Robin of Loxley is dead. The Merry Men have scattered - Marion having been pardoned by the King, has returned to Leaford. At Huntingdon castle, the Earl and his son Robert prepare to entertain in order to arrange a political alliance for the King. Among their guests are the Sheriff of Nottingham, his brother Hugo, Guy of Gisburne, the Welsh Marcher Lord - Owen of Clun, his followers, Sir Richard of Leaford and his daughter Marion. Young Robert is captivated by the sadness and serenity of Marion. Lord Owen becomes infatuated with her - he insults and then abducts her.