He was seen as unpopular by the people, who wanted the imprisoned King Richard back. He also lived in constant fear of the barons who were growing daily more hostile to his power. Several of these barons had set out to collect the ransom that would release King Richard the Lionheart from his jail in Austria. Robin had been discreetly asked to join, in return for future amnesty. It was a dangerous proposition.
Provincial banditry is one thing, court intrigue another.
Prince John was known for his vindictiveness. If the gamble failed he would personally see to it that all involved were crushed. The sound of the supper horn startled Robin from his thoughts. There was the smell of roasting venison in the air. Nothing had been resolved.