Yes, it's me, the champion of justice, the sharp-shooting wonder, the original man in tights, the one and only Robin Hood. You've no doubt heard of my merry adventures. Some of them are even true ... not really.

 

In reality, I was just a common man who didn't want to pay his taxes, so naturally I took to highway robbery. True, I may have stuck out my neck for an underdog here and there, but I assure you, it was for entirely selfish reasons. I mean, no sane person would give everything he steals to the poor. That and I was eager to impress Marian, that smoking babe.

 

At the peak of it all, it seemed we would live happily ever after, especially when the good King Richard returned to England to set things right.

If only that were true.

 

Here in Nottingham, there are more problems than I or a king could ever solve ... especially when the king is the problem. For injustice, it seems, never ends ... unlike life. Eventually the bowstring sags, the paunch hangs out, and there's nothing we can do watch and enjoy the show while others do all the work.

 

Don't look at me like that. It's exactly what you're doing.

Here we have the next generation of tyranny, the son of my the sheriff of Nottingham, my old rival. And to instruct the boy in the art of injustice is one of the trusted advisors of my arch enemy, the slimy Prince John -- may he never return. I give you, the spawn of Satan, Lord Elric.

NOTTINGHAM!

NOTTINGHAM!

HOME OF THE WEARY

AND THE HELPLESS

AND THE SICK.

 

NOTTINGHAM!

NOTTINGHAM!

A LORD CAN TAKE AHOLD

OF ANYTHING HE PICKS.

ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER BURDEN.

I MUST LABOR THROUGH A LIFETIME

IN THE HEAT.

TEARING MY SKIN,

FILLED WITH BLISTERS,

BEARING TORTURE

FOR A MEAGRE SHEAF OF WHEAT.

I HATE TO RAIN UPON YOUR PARTY,

BUT THE SHERIFF CARRIES NEWS.

HEAR KING RICHARD'S FIRM DECREE

OF WHICH NO ONE CAN REFUSE.

TO FUND HIS MAJESTY'S GOOD SOLDIERS

WITH SUCH BURDENS ON THEIR BACKS,

WE HAVE COME TO CLAIM ANOTHER HUMBLE TAX.

MY LORD, I FEAR YOU ARE MISTAKEN,

FOR YOU CAME TO US LAST WEEK.

TIMES OF TROUBLE CALL FOR MORE.

YOU FORGET WE'RE IN A WAR.

MERCY, PLEASE, MY LORD, I BEG THEE,

FOR I'VE NOTHING LEFT TO GIVE.

YOU WILL PAY YOUR PORTION IF YOU WANT TO LIVE.

SO WE TOIL AND SWEAT

THROUGH THE PAIN AND THREATS

AS THE WAGES OF OUR LABORS SLIP AWAY.

 

EVERY PENNY TOSSED

IS A VISION LOST.

WILL THERE EVER BE A BRIGHTER DAY?

IF I GIVE WHAT'S REQUIRED,

WE WILL SURELY FACE STARVATION BY AND BY.

THEN LET IT BE AS GOD HAS WILLED IT.

TIMES OF WAR REQUIRE US ALL

TO FIGHT OR DIE.

HOW CAN YOU BE SO HEARTLESS?

I'M A SHERIFF, NOT A JUDGE.

IF YOU'VE NOTHING HERE TO BRING,

TAKE YOUR GRIEVANCE TO THE KING.

HE HAS NEVER SEEN OR HEARD US --

AND I DOUBT HE EVER WILL.

GUARD YOUR WORDS OR MARK ME,

PEASANT BLOOD WILL SPILL.

Will you pay your tax or not?

How can I?

Chain her up. Let her be an example to those who defy the king.

SO WE TOIL AND SWEAT

THROUGH THE PAIN AND THREATS

AS THE WAGES OF OUR LABORS SLIP AWAY.

 

EVERY PENNY TOSSED

IS A VISION LOST.

WILL THERE EVER BE A BRIGHTER DAY?

If Robin Hood were here --

Robin Hood is dead, and you should thank King Richard for putting an end to that menacing bandit.

ROBIN HOOD!

ROBIN HOOD!

HOW COULD YOU LEAVE

WHEN TERROR DOMINATES?

ROBIN HOOD!

ROBIN HOOD!

IF YOU FIGHT, YOU'LL FACE A SIM'LAR FATE.

WITH SO MUCH TO BEAR,

RICHARD WAS OUR PRAYER,

BUT IN THE END

HE TURNED OUT LIKE THE REST.

 

SO WE TOIL AND SWEAT

THROUGH THE PAIN AND THREATS

AS THE WAGES OF OUR LABORS SLIP AWAY.

 

EVERY PENNY TOSSED

WILL THERE EVER BE A BRIGHTER DAY?

Take her to the prison. I'll deal with the rest.

Out of my way, old hag.

What about your bag?

I said hag.

And I said what about your bag?

Do you understand a word I'm saying?

Yes, I love this game we're playing.

She's not worth your time.

You want to play too?

Do you know who you're speaking to?

The devil?

This man is the honorable sheriff of Nottingham.

This man, the sheriff of Nottingham?

And why is that funny?

Everyone knows the sheriff is a bitter, old loony, haunted by the ghost of Robin Hood, may he rest in peace.

Impudent witch, you're referring to the sheriff's father. This man is his son, Hawk, the new sheriff.

The scourge of England, the terror of the poor, this baby-faced boy?

I thought the king only employs imps as sheriffs. This lad is far too handsome to be an imp.

By order of his Highness, King Richard, as part of an increased effort to fund the expansion of the empire, all residents of Nottingham --

Why do you think I hobbled all the way here? For the thrill of paying my taxes.

You've brought payment?

My daughter has it.

She lies. I'm not her daughter.

Now, deary, don't be difficult. I have every intention of giving our good King Richard what he deserves. Where did you put it?

There. Since we had to eat the goose, and his highness already took our chickens, that leaves this sumptuous rat. After all, a king deserves the best.

Get that thing away from me.

You would deny a humble subject the privilege of supporting her king?

Lock her up as well.

Now he's talking like an imp.

Attacking an old woman? He's just like his father.

How many crones are there in this village?

I'm warning you ...

No I'm warning you. While your king gluts himself on their food, these people are starving to death. But they will not die for a murderer.

How dare you?

Your king killed Robin Hood and his men.

Our king rid this country of a filthy band of robbers.

Because his majesty hates competition.

If your Robin Hood was such a wonder, how was he defeated in a single skirmish?

He had no reason to suspect treachery from Richard, nor could anyone withstand the combined armies of England.

Those who fight against law must face justice.

You call stealing from the poor justice?

The only stealing was done by your Robin Hood, may he burn in hell.

It's time for you to go.

And who do you think you are, Robin Hood's mother?

No. I'm his daughter.

That's my girl!

It's one of the Sherwood brats Richard told us to look for.

Seize her.

Seize them.

Run!

Your courage and wit are commendable, though your politics are misguided, and your swordplay leaves something to be desired.

Aspen, quick!

You're holding it too high.

Oh, thank you. Now stand back. I'm warning you.

Where's your anchor? Don't straighten your arm too much. Bend it slightly.

Don't take another step.

Or what?

I tried to teach her. Really, I did.

I did that on purpose. If you'll look closely, you'll see that the arrow is protruding exactly from the rat's heart.

Your point being?

That could have been your heart.

Are you sure it's through the heart?

It's dead, isn't it?

Wasn't it already dead?

That's beside the point.

Shall we take these women captive instead?

I would hate to make new martyrs.

Tell his majesty he may have stomped out a spark, but the fire burns on.

If I'm not mistaken, I defeated you, so I'm the one entitled to demands. Tell your ragtag amazons that England will never rest until the pitiful embers of your dying rebellion are quenched once and for all.

You have not seen the last of the Order of Robin Hood.

For my sake, my lady, I sincerely hope not.

That's right. Run away!

Are you our new Robin Hood?

Will you protect us?

My father's dearest wish was that every man and woman could learn to defend themselves against tyranny. You don't need another Robin Hood. You just need courage.

But should you also need assistance, you'll find us in the Sherwood.

Speaking of which, there's my honey bodkin. She only gets better with age.

And over there is the daughter of one of my best men, Will Scarlet. She certainly inherited Will's flamboyant sense of fashion. Though who that mysterious, cloaked figure is, I can't say.

Shall we begin?

Shouldn't we wait for Aspen and her friends?

The longer we delay, the longer the poor will suffer.

Poverty is terrible, but so is revolution. Let us not be hasty to gamble with innocent lives.

We've been planning this for years. It's too late to back down. And I need not remind you, dear matriarch, that, with the passing of our men, the office of chief yeoman has fallen to me.

And I need not remind you that this was only because I refused the office, and Aspen was too young.

Which was a shame, because Aspen would have been a better leader in every way. Except fighting ... and organization ... and common sense.

As we speak, our spies are in neighboring towns, preparing the peasantry for attack. We even have some nobles on our side.

We can't stand against the armies of England.

I did ... until they killed me.

Most of Richard's armies are in France. There's never been a better time to strike.

We lack armor, weapons, troops.

One of the lords, a sworn enemy of Richard, has made some generous contributions to our cause. He even has a puppet in the castle who can open the gates as soon as we're ready. All we lack is the command of the council ... or, if we cannot agree ... my command.

You were still young on that fateful night. I doubt you remember the cry of alarm, the rush to safety as our brave men faced the enemy alone and outnumbered. And then to return and see them ... all of them ... bloody, lifeless, as still as stone, their hopes, ambitions, dreams ... all gone, and for what? These were our boys! Lady Scarlet, if you have your way, you will bring many more boys -- and girls -- to the same fate.

I was not too young to remember. Why do you think I care so much? I miss my daddy, and I must avenge him. Anything less would be wrong. If justice is to be served, there is a price that must be paid. Joan, present the agenda.

Welcome, to the council of merry women. We will begin with a round of stretches.

Stretches?

That's what it says.

Reach down ... touch your toes ... stand up straight ... arms out ... forward circles. Tree pose. Repeat after me. I am a free-thinking tree.

I am free-thinking tree.

I take orders from no one.

I take order from no one.

Move on!

We'd like to thank Gisela Stutley for her extraordinary presentation on thorn-resistant pantyhose and Meg Adale for her thought-provoking lecture on the ethics of highway robbery. We'd also like to thank our fearless leader, Fifi Scarlet --

Lady Scarlet.

-- for never ceasing to amuse us with these most entertaining and highly necessary meetings. I her generosity, she will be providing drinks for everyone.

What?

And we would like to award her this crown of honor, which you will find in the chest near your feet.

This is Aspen's handwriting.

We smashed them.

Creamed them.

They ran away like cowards.

Not really.

You mean you fought?

In a manner of speaking.

I wouldn't call it fighting.

Aspen ...

I know, I'm all you have left, and you don't want to lose me. But has it ever occurred to you that I have a will of my own?

You're not a fighter.

Because you never let me train, and now I'm a disgrace to the family name.

You don't have to be your father.

I don't have to be my mother either.

Aspen was brilliant, Lady Marian.

Beatrice and Isabella were brilliant. Soon all of England will hear of their valiant deeds, and the king will learn that we will never rest until he gives up his crown.

No king gives up his crown.

Richard will step down, or he'll die.

Surely the souls of our fathers will never rest until this soil is bathed in Richard's blood.

Actually, we sleep fine.

Your fathers spent their lives fighting for peace. You must finish their work, not undo it.

Imagine a country with no king.

A queen would be better.

Before the Normans invaded, no one ruled the island, and the only law was God's word. That could be our future.

Good lord, you're ignorant. Someone must govern.

Heaven forbid we should govern ourselves.

Was the sheriff there?

Aspen made such a fool of him.

You would have made your father proud.

Darn right ... mostly.

I don't know if anyone noticed, but we were holding a council.

Sorry. Welcome to the meeting. Was he handsome?

Ridiculously.

He's a slimy puppet for King Richard.

At least someone's talking sense.

And how are the people holding out?

No one would stand up for themselves. It's as if they've forgotten everything father taught them.

It calls for an organized fight. But how can we do anything when members of our own ranks run off, jeopardizing our mission?

Must I ask your permission every time I leave the forest?

So it was with Robin Hood.

I think she's enjoying this a little too much.

How many peasants did you save today? Give me a number.

It's not about numbers.

None then.

One, and that's more than you can say.

Have you been so blind? We're about to transform the entire nation.

Violence only breeds more violence. There's a better way.

No there's not.

Stand if you're with the revolution against King Richard.

No more reckless adventures. It's time for real change.

FAWL-CHA OW-IN GRAW SLEE-VEEN

DREE-UH CREE M-YALLA SEAR-SHA

A NEW DAY'S BEGINNING TO DAWN.

WE'RE FIN'LY ABOUT TO MOVE ON.

THE TOWERS OF TYRANTS ARE CRUMBLING

BENEATH THE SHOUTS.

 

PEOPLE ARE GATH'RING TO FIGHT,

CALLING FOR THEIR LEADER.

FOR THEIR LEADER!

And who would that be?

WE'VE SUFFERED FOR TOO MANY YEARS.

TAKE COURAGE AND CONQUER YOUR FEARS.

DOWN WITH THE NOBLES

AND UP WITH THE COMMON FOLK.

 

SOON RICH AND POOR SHALL BE ONE

IN OUR NEW KINGDOM.

NEW KINGDOM!

FAWL-CHA OW-IN GRAW SLEE-VEEN

DREE-UH CREE M-YALLA SEAR-SHA ...

SOMEHOW I MISSED ALL THE COUNCILS

ON REVOLUTION.

RATHER CONVENIENT

I'M BANNED FROM ATTENDING.

I'VE ONLY UNINVITED

THOSE WHO MAKE NO CONTRIBUTIONS,

BLOCKING OUR PROGRESS

AND RULES ALWAYS BENDING.

SOME OF US DON'T LIKE

THE THOUGHT OF COMMITTEES

DECIDING OUR FORTUNES

THE WHOLE COUNTRYWIDE.

You prefer King Richard?

I prefer ... to go hunting.

That’s the problem with you, Aspen, always avoiding the real problems ... the big problems.

WHAT MAKES YOU MORE FIT TO RULE

THAN ALL THOSE WHOM YOU RIDICULE?

I AM THE PEOPLE'S BEST INTEREST,

THEIR CHOSEN VOICE.

YOU'RE CERTAIN YOU SURVEYED THEM ALL,

BECAUSE NO ONE ASKED ME.

NO ONE ASKED ME.

Why must you be so difficult? Is this not what your father always wanted?

FAWL-CHA OW-IN GRAW SLEE-VEEN

DREE-UH CREE M-YALLA SEER-SHA ...

COME WON'T YOU JOIN IN OUR

GLORIOUS REVOLUTION ...

COME WON'T YOU JOIN IN OUR

GLORIOUS REVOLUTION ...

DECIDING THE FATES OF ALL, COUNTRYWIDE,

WILL SHE EVER BE SATISFIED?

DECIDING THE FATES OF ALL, COUNTRYWIDE,

WILL SHE EVER BE SATISFIED?

CAN THERE BE NO OTHER WAY?

JUSTICE DEMANDS THEM TO PAY.

WHY SHOULD WE BACK DOWN?

WHAT CAUSE COULD BE HIGHER?

SURELY YOU KNOW

WE ARE PLAYING WITH FIRE.

IF YOU'RE NOT WITH US

YOU MUST BE AGAINST US.

NO SENSE IN STALLING,

THE PEOPLE ARE CALLING!

HEY DIGGA DEE DIGGA DAY

DIGGA DIGGA DIGGA ...

LA DEE DA ...

LA DEE DA ...

BLOODY MEANS,

AND MANY WILL DIE.

WILL THE ENDS

JUSTIFY?

AH ...

 

Well, are you with us? We attack on Friday.

This is not how it's done. Robin would have never waged war against his own sovereign.

Though I probably should have.

I believe there's a middle ground where we can find both peace and violence ... in nature. You should join us.

You try my patience.

A necessary virtue for one who aspires to become queen. Good day, your highness.

Don't you dare return to Nottingham.

I'll go where I please!

Don't speak back to your mother!

Marian! I'll have a talk with Aspen.

They must not jeopardize our mission. Keep an eye on them.

A band of women?

Yes, your majesty, and they're recruiting the peasantry to their cause. It may be time to clean out the Sherwood again.

I'm expanding the British empire, waging war against powerful forces in foreign lands, an unbelievable cost in gold, provisions, and lives, and you're asking me to spare a hundred men to take on a band of women?

They're unusually brave women.

This is why I avoid setting foot in England. It's nothing but trouble. If I could have found a buyer, I would have already sold London itself.

I fear there will be an uprising.

They already deposed John. Will they get rid of their rightful king as ordained by God? While I take on France, I trust you can see to a band of women.

It could prevent a war.

We're already at war!

Just give me fifty men.

If you'll excuse me, I must see to the kitchen. Unless my nose is failing me, strawberry custard awaits.

Next time let me do the talking. You have yet to learn how to address those in power.

I told him the truth.

The truth isn't good enough. It takes flattery, finesse.

Is it always this hard?

Everything was better under Prince John. Your father and I faithfully served him for years while Richard, this so-called king, forsook his kingdom. John may have had his faults, but at least he cared for his country.

Where is John now?

Exiled, of course. But it's only a matter of time before Richard disappears again. And when he does --

My nose did fail me. It was raisin custard, which I can't stand. ... Why are you two still here?

Forgive me, my lord. We were just --

Did I ever tell you about the Battle of Arsuf?

Why, no. Do tell.

My men and I had just taken the city of Acre, the most tactical point in the Holy Land, when, suddenly, it happened ...

Just smile and nod.

WE WERE MARCHING ALONG THE COAST,

WHEN THE ARABS' INNUMEROUS HOST

ATTACKED WITH A VOLLEY OF ARROWS,

SCARING US ALL HALF TO DEATH.

STILL I ORDERED, "STAY FIRM IN YOUR RANKS"

AS WE SUFFERED THE BLOWS AT OUR FLANKS.

NOTHING WOULD DRIVE US TO SCATTER,

THOUGH MY MEN BEGGED ME TO FIGHT.

 

WHEN THE ARABS SAW NO OTHER WAY,

THEIR RECKLESS FOOTMEN CHARGED INTO THE FRAY.

FIN'LY, UNSHEATHING MY BROADSWORD,

I SHOUTED THESE HEARTENING WORDS:

 

FOR THE CHRISTIANS,

FOR THE NATIONS,

FOR THE FUTURE

GENERATIONS,

 

THERE'S A DUTY

WE ARE BOUND TO

WITH OUR BLOOD.

 

FOR THE CHRISTIANS,

FOR THE NATIONS,

FOR THE FUTURE

GENERATIONS

 

WITH OUR COURAGE, WITH OUR MIGHT,

WE MUST SLAUGHTER LEFT AND RIGHT.

UNTIL NONE ARE LEFT TO FIGHT,

WE WILL GO DOWN LIKE KNIGHTS.

Watch and learn.

NO DOUBT, A PIVOTAL MOMENT,

PERHAPS THE GREATEST THERE EVER HAS BEEN.

BUT LEGENDS ARE STILL BEING WRITTEN.

DUTY IS CALLING AGAIN.

 

THESE ARE NO REGULAR WOMEN.

ALL OF ENGLAND IS UNDER THEIR SPELL.

THEY'RE LEADING THE PEOPLE AGAINST YOU,

BEWITCHING WITH POWERS FROM HELL.

You take me for a fool.

Look at this.

The daughter of Robin Hood shot this tiny target right through the heart from an extraordinary distance. Is it not true, Hawk?

Uh ...

Are you sure it's through the heart?

It's dead, isn't it? Clearly their skill is beyond compare.

 

OUR RIVALS HAVE GOT US SURROUNDED.

ANY MOMENT, THEY'LL SPRING AN ATTACK.

HAVE YOU THE HEART OF A LION?

THIS IS NO TIME TO LOOK BACK.

FOR THE CHRISTIANS ...

FOR THE NATIONS ...

FOR THE FUTURE ...

GENERATIONS ...

THERE'S A DUTY

WE ARE BOUND TO

WITH OUR BLOOD.

 

FOR THE CHRISTIANS,

FOR THE NATIONS,

FOR THE FUTURE

GENERATIONS,

 

WITH OUR COURAGE, WITH OUR MIGHT,

WE MUST SLAUGHTER LEFT AND RIGHT.

UNTIL NONE ARE LEFT TO FIGHT,

WE WILL GO DOWN LIKE KNIGHTS.

IF WE'RE GOING TO DEFEND,

WE'LL NEED A THOUSAND MEN.

PLEASE DON'T MAKE ME LAUGH.

I WILL GIVE YOU HALF.

 

YOU WILL DO NO HARM

TO THE DAUGHTER OF ROBIN HOOD.

WHY SHOULD YOU CARE?

TELL ME, DO YOU SWEAR?

THE THINGS I DO

ARE NO CONCERN TO YOU.

BY MY TROTH,

I WILL GIVE MY OATH --

FOR THE DAUGHTER OF ROBIN HOOD.

FOR THE CHRISTIANS ...

FOR THE CHRISTIANS ...

FOR THE NATIONS ...

FOR THE NATIONS ...

FOR THE FUTURE ...

FOR THE FUTURE ...

GENERATIONS ...

GENERATIONS ...

WITH OUR COURAGE, WITH OUR MIGHT,

WE MUST SLAUGHTER LEFT AND RIGHT.

WITH NO CARE FOR WRONG OR RIGHT,

WE'LL KILL EVERYTHING IN SIGHT!

UNTIL NONE ARE LEFT TO FIGHT,

WE WILL GO DOWN LIKE KNIGHTS.

GO DOWN LIKE KNIGHTS.

GO DOWN LIKE KNIGHTS.

I think it went this way.

I've got it.

We don't want to be shot. My job is to kill. Yours is to entertain us.

You were saying about the council?

When did everything become so serious? We used to be about helping old ladies and making fools of authority figures. Now everything's about changing laws and saving the nation. We're the merry women! Let's be merry, shall we?

We've got it cornered.

Why not change our hearts instead? As father always said, "Law is a poor substitute for honor."

I'm pretty sure I never said that.

I know Richard must fall, but must Scarlet take her place?

Imagine having one of our own on the throne, someone who knows the poor.

Scarlet doesn't know a single peasant in Nottingham. She's far too busy waving her fist in the air to talk to a real person.

If one didn't know better, she might think you're jealous.

Perhaps I am.

Shouldn't you see what it is before you shoot it?

If it has flesh, I'll eat it. I'm hungry.

What if it's one of the king's venison? You could be hanged.

We've been eating the king's venison for decades.

But after today, the king's men are going to be looking for us.

Curse you, mother, for making me weak. And curse you, father, for abandoning me. How am I supposed to carry on your work when every path leads to tyranny? Why did you have to leave us like this?

If only you knew how much it hurts me.

Come to mommy, you sweet, fat beast.

AH ...

Are you really singing right now?

AH ...

Stop!

Oh, not him.

WHAT ARE THE ODDS?

IMAGINE THE HONOR.

HAVE WE BEEN HUNTING

THE SHERIFF HIMSELF?

THINK WHAT YOU WILL,

BUT YOU WERE THE HUNTED,

CARELESSLY LACKING IN STEALTH.

HOW HE CAN TALK!

UNLESS I'M MISTAKEN,

YOU WERE THE ONE

NEARLY SHOT LIKE A BIRD.

I KNOW YOU WOULD NEVER

MURDER IN COLD BLOOD,

NOT FROM THE STORIES I'VE HEARD.

DEAR ME THIS IS RICH.

THE SHERIFF OF NOTTINGHAM

CONSIDERS HIMSELF

AN INNOCENT MAN!

I TRAVELED ALONE.

I CAME UNPROTECTED

ONLY TO TELL YOU OUR PLAN.

 

WE'VE HEARD THE TALK OF REVOLUTION,

THE PEASANTS RISING

AGAINST THE CROWN.

WE CAN FIND A BETTER SOLUTION,

A WAY OF PEACE,

IF YOU'LL BACK DOWN.

IF I WERE YOU,

I WOULDN'T HAVE TOLD US,

YOU HAVEN'T A SWORD

AND CAME HERE ALONE.

PERHAPS WE SHOULD HEAR HIM.

WHERE ARE YOUR MANNERS?

HE IS A GUEST IN OUR HOME.

I FEAR THERE IS MORE.

FOR PROTECTING THE COUNTRY,

I'VE FIVE-HUNDRED MEN

PREPARED TO USE FORCE.

 

GIVE ME AN OATH,

OR PUTTING IT BLUNTLY,

THE FATE OF YOUR SISTERS

IS YOURS.

LET'S TAKE HIM WHILE WE CAN.

THEN THERE WILL BE NO ONE

TO GIVE COMMAND.

THAT'S JUST THE KIND OF

JUSTIFCATION

THEY'D NEED TO SLAUGHTER

OUR MERRY BAND.

I THOUGHT YOU WOULD SEE THE REASON.

TO BATTLE TREASON I'M DUTY-BOUND.

WE CAN FIND A BETTER SOLUTION,

A WAY OF PEACE,

IF YOU'LL BACK DOWN.

... THE USUAL CAUSE FOR

MURDER AND TYRANNY.

I'VE HEARD ENOUGH FROM

HIS TREACHEROUS TONGUE.

FORGIVE WHAT I SAID

OF YOUR FATHER AND VILLAINY.

YOU AND I BOTH WERE SO YOUNG.

 

DISSOLVE THIS BAND OF HIGHWAYS ROBBERS,

AND TO YOUR KING YOU MUST MAKE YOUR VOW.

THAT, I'M AFRAID, I CANNOT.

FOR MY CONSCIENCE WILL NOT ALLOW.

WE CAN FIND A BETTER SOLUTION,

A WAY OF PEACE,

IF YOU'LL BACK DOWN.

THANK YOU FOR WARNING

THAT DANGER IS SWARMING.

THERE'S SOMETHING I'LL DO IN RETURN.

 

FORGET ABOUT HIGHWAYS.

WE'RE COMING ON FRIDAY,

AND NOTTINGHAM CASTLE WILL BURN.

 

IF PEACE IS YOUR AIM,

THEN UNLESS YOU'RE INSANE,

YOU WILL GATHER YOUR MEN TO DEFEND.

IF THIS IS A LIE,

AND YOU'RE LEADING AWRY,

THEN YOUR BANDITS

ARE NEARING THEIR END.

DESPITE HOW THEY'RE TRYING,

THERE'S JUST NO DENYING,

IT'S CLEAR THEY WERE DESTINED TO FIGHT.

 

THEIR BOUND'RIES ARE BLURRED.

IT'S COMPLETELY ABSURD,

BUT I'M FEELING THE MAGIC TONIGHT!

WE CAN FIND A BETTER SOLUTION,

A WAY OF PEACE,

IF YOU'LL BACK DOWN.

WE CAN FIND A BETTER SOLUTION,

A WAY OF PEACE,

IF YOU'LL BACK DOWN.

The revolution's happening on Friday?

And if you care about Nottingham, you'll be there to stop it, not wasting your time here.

You would betray your own band?

Some of us disagree on the means for achieving peace.

We shall see on Friday whether you're a scoundrel or not. If so, expect us on Saturday.

Now leave.

Beatrice, it's almost dinner time, and the sheriff must be hungry.

I should be going.

Won't you join us for dinner?

Hold on.

Surely you can't say no to Maid Marian's famous stew.

I'm not sure I'm intimidated.

Stew sounds nice.

Wonderful. Now we must blind you.

What?

What's this for?

We can't have you discovering our secret hideout, can we?

Steady. Don't worry, I've got you.

Must you stand so close to him?

Now she's enjoying this a little too much.

Voila! Make yourself comfortable. We'll be with you shortly.

This time you've gone too far, divulging our plans to the enemy.

And what if we're surrounded by enemies on all sides?

I just think you ought to look before you leap.

My conscience is clear.

That's precisely the problem.

And why bring him to dinner?

He's our guest.

He's our enemy!

Then let's make our enemy into our guest. My father would do this all the time.

True story.

Goodness gracious.

Mother, I'd like you to meet the sheriff of Nottingham.

I hear you're slimy and evil.

Well ... I ...

Is the stew ready?

I'll worry about that. You're in charge of entertainment.

Always my fate.

It's the sheriff! She brought him to our camp?

Never mind that. How's my hair?

My lady, as I was trying to tell you, they met him in the forest, and Aspen told him all about our --

I should have known this was Aspen's doing.

My lady, wait. This is important.

Aspen, you have some nerve, bringing a man here without my --

You must be Lady Scarlet. I've heard of you.

You have?

While I don't share the views of your band on ... anything ... I'm nevertheless impressed by the way you've organized all this. It's no small thing, living as outlaws in the woods.

Well, it's certainly not an easy, but someone has to do it.

Perhaps we have more in common than one might suppose.

Perhaps we do.

May I have your attention, please?

 

For your evening entertainment, Beatrice, Isabella, and I --

We did not sign up for this.

-- will now perform a stirring ballad of love and passion, tragedy hope, a fight for freedom over security, as expressed in an old sailor's shanty.

Taught to her by yours truly.

I WAS SHACKLED TO A SAILOR

WHO LOVED A PINT OF ALE.

EVERY TIME HE SAILED.

I WROTE HIM EVERY DAY,

AND HE NEVER WOULD REPLY,

BUT EVERY TIME HE CAME BACK,

HE'D BOX ME IN THE EYE.

THEN ONE DAY I SAID

I THINK I'VE HAD ENOUGH.

THOUGH YOU'RE TALL AND HANDSOME,

YOU HAVEN'T GOT THE STUFF.

 

HE SAID THAT I WOULD NEVER

SURVIVE THIS WORLD ALONE.

I TOLD HIM I WOULD RATHER

CHANCE UPON MY OWN.

OOH ...

THEN ON A SUNNY DAY,

I MET ANOTHER BOY,

WHO ONLY HAD A FARM,

BUT HOW WE DID ENJOY

 

THE SIMPLE THINGS

LIKE APRICOTS

AND STROLLING THROUGH THE TREES.

AND EVERY TIME WE MET,

HE GAVE ME SUCH A SQUEEZE.

THOUGH TO BE HIS GIRL,

MEANT A LIFE OF GRU'LING CHORES,

NEVER DID I MISS

THE DARKER DAYS BEFORE.

 

THE SAILOR HAD TO WATCH

WHILE WE FROLICKED HAND IN HAND,

LAUGHING AS WE SHOWED OFF

OUR GOLDEN WEDDING BANDS.

The second verse is when it gets good.

BEFORE WE TIED THE KNOT,

THE SAILOR INTERPOSED,

WITH TEMPER UNCONTROLLED.

THEY THREW A PUNCH OR TWO,

TILL MY LOVER TOOK THE FIST.

THE OTHER DRAGGED ME WITH HIM,

SAILING THROUGH THE MIST.

OOH ...

BUT WHEN I TURNED AROUND,

I SAW MY SAVING GRACE.

MY LOVER HAD A SHIP

AND WAS BEATING OUT THE RACE.

 

CLIMBING ON THE DECK,

A SWORD BETWEEN HIS TEETH.

THEY BATTLED ON FOR HOURS,

NOT A MOMENT OF RELIEF.

FINALLY I SAID

I THINK I'VE HAD ENOUGH.

MARCHING TO THE SAILOR,

I TOOK HIM BY THE SCRUFF

 

AND CAST HIM OVERBOARD

AS A DINNER FOR THE FISH.

ALONE THEN WITH MY LOVER,

I GOT MY GIRLISH --

WISH!

SAILING BY THE MOONLIGHT,

HE HELD ME, AND WE KISSED.

Bravo! There's something magical about this place. I can see why you stay here.

And how is the stew?

I dare say I've never had tastier meat.

Not everyone likes venison.

Did you say venison?

As in the king's venison.

Congratulations, you are now an honorary outlaw.

You scoundrels.

That trick never gets old.

I fear it's time for our sheriff to be on his way. We have important matters to discuss.

You have all been most gracious. Now if you'll excuse me --

Don't forget to rob him!

I'll be happy to take your payment.

Payment?

That-a-girl.

For the fine dinner and entertainment. Be a dear and hand over your purse.

I ... have no ...

Excuse me, but didn't we see you, just this morning, extorting large sums of money from the peasantry?

I really hate you.

A pitiful sum.

I suspected something like this would happen, so I travelled light.

He's a smart one.

It's not the amount that matters but the spirit by which it is given.

I assure you, I'm completely resenting this.

We'll see that it's put to the best possible use.

On that note, I'll take you back to the road.

Allow me to take him this time.

But you have such important matters to discuss.

Beatrice and I will come for safety.

I'll be fine!

I better keep an eye on those two.

I come to threaten you, and in turn I get dinner and entertainment?

I was the horrible one, robbing you, making you an outlaw.

If I'm one of you now, why do I still have to wear a blindfold?

There's more to the order of Robin Hood than poaching.

Such as?

Bravery, honor, principle.

You think I lack those qualities?

You oppress the poor.

I follow my king's commands, no matter how difficult. Does that not take bravery, honor, principle, good looks, jaw-dropping charisma?

Or just blind submission.

There is an order in heaven and earth, and defying it only leads to misery.

Have you not seen the misery in Nottingham?

You must look at the bigger picture.

And you must look at what's right in front of you.

I think I could learn to do that.

The road is just ahead. I trust you can take it from here.

Well, I guess I'll see you on Friday when your revolution takes place.

If not, you'll see me on Saturday, when your army comes to slaughter us.

What if there was a better way than all that?

I told you we'll never submit to Richard, not after what he did.

Perhaps, someday, there could be a different kind of kingdom, one that's big enough for both of us.

Who would rule it?

I don't know. I suppose every man and woman could be the king and queen of their own household.

Radical thoughts for a sheriff.

It seems you've brought out the worst in me.

I've only begun to corrupt you. Spend more time in the Sherwood, and before long you'll be donning Lincoln green tights.

What would people say?

They'd say, "Look! The sheriff found his soul."

I would shake your hand or something, but --

I would stab you.

So I'm going to leave now.

Yes you are.

Aspen.

Yes?

The north side of Nottingham Castle is heavily fortified. It would be foolish to charge it straight on.

Meaning the south side is vulnerable?

I just don't want you to suffer the same fate as that rat.

Why not? I'm a filthy bandit.

I mean before we've had a chance to finish this conversation. It's interesting.

We'll be sure to attack the south side.

I didn't say that.

Your secret is safe with me.

You didn't hear anything from me.

Nor did you hear this from me: good night.

Good night.

It's not a bad idea, you know.

What?

Our own country. I'll be thinking about that.

As will I.

There you are. What did I miss? And why are you smiling?

Hey! Whatever you've been up to, I do not approve.

Oh, Robin.

Well, hello.

Spying on people just isn't as much fun without you.

You're telling me?

They remind me of us, don't you think?

You've got to be joking.

One of us was good and proper, the other questionable in every way.

You shouldn't be so hard on yourself.

How will it end, I wonder? Can you see it from where you are?

Not in the slightest.

I suppose not knowing is what makes it all an adventure.

So true.

Hello? Mother? Beatrice? How can anyone sleep when life is so exciting?

What is this?

Divulging our plans to the sheriff. Did you think I wouldn't find out?

It's only sporting to let your opponent know when to expect you.

You never cease to amaze me.

Thanks to this blabbing imbecile, our entire mission has been compromised.

Hawk is not the enemy we thought he was.

She thinks he's cute.

He said charging the north side of the castle would be suicide.

He would say that, wouldn't he? We're no longer safe here, nor can we wait until Friday. We must move before the sheriff and his men have time to prepare. Joan, send word to the villages that we attack tomorrow.

Yes, my lady.

The rest of you, pack up. Now.

And what of Aspen?

By her own confession, she's guilty of treason, and you know what that means.

You'll have to kill me first.

And me.

And me.

I'd say me too, but ... you know.

Meg, Gisella, stay here and watch her. Though it's a waste of soldiers, I can't have her causing trouble.

Only two guards? Are you sure that's wise?

If you ever interfere with me again, I will not be so kind. Come, ladies.

I'm not leaving.

Do as she says. I'm not worth dying for.

If any one of you attempts to rescue her, I'll have no choice but to kill you. Move!

If you ladies get hungry, there are some fresh tarts in the kitchen.

Thank you, mother.

More than ever I wish your father was here. He would know what to do.

I would?

When war turns reason to madness, we desperately need free thinkers. I should have empowered you to follow your own path instead of standing in your way, because what you have is exactly what we need right now. I know you'll find a way out of this, and when you do, help us restore sanity to this country.

I swear it.

She said move!

I would stay with Aspen, but revolts are kind of my thing.

Make sure to attack the south entrance!

HELPLESS AND UNNEEDED,

BOUND BY HEAVY CHAINS,

DISCARDED AND DEFEATED,

UNWORTHY OF THE FAME

OF MY NAME.

 

THE HEROINE OF LEGEND

IS NOTHING BUT A DREAM.

EVERY DEED ATTEMPTED

PLAYS OUT IN A SIM'LAR THEME.

 

FATHER, YOU TOLD ME

BUT HOW WHEN I DON'T KNOW

WHICH SIDE IS RIGHT?

BRING ON THE MOBS,

AND BRING ON THE FUN.

RICHARD, MY FRIEND, YOU'VE NOWHERE TO RUN.

A NEW DAY'S BEGINNING TO DAWN.

IS THIS THE WAY TO MOVE ON?

THE TOWERS OF TYRANTS ARE CRUMBLING ...

BENEATH THE SHOUTS!

PEOPLE ARE GATH'RING TO FIGHT,

CALLING FOR THEIR LEADER.

FOR THEIR LEADER!

OVERPOWERED BY

VOICES OH SO LOUD.

TELL ME, WHO AM I

TO STAND AGAINST THE CROWD?

COME, WON'T YOU JOIN IN OUR

GLORIOUS REVOLUTION?

COME, WON'T YOU JOIN IN OUR

GLORIOUS REVOLUTION? ...

CAN THERE BE NO OTHER WAY?

JUSTICE DEMANDS THEM TO PAY.

WHETHER TO DEFEND,

WHETHER TO ATTACK?

IS THIS GIRL A FRIEND?

WILL SHE STAB ME IN THE BACK?

NO REASON TO DISMAY.

MY MEN ARE ON THEIR WAY.

WHETHER HERE OR THERE,

THE PEASANTS HAVEN'T GOT A PRAYER.

Down with Richard!

Down with Richard!

GATHER UP YOUR FARMING TOOLS

AND BEAT THEM INTO SWORDS.

STAND AGAINST YOUR ENEMIES,

THE ROYALTY AND LORDS.

 

TORMENT AND OPPRESSION

WE WILL TURN UPON THEIR HEADS.

THEY'LL GIVE US OUR DEMANDS

OR THEY'LL BE DEAD.

GATHER UP YOUR FARMING TOOLS

AND BEAT THEM INTO SWORDS.

STAND AGAINST YOUR ENEMIES,

THE ROYALTY AND LORDS.

 

TORMENT AND OPPRESSION

WE WILL TURN UPON THEIR HEADS.

THEY'LL GIVE US OUR DEMANDS

OR THEY'LL BE DEAD.

AH ...

GATHER UP YOUR FARMING TOOLS

AND BEAT THEM INTO SWORDS.

STAND AGAINST YOUR ENEMIES,

THE ROYALTY AND LORDS.

 

TORMENT AND OPPRESSION

WE WILL TURN UPON THEIR HEADS.

OR THEY'LL BE DEAD.

COULD THERE BE A KINGDOM

WHERE NO ONE NEEDS TO FEAR,

WHERE RIVALS COME TOGETHER,

AND THE WAY AHEAD IS CLEAR?

EVERYONE COULD HEAL,

BUT HOW TO MAKE IT REAL?

USING LOGIC, I

KNOW WHAT I MUST DO,

BUT SOMETHING IN ME

STILL WANTS TO TRUST YOU.

AS MUCH AS I LOVE

THE THRILL OF MURDER,

I'D RATHER SLIP OUT

AS A DESERTER.

MY FATE IS CALLING.

MY BLOOD IS RUSHING.

I CANNOT STAND BY

AND JUST DO NOTHING.

WHETHER JOINED OR ON MY OWN,

AND DESPITE WHO'S ON THE THRONE,

I MUST FIGHT.

 

HELPLESS AND UNNEEDED,

BOUND BY HEAVY CHAINS,

DISCARDED AND DEFEATED,

IT'S TIME TO USE MY BRAIN!

What? ... No, they're asleep.

What did you say?

Nothing.

I heard you whisper something.

I was just talking to myself. It's a coping mechanism for the severely bored. You should try it.

I'll give the signal.

You did it again.

Did what?

You said something about a signal.

Signal?

I was just reciting lyrics to an old song. I'LL GIVE THE SIGNAL, YOU BRING THE SAUSAGES. ... You've never heard it?

She's lying.

What are you looking for? There's no one out there.

What was that?

I'm guessing a bird.

Or an ambush.

Ambush? Everyone went to Nottingham. There couldn't possibly be a rescue mission.

Couldn't there be?

Well, as a Hood, I do have friends in high places ... and our family is known for swashbuckling stealth, usually ending with an arrow through someone's heart. But I'm sure there's nothing to worry about.

Is there an ambush or not?

There is not.

I tell you, she's lying.

But supposing there was, perhaps you should put that thing away. After all, it's your hearts on the line.

You heard her warn Scarlet about leaving her with only two guards. It was our death sentence.

Settle down.

Tell them to come out.

Tell who?

Enough of your games!

All right ... come out, whoever you are.

They're not going to show themselves before they attack. They're waiting for her signal.

Give them the signal.

What signal?

Give them the blasted signal!

If you say so ...

No, no, never mind.

We surrender!

No we don't.

Yes we do!

You can't surrender without my permission.

Supposing there really was someone out there, wouldn't it be my permission that matters?

What do you want from us?

Unchain me and chain yourselves in my place, and I promise no one will get hurt.

It's Scarlet's fault, not ours.

True.

You have behaved honorably, my friends. Goodbye.

Tell us the truth. Who's in the bushes?

As I said, it was probably just a bird.

You have your men. Now what?

With your permission, sire, I want to keep them near the castle.

All five-hundred?

She said the attack would be on Friday, but that could have been a lie.

Only a fool would trust a bandit.

I still think this army is a ridiculous waste of money.

I share your concern, sire, which is why I have purposely seen to the commanding of these men. As soon as we know you're safe, I'll send them on their way.

Dear me. Sounds like someone's at the door.

These walls are impenetrable, our archers well-equipped. The only way this castle could fall is by treachery from the inside.

Oh my, it appears we have an invasion.

What?

Already?

You told me you would stamp them out.

It was a lie.

For Nottingham!

For Nottingham!

I surrender.

Finally, some action! If only I could actually hit someone.

Scarlet, can we not discuss your grievances?

If you don't wish to die, stand down.

My loyalty is to the crown, not to my life.

You see why everyone's talking about him?

We only have one demand. Richard must surrender his crown.

Never!

You were saying?

Let me finish him off. He deserves to die.

We'll need him for questioning. Lock him in the tower.

You said your loyalty is to the crown.

Long live the queen.

I'm certain I speak on behalf of all the lords when I say well done my lady. We are beyond eager for your new order.

The age of tyranny has ended! From henceforth, first Nottingham, then all the land shall be ruled by the people. Beneath my guidance, there will be no more rich and poor, only fellow citizens of ...

The Kingdom of Scarlet. Already the floor and walls have been decorated in your honor. Human blood makes such a lovely dye.

This is no joke.

My thoughts exactly.

You've freed yourselves from one tyrant. Why choose another?

Seize her.

The revolution will be sealed with the blood of this traitor.

No!

Show the people your strength, my lady. We'll hold her while you strike.

Very well.

Scarlet, please!

Drop it.

What?

You heard her.

The crown.

Thank you, sister of Sherwood, for helping us depose Richard. I'll see to our final goal: that no one follows in his stead.

Should anyone else care to be free, you're welcome to join us in the Sherwood.

Doing alright, mother?

Someone has to care for the wounded. I love you.

I love you too.

Make sure to feed the dogs! We may be here a while.

A hundred pounds for whoever catches the traitor, Aspen Hood.

Allow me.

No. You and I have a country to run.

That makes three of us.

Scarlet did it. She overthrew Richard. She's creating a new England.

It was too easy. How did we get past all those men? It's as if they let us in.

Richard has many enemies who would be delighted to use Scarlet as a puppet. Her reign will not last, and when it ends, I fear for her.

She was ready to kill you!

She's still our sister.

Things are about to get worse, aren't they?

For all of us.

What can we do when we don't even know who our real enemies are?

Be heroes, regardless. When England falls, Sherwood must rise.

You're going to take power?

That's what I think about power.

I think she needs some time alone.

RUNAWAYS,

RENEGADES,

HUNTED DOWN LIKE DOGS

TILL WE'RE DONE AWAY.

 

WHAT ONCE WAS WRONG

NOW IS RIGHT.

SHOULD I JOIN THE CROWD?

SHOULD I STAND AND FIGHT?

 

HAVE I BEEN DREAMING?

AM I THE ONE WHO'S AWAKE?

DON'T SAY THAT EVERYTHING I'VE DONE

HAS BEEN A BIG MISTAKE.

 

WHAT IS THIS FEELING,

WITH HEART BEGINNING TO RACE,

THE DREAD OF TAKING ON

THE DEMONS I AM BOUND TO FACE?

 

WHY SHOULD I STRUGGLE

WHEN THERE IS NOWHERE TO RUN?

WHY SHOULD I LABOR

FOR A BATTLE THAT CANNOT BE WON?

I FEEL I MUST RISE.

IF ONLY SOMEONE ELSE WOULD.

BUT HOW TO TAKE UPON

THE MANTLE OF THE ROBIN HOOD?

She lied to me!

 

RUNAWAYS,

RENEGADES.

SHOULD I HUNT THEM DOWN?

SHOULD I SEEK THEIR AID?

 

WHAT ONCE WAS WRONG

NOW IS RIGHT.

SHOULD I JOIN THE CROWD?

SHOULD I STAND AND FIGHT?

 

HAVE I BEEN DREAMING?

AM I THE ONE WHO'S AWAKE?

DON'T SAY THAT EVERYTHING I'VE DONE

HAS BEEN A BIG MISTAKE.

 

WHAT IS THIS FEELING,

WITH HEART BEGINNING TO RACE,

THE DREAD OF TAKING ON

THE DEMONS I AM BOUND TO FACE?

 

WHY SHOULD I STRUGGLE

WHEN THERE IS NOWHERE TO RUN?

WHY SHOULD I LABOR

FOR A BATTLE THAT CANNOT BE WON?

 

I FEEL I MUST RISE.

IF ONLY SOMEONE ELSE WOULD.

BUT WHAT TO DO ABOUT

THE MANTLE OF THE ROBIN HOOD?

I LOOK AROUND, AND I SEE

NO ONE ELSE WILL TAKE A STAND.

CAN I TURN MY BACK

WHEN FEAR IS GRIPPING ALL THE LAND?

STANDING ON MY OWN.

YOU DO NOT FIGHT ALONE.

BUT HOW CAN SO FEW WITHSTAND?

I SERVED KING RICHARD,

THOUGH NOW I HAVE A QUEEN.

MY HEART'S WITH NEITHER,

BUT I'M TRAPPED IN THEIR MACHINE.

WOULD I COULD WITHDRAW.

YOU MUST SERVE THE LAW

AND STOP THESE RECKLESS SHERWOOD FIENDS!

AND WHO WILL HELP US

WHEN THE NATION IS TORN?

WHERE HAVE OUR LEADERS GONE,

AND WHO WILL STAND AGAINST THE STORM?

 

I KNOW I MUST CHOOSE

BETWEEN UNSPEAKABLE PATHS,

THE PEOPLE'S FAITH

OR LET MY DARKEST FEARS

CONSUME AT LAST.

 

I FEEL I MUST RISE.

IF ONLY SOMEONE ELSE WOULD.

I MUST FIGHT AGAINST

THE MANTLE OF THE ROBIN HOOD.

I CAN STILL SEE,

BY THE LIGHT OF THE MOON,

WE WILL STAND ON,

AND WE WILL DRESS OUR BATTLE WOUNDS.

 

I CAN STILL SEE,

BY THE LIGHT OF THE MOON,

WE WILL STAND ON,

AND WE WILL DRESS OUR BATTLE WOUNDS!