif>>

<<if $ch2spirits_i_watch_what_will_come and not $ch2spirits_the_Black_Knight>>\s\n[[“What? Who's the Black Knight?”|ch2spirits_the_Black_Knight]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess eq "rescued">>\s\n[[I back away from the knoll.|ch2spirits_i_back_away_from_the]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>\s\n[[I carry the shepherdess to the river crossing.|ch2spirits_i_carry_the_shepherdess_to]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I’m staying right here. I’ll find a place in the ruins to watch, in case I'm needed.”|ch2spirits_im_staying_right_here_ill]]

<<set $start_diplomacy ++>>\s\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n"I fear for the safety of every man here should calmer heads not prevail." He strides from the church. "Sheriff! I would have words with you!"\n\nOne of the maids watches through a crack in the door. "The father and the Sheriff are talking. The Sheriff is nodding, he… He ran Father Timothy through with his sword!"\n\n[[“Quickly, gather what weapons you can. We must show the Sheriff we will not meekly go as lambs to the slaughter.”|Quickly_gather_what_weapons]]\n[[I escape out the back before this becomes a deathtrap.|I_escape_out_the_back_run]]\n[[I fall to my knees and pray for salvation.|I_fall_to_my_knees]]\n\n<<display renown_explanation>>

You hear Much yammering at your back — he’s attached himself to the next nearest man. Marian claps you on the shoulder when you reach the head of the line — and Much is mostly out of earshot. She rolls her eyes in sympathy, and the day marches on.\n\n<<display ch1interlude_wolf_check>>

<<if $ch2_mushrooms neq "picked">>\s\nYou slip behind the waterfall and into the cave. The pounding water reverberates through your bones, but you're sheltered from most of the spray.\n\nA small colony of mushrooms grows in the dirt just past the entrance, while the cavern itself opens up and stretches into darkness.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2_mushrooms eq "picked">>\s\nYou slip behind the waterfall and into the cave. The pounding water reverberates through your bones, but you're sheltered from most of the spray.\n\nThe broken remains of a small colony of mushrooms lies in the dirt just past the entrance, while the cavern itself opens up and stretches into darkness.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2bearfriend>>\s\nThe bear, Bedivere, sits at the mouth of the cave, watching you.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2cave_cave_start>>

<<set $start_diplomacy++>>\s\n<<set $start_day++>>\s\n<<set $met_allison to true>>\s\nAllison, a shepherdess, meets you at the entrance to a nearby farmstead. She rests her pail on her cocked hip and listens to your plea.\n\n"We can part with food," she says. "But not without proper compensation."\n\n<<display talking_with_milkmaid>>

<<set $guy = "cursed">>\s\n<<set $bounty += 2000>>\s\n<<set $renown += 150>>\s\n\n<<display ch1_morning_nakedguy>>

You reach the stables. The smell of hay, the soft wicker of horses, and the sharp tines of several pitchforks, wielded by scared groomsmen, greets your arrival.\n\n"Robin," one of the groomsmen nearly collapses from fright. "What’s going on at the house? We heard shouting, saw the soldiers."\n\n[[“The Sheriff is after me.” I saddle Holiday, a chestnut stallion. “It’ll be better for all of you if I get out of here.”|I_saddle_holiday]]\n<<if not $I_leap_from_the_window_clever>>\s\n[[“The Sheriff’s men are plundering the house like common bandits. Grab what weapons you can and follow me. Let’s take back our home.”|The_Sheriff’s_men_are_plundering_the_house]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“The Sheriff is unlawfully seizing our home. Quickly, to the Chapel; the Sheriff will not violate the sanctity of the church.”|stable_to_Church_intro]]\n\n<<display renown_explanation>>

<<set $The_pool_is_cool to true>>\s\nThe pool is cool and clear, home to a few fish and no coin.\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>\s

<<set $silver_cross to true>>\s\n<<set $start_gold++>>\s\n<<set $gold += 750>>\s\nYou disengage from a trio of guards under cover of smoke and grab what treasures you can — plates, candlesticks, crosses. You slip a particularly ornate silver cross over your head, said to have come from Sir Gawain himself, and tuck it under your shirt. \n\nThen, your pockets and a spare sack full of treasure, you consider your options. Even with the smoke, the fighting is ongoing, neither side willing to give an inch.\n\n<<display No_retreat_No_surrender>>\n\n<<display gold_explanation>>

<<set $chapter = "1">>\s\n<<set $inventory = false>>\s\n[[You stumble, stagger, and push your way through the underbrush, fetch up against the bowl of a large tree.|The_howling_comes_closer]]

<<display ch2dinner_pirate>>

<<set $elsa_talk++>>\s\n<<if $elsa_talk gt 3>>\s\nElsa snots. "There is no more time, Robin. We ride!"\n\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2elsa_questions>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<display ch2travel_crossing>>

<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\n<<set $ch2_john_treasure = "looted">>\s\n<<if $much_present>>\s\nIt takes some time, but you and your men grab as much as you can carry from the cave.\n<<set $gold += 15000>>\s\n<<else>>\s\nIt takes some time, but you grab as much as you can carry from the cave.\n<<set $gold += 5000>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n\n<<display ch2waterfall_start>>

You ransack the study, throw piles of documents, signets, and other jewelry into a bag.\n\nA woman screams down the hall, and there’s the sound of breaking glass. You smell smoke.\n\n[[I leave the study and search for other survivors.|I_leave_the_study_search]]\n[[I keep searching the room. There’s something else here, something of great value.|I_keep_searching_the_room]]\n[[The weather’s been dry; the house will catch in a heartbeat. I need to go.|The_weather’s_been_dry]]

"Thank you. I have a not unreasonable fear of pitchforks and torches."\n\n<<set $friends = true>>\s\n<<display ch1_magicdinnerquestions>>

<<set $start_stealth++>>\s\n<<set $bounty += 250>>\s\n<<display I_escape_out_the_back>>\n\n<<display bounty_explanation>>

"Nope." Little John squints at the horn. "No sense making ghosts angry, seeing as how you've already secured your crossing. Keep it, or return it, as you like.\n\n<<set $ch2quest_complete = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_top>>

Rosalind’s face scrunches up and she considers your terse response. "You’re welcome," you hear her whispering to herself. "I suppose I could go back and help Marian, not that she needs my help. Does he even want me around? What kind of answer is you’re welcome?" \n\n[[“It means you’re welcome. I’m always happy to help.”|ch1interlude_ros_welcomehappy]]\n[[I pretend not to have heard Rosalind's comment.|ch1interlude_pretend]]\n[[“Excuse me.” I lengthen my stride catch up to Marian.|ch1interlude_excuse]]

She pauses. "Do you believe in redemption, Robin? That I might be forgiven for my sins?"\n\n[[“I forgive you, for what it’s worth.”|ch2spirits_i_forgive_you_for_what]]\n[[“Well, you can certainly try for it.”|ch2spirits_well_you_can_certainly_try]]\n<<if $silver_cross>>\s\n[[“Come, let us pray.” I take my cross in hand.|ch2spirits_come_let_us_pray_i]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[I say nothing.|ch2spirits_i_say_nothing]]

<<if $marian is "outlaw">>\s\nMarian mimes a curtsy. "I was daughter to Earl Thomas of Woodbridge, before the Sheriff did the same." She looks you in the eye. "We'll make them pay, Robin, I swear. But for now, lay off any noble conceit. We have to work together as friends and isuals if we're to have any chance at revenge."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian is "noble">>\s\nMarian drops into a curtsy. "I was daughter to Earl Thomas of Woodbridge, before the Sheriff did the same." She looks around at the trees. "Will Scarlet, the reclusive King's Warden, guards this forest. If we can find him, gain his support and that of his men..." She looks away. "I get ahead of myself. One thing at a time, and that's dinner."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $marian is "magic">>\s\nMarian picks a strand of hair off her shoulder. "My father was Earl Thomas of Woodbridge, before the Sheriff had him arrested on charges of black magic. I heard the Sheriff's men talking of him as they swept through my father's castle." She scuffs the grass with her feet. "They said the Earl of Locksley was killed attempting to escape. I'm sorry.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<set $noble = true>>\s\n<<set $grace += 2>>\s\n<<set $noble_perk = 3>>\s\n<<display ch1marian_gender>>\n<<display perks_tooltip>>

John grins. "The Deepwood's a terrifying place, unless you know how to handle it. I do, and I've a plan. See, I..." He stops himself. "Bah, you've got trouble and I've got business. I won't bore you with dreams of what'll never come around."\n\n<<set $ch2johnquestions_you_dream_of_living_in to true>>\s\n<<set $personal++>>\s\n<<display ch2johnquestions_personal_questions>>

<<set $ch2time -= 8>>\s\n<<set $ch2_daylight -= 10>>\s\n<<if $ch2ruin_walk>>\s\nYou return to the grass covered knoll. Toppled blocks of stone outline the foundations of an ancient fort, and a small herd of goats grazes peacefully in the grass.\n\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>\s\nYou think you hear a woman's cry carried on the wind.\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2ruin_walk>>\s\n<<set $ch2ruin_walk = true>>\s\nYou climb a series of small hills. The trees become shorter and spread further apart, until the forest opens up around the grass covered knoll. Toppled blocks of stone outline the foundations of an ancient fort, and a small herd of goats grazes peacefully in the grass.\n\n<<if $yeoman>>\s\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess neq "rescued">>\s\nThis is no wild herd. There should be a shepherd, or rather, a shepherdess, if the bows woven around the goats' horns are any indication.\n\n<<if $ch2_shepherdess eq "unknown">>\s\n<<set $ch2_shepherdess = "late">>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $ch2magic_advice>>\s\nThe goats remind you of an old story. Billy goats and trolls have a particularly contentious relationship. The goats, who enjoy crossing bridges, have little patience for both tolls and trolls. Now, Little John doesn't look like a troll…\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<endif>>\s\n<<display ch2ruins>>

<<if not $pirate_king>>\s\n[[“It's a pirate's life for me.”|ch2dinner_it's_a_pirate's_life_for]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $pirate_king and $male>>\s\n[[“Then I'd be a pirate king!”|ch2dinner_then_i'd_be_a_pirate]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $pirate_king and $female>>\s\n[[“Then I'd be a pirate queen!”|ch2dinner_then_i'd_be_a_pirate_2]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $royal and $male and not $pirate_king>>\s\n[[“I'd be King, of course.”|ch2dinner_i'd_be_king_of_course]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $royal and $female and not $pirate_king>>\s\n[[“I'd be Queen, of course.”|ch2dinner_i'd_be_queen_of_course]]\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if not $ch2dinner_i_might_become_a_farmer>>\s\n[[“I might become a farmer. Or open a tavern, or a shop.”|ch2dinner_i_might_become_a_farmer]]\n<<endif>>\s\n[[“I'm not sure who I am anymore. I won't pretend to be someone else.”|ch2dinner_im_not_sure_who_i]]

You move into the ruins to find a vantage on the coming battle when you stub your toe on something. It turns out to be a breastplate, lacquered black, with a hole neatly punched through its chest.\n\n<<if $possessed eq "Rosalind">>\s\n"That’s the armor of the legendary Black Knight. And that," Marian points to the hole, "is a deathblow."\n\n<<endif>>\s\n<<if $wolf>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_unicorn>>\n<<else>>\s\n<<display ch2spirits_arrival>>\n<<endif>>\s

<<set $ch2crossing_mo_barter to true>>\s\nMarian shrugs. "I won't put a value on your possessions. But you can offer something, and if John accepts we'll get across the river that much faster."\n\n<<set $ch2_barter = true>>\s\n<<display ch2crossing_outlawchoices_top>>

<<display ch2crypt_take_horn>>