His stealing went unnoticed by Penelope, despite being careful. She shot a glare his way as he spoke. For now, she did not speak up and just sat in quiet contempt for the thief. Things seemed to be in order, which was enough for her not to realize a dagger has gone missing.

Once he was laying back down, Penelope seemed more at ease. The less movement, the better. But this little hint of peace was quickly destroyed. 

An arrow lodged itself in the wood only a few inches away from hitting Penelope. It's intended target had originally been William, who rode at the side of the wagon. However, it's archer had shot much too early and easily missed William and almost hit Penelope.

"We're being ambushed!" William shouted as he tried to calm his frightened mare as it reared up in panic.

Penelope ducked down to avoid any further incoming arrows and heaved herself off of the wagon which had now been pulled to a violent and sudden stop as two of the bandits now blocked their path. A few others began to emerged from the surrounding areas. It was clear that they had been labeled as a huge target. Coming from the king, surely many bandits wanted whatever they could get from the wagon and they knew they needed numbers to do so.