Robin Burrows : 9 - The Grand Tournament

"The Grand Tournament of Heights Excellence is about to begin!" The heron master of ceremonies launches festivities. Backstage, Will adjusted Robin's beak. "Remember: straight, no ground scratching, and 'absolutely exquisite' every three sentences. You're Motacilla alba if asked. But avoid talking - your accent is... 'rooky'." Prince John's criers flooded the forest with lies: Robin and his band are accused of causing new taxes. The pressure is unbearable; he can't let his people sink. The tournament is no longer a challenge but a necessity, to clear his name. Prince John presides from his golden perch, satisfied smile on his beak. Marianne, in the gallery, hides her excitement behind her fan, between apprehension and hope. No one suspects the mysterious "Count of Hautmont" is this badger, come to prove talent isn't the prerogative of wings, and truth will pierce the veil of lies.