Robin Hood 110: "Peace? Off!"

In which Robin and his men help out a returning Crusader, and find themlseves embroiled in some international diplomacy and spy-craft.

There's a lot going on here, and at the same time nothing much to move the overall seasonal plot forward: PTSD. Superstitions (fears of Saracen "witchcraft"). Discussions of magic vs science. Kidnapping. Assassination attempts. International diplomacy...

Spoilers below!

This episode touches again upon the idea of soldiers returning from the Crusades as suffering from PTSD. Previously it was Robin's nightmares, now it's a man who is basically sleepwalking through England, while occasionally burning down churches or attacking people (like Djaq!) as a result of being tortured by the Saracens... Much bonds with him over both having witnessed (committed?) similar atrocities during their time in the Holy Land.

"Robin: He's beyond sides now, war has turned his mind
Much: Crusader's sickness."

"Harold: You must get the dreams.
Much: Of course. It's our punishment."

While Robin and his men are helping out (or trying not to get killed by) Harold, they find out about a Saracen staying in Nottingham. A nephew of Saladin who took it upon himself to negotiate for peace. He thinks he's there waiting to meet Prince John and negotiate Peace in the Holy Land, but in reality he's being held hostage for ransom by the Sheriff and Gisbourne. Unfortunately for him them people who come looking for him would prefer him dead than rescued. So of course Robin intervenes, Harold finds some measure of healing and helps him out, and he and Prince Malik  return to the Holy Land to work towards peace.

Former Crusader vs Saladin's assasins

Straight from Sherwood (or not!)

• If we really stretch... I guess a similarity between some stories where Robin helps an injured nobleman he comes across, could step in for his helping Harold?