A nasty last scene. Hopefully one or both mature to understand that brotherhood can be a gift.
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Chapter 5.13.1 May 970 Appleby
Chapter 5.13
8 May 970 Appleby
Prince Totil walked into the private audience chamber. To Totil the room had an ominous feeling. Shadows seemed to dwell in the corner. Totil could not help thinking how many plots were hatched, how many executions orders were given, and how many were sentenced to excruciating torture by Count Ragnarr the Evil. Now once again plotting and dark plans were to discussed here.
Totil saw Count Ceolwulf leaning against the wall in the corner. The Spymaster of Jorvik looked the part. He was dressed in black with a black cloak. The torchlight seemed to reflect off his white hair and beard. His good right hand rested near the hilt of his sword. His left hand, now a wood replica to replace the hand lost in a battle many years ago rested at his side.
Count Oswulf of Perfeddwlad, the Marshal of Jorvik, sat in a chair near the table in the room. He wore a metal helmet with a mask shaped on it. The mask had only eye opening to hide the eye lost to a wild boar. The mask also hide the many scars on his face from that encounter. His wooden arm with a hook rested in his lap. His arm had also been a victim to the wild boar.
Totil walked to the other side of the table. Oswulf looked up at him and asked, “How goes the siege of Lowther?”
Totil looked puzzle, “It goes well. The city should fall by the end of next month. Why does it concern you?”
Oswulf replied, “Remember I am the Marshal of the kingdom. It is my duty to observe any military matters and report them back to the king. Why else would I be here.”
The room was silent. Then Oswulf burst out laughing and was soon joined by Ceolwulf and Totil. The laughter stopped when the door opened and an elderly man wrapped in an outlandish yellow cloak proudly entered the room. His face and hands were heavily scarred. His long gray hair brushed his shoulders and his beard touched his chest. His moustache was braided and as long as his beard. One eye was covered with a patch while the other eye scanned the room like a wolf assessing its prey. As he crossed the room to stand before the table everyone noticed he had a very pronounced limp.
Totil said in surprised voice, “Jarl Ælfweard!”
Ælfweard smiled, “Didn’t think the old bastard would make an appearance, Ahy.”
Oswulf then asked, “Are you hurt?”
Ælfweard looking at Oswulf replied in a mocking tone, “Of course I am why else would I be limping?” Ælfweard looked at Totil and Ceolwulf and asked, “Is he always this daff?”
Before Oswulf could react Ceolwulf asked, “So what misadventure brought about your current state of affairs?”
Ælfweard smiled, “See there was this lass who entertained me for a few days. Well her husband didn’t take kindly to it and challenged me to duel. The little bugger was better than I thought and damned near hamstrung me. Originally I was going to give him a couple of scars to remember me by but after that I just ran the bastard through.”
Ælfweard then turned to Totil, “What is it with all the damn heads on stakes everywhere is this wretched county. I also hear there are quite a few one handed one eyed former soldiers in Westmoreland these days?”
Totil said, “These people only understand butchery and savagery. It is the legacy of their previous counts. Otherwise they fight at every chance they get. We have had many patrols go missing or come back in pieces.”
Ælfweard said, “I see it's the old eye for an eye thing.That is one way to earn the title “the Mutilator.’”
Ceolwulf said, “Since we are all here we should begin.”
Everyone nodded.
Ceolwulf continued, “Several months ago King Sigfrið received a Papal decree encouraging him to address the heretical situation in the Duchy of Deheubarth. If Sigfrið does so his reward is the Counties of Dyfed and Gwent, and most likely the Duchy of Deheubarth.”
Oswulf said, “So another war looms.Sigfrið gains territory and glory. We lose gold and levies. ”
Totil said, “I would say that you are correct.”
Oswulf said, “Another war will make many of the vassals unhappy and that will help our cause.”
Ceolwulf responded, “Yes and no. There are only a few direct vassals to choose from. Maria in Hereford is a child and it will be many years before she will be without a regent. Cyneswith of Bedford will be 16 shortly. Even though she has expressed her dislike of Sigfrið due to her grandfather’s dealings and the fact that Sigfrið most likely ordered her mother's death, it may not be soon enough.”
Totil said, “Ceolwulf of Northampton is out. He is Sigfrið’s man through and through.”
Oswulf asked, “Who does that leave?”
Ceolwulf answered, “Froði of Mann, Siweard of Lincoln, and Kettil of Gloucester.”
Totil said, “I think we can forget about Kettil. He has found a love for my brother’s gold recently. It allows him to pursue his passion.”
Oswulf looked confused, “His passion?”
Totil responded, “Women.” At that Ælfweard raised an eyebrow. It took a moment and then Oswulf made the connection. Kettil’s affairs were well known as was his wife’s anger over them.
Ceolwulf said, “Siweard is a good candidate. Lately his opinion of the king has gone down. It is said that Siweard has his eyes on Norfolk and the Jarldom of East Anglia. Neither of which Sigfrið will relinquish any time soon.”
“Froði of Mann has expressed his interest in joining our cause.”
Ælfweard then spoke, “The trouble laddies is with numbers. Sigfrið controls close to have of the available levies in the kingdom. Adding Froði is a very small drop in the bucket of what we need. Besides his loyalty to the cause is from fear not a desire to bring the king in check.”
Totil said, “Fear?”
Ælfweard said, “Yes fear.” He pointd at Totil, “Fear of you.”
Totil responded confusingly, “Me?”
Ælfweard answered, “You hold a strong claim on Mann. Hell, your brother should have given it to you. Froði lives in fear of you pressing the claim and going to war over it. He knows he does not stand a chance. He figures if he allies himself with us you will spare him.”
Ælfweard then turned to Ceolwulf, “Keeping Siweard from East Anglia is in our best interest and your better interest. If he becomes lord of East Anglia your vassalage reverts to him. So Spymaster I say you want to make sure the king does not give it to him for several reasons.”
Ceolwulf responding with a dirty look.
Ælfweard turned back to Totil and said, “You Jarl of Lancaster need to end this war. The sooner the better. Without your full levies we have no chance in hell of having anything other than a women’s weaving group.”
Ælfweard then walked over to side table and grabbed a bottle of wine. He walked over to Oswulf and sat it down in front of him and said, “Any you my good Marshal need to stop looking for the answer at the bottom of this.”
Ælfweard then knocked the bottle over. Its contents poured onto the floor. Oswulf shook with anger. He stood up and pushed the chair away. He stared at Ælfweard. His hand started to slide down to the hilt of his sword.
Ælfweard smiled an evil smile, “Are you sure you want to go there, laddie?”
“Enough” roared Totil. “There will be no bloodshed in my castle.”
Oswulf appeared to relax.
Ælfweard snickered, “You wonder why Sigfrið is able to avoid a reckoning. Look at yourselves. If you are going to do this you must have full dedication to the cause. You must have all of your wits and senses. Sigfrið plays you against one another and you ask him for the next une to dance to.”
Oswulf seeing a chance to embarrass Ælfweard said, “What of your rebellions?”
Ælfweard smiled. He had expected this, “My problem back then was I relied on others. My brother Eanhere was using me to gain a county using my name. As far as Eadric I never asked him to make me King of England. Hell, I was in King Robert’s dungeons. Against Duchess Cuthburg of Lothian I was a rash fool and began something without planning or being fully ready. I will not make that mistake again.”
As he finished Ælfweard looked at everyone in the room. He looked deep into each of their eyes. All three felt a chill run up their spines as he did so. They all got the feeling that if they crossed Ælfweard something very unpleasant was going to happen to them.
Ælfweard then threw his cloak on and pulled up the hood. He took his leave and departed the room. Ceolwulf and Oswulf could not leave fast enough. They acted like they were running from unseen beast that was stalking them.
Totil stood alone in the chamber. He would swear afterwards that he heard maniacal evil laughter come from the dark corners of the room. It took all his courage not to run from the room. He did quickly leave the chambers. For the rest of his days he would never enter that chamber alone at night.
8 May 970 Appleby
Prince Totil walked into the private audience chamber. To Totil the room had an ominous feeling. Shadows seemed to dwell in the corner. Totil could not help thinking how many plots were hatched, how many executions orders were given, and how many were sentenced to excruciating torture by Count Ragnarr the Evil. Now once again plotting and dark plans were to discussed here.
Totil saw Count Ceolwulf leaning against the wall in the corner. The Spymaster of Jorvik looked the part. He was dressed in black with a black cloak. The torchlight seemed to reflect off his white hair and beard. His good right hand rested near the hilt of his sword. His left hand, now a wood replica to replace the hand lost in a battle many years ago rested at his side.
Count Oswulf of Perfeddwlad, the Marshal of Jorvik, sat in a chair near the table in the room. He wore a metal helmet with a mask shaped on it. The mask had only eye opening to hide the eye lost to a wild boar. The mask also hide the many scars on his face from that encounter. His wooden arm with a hook rested in his lap. His arm had also been a victim to the wild boar.
Totil walked to the other side of the table. Oswulf looked up at him and asked, “How goes the siege of Lowther?”
Totil looked puzzle, “It goes well. The city should fall by the end of next month. Why does it concern you?”
Oswulf replied, “Remember I am the Marshal of the kingdom. It is my duty to observe any military matters and report them back to the king. Why else would I be here.”
The room was silent. Then Oswulf burst out laughing and was soon joined by Ceolwulf and Totil. The laughter stopped when the door opened and an elderly man wrapped in an outlandish yellow cloak proudly entered the room. His face and hands were heavily scarred. His long gray hair brushed his shoulders and his beard touched his chest. His moustache was braided and as long as his beard. One eye was covered with a patch while the other eye scanned the room like a wolf assessing its prey. As he crossed the room to stand before the table everyone noticed he had a very pronounced limp.
Totil said in surprised voice, “Jarl Ælfweard!”
Ælfweard smiled, “Didn’t think the old bastard would make an appearance, Ahy.”
Oswulf then asked, “Are you hurt?”
Ælfweard looking at Oswulf replied in a mocking tone, “Of course I am why else would I be limping?” Ælfweard looked at Totil and Ceolwulf and asked, “Is he always this daff?”
Before Oswulf could react Ceolwulf asked, “So what misadventure brought about your current state of affairs?”
Ælfweard smiled, “See there was this lass who entertained me for a few days. Well her husband didn’t take kindly to it and challenged me to duel. The little bugger was better than I thought and damned near hamstrung me. Originally I was going to give him a couple of scars to remember me by but after that I just ran the bastard through.”
Ælfweard then turned to Totil, “What is it with all the damn heads on stakes everywhere is this wretched county. I also hear there are quite a few one handed one eyed former soldiers in Westmoreland these days?”
Totil said, “These people only understand butchery and savagery. It is the legacy of their previous counts. Otherwise they fight at every chance they get. We have had many patrols go missing or come back in pieces.”
Ælfweard said, “I see it's the old eye for an eye thing.That is one way to earn the title “the Mutilator.’”
Ceolwulf said, “Since we are all here we should begin.”
Everyone nodded.
Ceolwulf continued, “Several months ago King Sigfrið received a Papal decree encouraging him to address the heretical situation in the Duchy of Deheubarth. If Sigfrið does so his reward is the Counties of Dyfed and Gwent, and most likely the Duchy of Deheubarth.”
Oswulf said, “So another war looms.Sigfrið gains territory and glory. We lose gold and levies. ”
Totil said, “I would say that you are correct.”
Oswulf said, “Another war will make many of the vassals unhappy and that will help our cause.”
Ceolwulf responded, “Yes and no. There are only a few direct vassals to choose from. Maria in Hereford is a child and it will be many years before she will be without a regent. Cyneswith of Bedford will be 16 shortly. Even though she has expressed her dislike of Sigfrið due to her grandfather’s dealings and the fact that Sigfrið most likely ordered her mother's death, it may not be soon enough.”
Totil said, “Ceolwulf of Northampton is out. He is Sigfrið’s man through and through.”
Oswulf asked, “Who does that leave?”
Ceolwulf answered, “Froði of Mann, Siweard of Lincoln, and Kettil of Gloucester.”
Totil said, “I think we can forget about Kettil. He has found a love for my brother’s gold recently. It allows him to pursue his passion.”
Oswulf looked confused, “His passion?”
Totil responded, “Women.” At that Ælfweard raised an eyebrow. It took a moment and then Oswulf made the connection. Kettil’s affairs were well known as was his wife’s anger over them.
Ceolwulf said, “Siweard is a good candidate. Lately his opinion of the king has gone down. It is said that Siweard has his eyes on Norfolk and the Jarldom of East Anglia. Neither of which Sigfrið will relinquish any time soon.”
“Froði of Mann has expressed his interest in joining our cause.”
Ælfweard then spoke, “The trouble laddies is with numbers. Sigfrið controls close to have of the available levies in the kingdom. Adding Froði is a very small drop in the bucket of what we need. Besides his loyalty to the cause is from fear not a desire to bring the king in check.”
Totil said, “Fear?”
Ælfweard said, “Yes fear.” He pointd at Totil, “Fear of you.”
Totil responded confusingly, “Me?”
Ælfweard answered, “You hold a strong claim on Mann. Hell, your brother should have given it to you. Froði lives in fear of you pressing the claim and going to war over it. He knows he does not stand a chance. He figures if he allies himself with us you will spare him.”
Ælfweard then turned to Ceolwulf, “Keeping Siweard from East Anglia is in our best interest and your better interest. If he becomes lord of East Anglia your vassalage reverts to him. So Spymaster I say you want to make sure the king does not give it to him for several reasons.”
Ceolwulf responding with a dirty look.
Ælfweard turned back to Totil and said, “You Jarl of Lancaster need to end this war. The sooner the better. Without your full levies we have no chance in hell of having anything other than a women’s weaving group.”
Ælfweard then walked over to side table and grabbed a bottle of wine. He walked over to Oswulf and sat it down in front of him and said, “Any you my good Marshal need to stop looking for the answer at the bottom of this.”
Ælfweard then knocked the bottle over. Its contents poured onto the floor. Oswulf shook with anger. He stood up and pushed the chair away. He stared at Ælfweard. His hand started to slide down to the hilt of his sword.
Ælfweard smiled an evil smile, “Are you sure you want to go there, laddie?”
“Enough” roared Totil. “There will be no bloodshed in my castle.”
Oswulf appeared to relax.
Ælfweard snickered, “You wonder why Sigfrið is able to avoid a reckoning. Look at yourselves. If you are going to do this you must have full dedication to the cause. You must have all of your wits and senses. Sigfrið plays you against one another and you ask him for the next une to dance to.”
Oswulf seeing a chance to embarrass Ælfweard said, “What of your rebellions?”
Ælfweard smiled. He had expected this, “My problem back then was I relied on others. My brother Eanhere was using me to gain a county using my name. As far as Eadric I never asked him to make me King of England. Hell, I was in King Robert’s dungeons. Against Duchess Cuthburg of Lothian I was a rash fool and began something without planning or being fully ready. I will not make that mistake again.”
As he finished Ælfweard looked at everyone in the room. He looked deep into each of their eyes. All three felt a chill run up their spines as he did so. They all got the feeling that if they crossed Ælfweard something very unpleasant was going to happen to them.
Ælfweard then threw his cloak on and pulled up the hood. He took his leave and departed the room. Ceolwulf and Oswulf could not leave fast enough. They acted like they were running from unseen beast that was stalking them.
Totil stood alone in the chamber. He would swear afterwards that he heard maniacal evil laughter come from the dark corners of the room. It took all his courage not to run from the room. He did quickly leave the chambers. For the rest of his days he would never enter that chamber alone at night.
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Plots afoot and aplenty. Sigrið may find his throne is not entirely as secure as he thinks, but then he would also have reasons for his confidence.
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Totil seems to be craven and somewhat incompetent. But he has royal blood, so he'll remain a threat, even if it is as nothing more than a relatively weak-figurehead or pawn in someone else's schemes.
While I've been harsh to Sigfrið I've finally noticed his one good quality - he seems a devoted husband and father. Knut was to a degree, but he always seemed harsher and more distant to all but his eldest two daughters. So Sigfrið has that going for him at least.
While I've been harsh to Sigfrið I've finally noticed his one good quality - he seems a devoted husband and father. Knut was to a degree, but he always seemed harsher and more distant to all but his eldest two daughters. So Sigfrið has that going for him at least.
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Chapter 5.13.2 September 971 Chester
12 September 971 Chester
Prince Totil sat at the table going through papers. He was doing so half heartedly. Whenever there was a noise in the hall he would look up. He was in an upbeat, anxious mood. He was waiting for a messenger. A messenger that would change the kingdom. The civil war with Count Vagn of Westmoreland ended with Vagn’s surrender in July and Totil’s levies were replenished. And now with Froði of Mann and Siweard of Lincoln committing to their cause they had the strength to challenge his brother King Sigfrið. He would have to give more power to the Council now.
Duchess Eadburg approached her husband. He looked up at her with a cheerful expression. She said, “I have not seen you this happy. Even when Vagn surrendered you were not like this.”
Totil replied, “ A message should arrive soon from you father saying that a letter has been delivered to Sigfrið demanding he grant more power to the Council. We can stop this war over Deheubarth in its tracks.”
Eadburg asked, “What if Sigfrið resists?”
Totil answered confidently, “We have the forces to make him. I hope it does not come to civil war but if it does it is on his head.”
Eadburg asked, “If Oswulf is with you who will lead his armies?”
Totil said, “It does not matter. We will crush them.”
Eadburg asked, “What of the one they call Kettilmund?”
Totil asked, “Who?”
Eadburg said “Kettilmund. No one is sure where he is from. Some say he is from Nordland, others from Noregr. They say he reminds people of Ragnarr Loðbrok. He fought in Breizh with distinction. Sigfrið promoted him to General about 3 years ago.”
Totil said, “Where have you heard this?”
Eadburg replied, “from Eanswith, Oswulf’s wife.”
Totil said, “You listen to the gossip of women.”
Eadburg said, “According to Eanswith Oswulf is afraid of him. Sigfrið gives him more responsibility everyday.”
Totil replied, “Figures the drunk would be.” He then looked at Eadburg, “Why do you talk like this?”
Eadburg replied, “I have told you before I do not want you to have the same fate as Oswine, stripped of your titles and dying in a dark dungeon.”
Totil chuckled, “That won’t happen. Besides were you not the one who encouraged me to join your father?”
Eadburg said, “Yes, I was. I just want you to make sure you can triumph.”
“A messenger, milord,” cried a guard.
Eadburg stepped behind the table with her husband. She placed a hand on his shoulder as the messenger approached. Totil looked at the messenger and felt something was out of place. He was too well dressed and his gear was expensive looking.
The messenger stopped before the table and bowed. He offered a scroll to Totil. Totil took the scroll.
Totil asked, “Are you from Ipswich?”
The messenger looked confused, “No milord, Jorvik.”
Jorvik thought Totil. Has my brother already replied? Is he seeking help or is he surrendering?
The messenger snapped Totil out of his thoughts, “No reply is requested.”
Totil motioned that the messenger could leave. The messenger took his leave and left.
Both Totil and Eadburg looked at the scroll with apprehension. Totil felt the kingdom and the world was about to change. He broke the seal and read the message. His eyes opened wide. He stood up and read it again. When he was finished the message slipped from his hands. It floated to the table.
Eadburg began to say something.
Totil slammed both fists into the table and shouted, “Damn him, Damn him to the eternal fires of Hell.”
Eadburg said as she reached for the scroll, “Damn who?’ She read the scroll and understood.
Totil fell back down into the chair.
Totil said, “With the few strokes of a quill he has gutted our faction.”
Even though she read the scroll Eadburg still did not understand fully, “How?”
Totil answered, “My sneaky bastard of a brother appointed Waltheof Kiil Count of Norfolk and Jarl of East Anglia. Count Ceolwulf of Suffolk, your father and our faction leader is no longer a direct vassal of Sigfrið. He now answers to Jarl Waltheof. And he is no longer Spymaster. Sigfrið has given that position to Count Froði of Mann. With that appointment we can no longer count on Froði.”
Eadburg said, “What about the others?”
Totil said, “As you read, my brother is undertaking the construction of a new hospital and other improvements in Prefeddwlad and Lincoln. So basically he has bought Oswulf and Siweard’s loyalty. Only Ælfweard and I remain.”
Eadburg asked, “Now what?”
Totil said in a defeated tone, “War with Deheubarth. Sigfrið will gain glory and land with the blood of our levies and our gold.Duke Charles of Deheubarth is weak. This will not be much of a war but a slaughter.”
Eadburg asked, “Is there anything you can do?”
Totil replied, “Nothing to my brother for now. Ælfweard and I must rebuild our cause from the ruins. If the war lingers may be the lords will quickly tire of it and we can bring them into the fold.”
Totil’s tone changed and his face grew stern. “Of Count Froði I promise I will have my vengeance. I will seize Mann from him.”
Prince Totil sat at the table going through papers. He was doing so half heartedly. Whenever there was a noise in the hall he would look up. He was in an upbeat, anxious mood. He was waiting for a messenger. A messenger that would change the kingdom. The civil war with Count Vagn of Westmoreland ended with Vagn’s surrender in July and Totil’s levies were replenished. And now with Froði of Mann and Siweard of Lincoln committing to their cause they had the strength to challenge his brother King Sigfrið. He would have to give more power to the Council now.
Duchess Eadburg approached her husband. He looked up at her with a cheerful expression. She said, “I have not seen you this happy. Even when Vagn surrendered you were not like this.”
Totil replied, “ A message should arrive soon from you father saying that a letter has been delivered to Sigfrið demanding he grant more power to the Council. We can stop this war over Deheubarth in its tracks.”
Eadburg asked, “What if Sigfrið resists?”
Totil answered confidently, “We have the forces to make him. I hope it does not come to civil war but if it does it is on his head.”
Eadburg asked, “If Oswulf is with you who will lead his armies?”
Totil said, “It does not matter. We will crush them.”
Eadburg asked, “What of the one they call Kettilmund?”
Totil asked, “Who?”
Eadburg said “Kettilmund. No one is sure where he is from. Some say he is from Nordland, others from Noregr. They say he reminds people of Ragnarr Loðbrok. He fought in Breizh with distinction. Sigfrið promoted him to General about 3 years ago.”
Totil said, “Where have you heard this?”
Eadburg replied, “from Eanswith, Oswulf’s wife.”
Totil said, “You listen to the gossip of women.”
Eadburg said, “According to Eanswith Oswulf is afraid of him. Sigfrið gives him more responsibility everyday.”
Totil replied, “Figures the drunk would be.” He then looked at Eadburg, “Why do you talk like this?”
Eadburg replied, “I have told you before I do not want you to have the same fate as Oswine, stripped of your titles and dying in a dark dungeon.”
Totil chuckled, “That won’t happen. Besides were you not the one who encouraged me to join your father?”
Eadburg said, “Yes, I was. I just want you to make sure you can triumph.”
“A messenger, milord,” cried a guard.
Eadburg stepped behind the table with her husband. She placed a hand on his shoulder as the messenger approached. Totil looked at the messenger and felt something was out of place. He was too well dressed and his gear was expensive looking.
The messenger stopped before the table and bowed. He offered a scroll to Totil. Totil took the scroll.
Totil asked, “Are you from Ipswich?”
The messenger looked confused, “No milord, Jorvik.”
Jorvik thought Totil. Has my brother already replied? Is he seeking help or is he surrendering?
The messenger snapped Totil out of his thoughts, “No reply is requested.”
Totil motioned that the messenger could leave. The messenger took his leave and left.
Both Totil and Eadburg looked at the scroll with apprehension. Totil felt the kingdom and the world was about to change. He broke the seal and read the message. His eyes opened wide. He stood up and read it again. When he was finished the message slipped from his hands. It floated to the table.
Eadburg began to say something.
Totil slammed both fists into the table and shouted, “Damn him, Damn him to the eternal fires of Hell.”
Eadburg said as she reached for the scroll, “Damn who?’ She read the scroll and understood.
Totil fell back down into the chair.
Totil said, “With the few strokes of a quill he has gutted our faction.”
Even though she read the scroll Eadburg still did not understand fully, “How?”
Totil answered, “My sneaky bastard of a brother appointed Waltheof Kiil Count of Norfolk and Jarl of East Anglia. Count Ceolwulf of Suffolk, your father and our faction leader is no longer a direct vassal of Sigfrið. He now answers to Jarl Waltheof. And he is no longer Spymaster. Sigfrið has given that position to Count Froði of Mann. With that appointment we can no longer count on Froði.”
Eadburg said, “What about the others?”
Totil said, “As you read, my brother is undertaking the construction of a new hospital and other improvements in Prefeddwlad and Lincoln. So basically he has bought Oswulf and Siweard’s loyalty. Only Ælfweard and I remain.”
Eadburg asked, “Now what?”
Totil said in a defeated tone, “War with Deheubarth. Sigfrið will gain glory and land with the blood of our levies and our gold.Duke Charles of Deheubarth is weak. This will not be much of a war but a slaughter.”
Eadburg asked, “Is there anything you can do?”
Totil replied, “Nothing to my brother for now. Ælfweard and I must rebuild our cause from the ruins. If the war lingers may be the lords will quickly tire of it and we can bring them into the fold.”
Totil’s tone changed and his face grew stern. “Of Count Froði I promise I will have my vengeance. I will seize Mann from him.”
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A very deft move by Sigrið. Very deft.
I can almost imagine Sigrið and Totil at some future feast, and Sigfrið looking over to Totil, raising his stein, and smiling a cold little smile.
I can almost imagine Sigrið and Totil at some future feast, and Sigfrið looking over to Totil, raising his stein, and smiling a cold little smile.
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Thanks for the comments!
Knut and Sigfrið were rivals so I tried to use that in their relationship. Amazingly Sigfrið and his siblings or children thus far have not become rivals. Also through most of the game Sigfrið and Emma have been lovers as well as husband and wife.
Wait until the next sub chapter which I hope to post tonight. It is going to get interesting.
All I will say is he is young...
It is just getting started.
I have to admit the raids were fun and could pull in a lot of gold quickly.
Knut and Sigfrið were rivals so I tried to use that in their relationship. Amazingly Sigfrið and his siblings or children thus far have not become rivals. Also through most of the game Sigfrið and Emma have been lovers as well as husband and wife.
Wait until the next sub chapter which I hope to post tonight. It is going to get interesting.
Oh man. Totil needs to improve his Chess.
All I will say is he is young...
It is just getting started.
Subbed. Man, I wish the Despot could go on raids...
I have to admit the raids were fun and could pull in a lot of gold quickly.
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Chapter 5.13.3 October 971 Jorvik
21 October 971 Jorvik
Totil stood in the jammed throne room on this crisp autumn day. As Totil waited he tried to judge the mood of the room. It was difficult. He could see and hear those who approved of a holy war against a heretic, an enemy of Rome. He could also sense that there were some like him who detested the coming war. However, he felt that most were indifferent. They would accept whatever the king decreed.
Totil spied Ælfweard across the room. The old grizzled jarl acknowledged Totil with a nod and a smile.
At that moment the Crier announced the king. As King Sigfrið walked to the throne everyone took a knee except for one. That one was Totil. He stood defiantly staring at Sigfrið. Sigfrið noticed him and stared back. Eadburg tugged on Totil’s hand until he slowly took a knee. Sigfrið sat on the throne but his gaze never left Totil. The tension between the two brothers was so thick it could be cut with a knife. Totil’s hand drifted toward the hilt of his sword. Sigfrið cleared his robes from his sword.
Ælfweard seemed to be the only who took all that was happening in. The old jarl mumbled, “Not now, boy,not here.”
The Crier banged his staff on the floor three times. The sound of the metal striking stone broke the tension. Everyone stood. Both Ælfweard and Eadburg let out the breaths they were holding.
Sigfrið then announced, “Court Chaplain Bishop Ivar of St Peters will now read the Declaration.”
Bishop Ivar ascended the dais halfway. He stopped turned toward the audience. He unrolled the scroll and in a booming voice he read, “ By request and with the full blessing of His Holiness Pope Victor IV, Sigfrið, Baron of Richmond; Count of Jorvik, Lancaster”
When Ivar said Lancaster Sigfrið stared directly at Totil. Totil felt the stare said, “You will never get the County of Lancaster.” Fury began to build in Totil.
“Leicester, Warwick, Worcester, Shrewbury; Jarl of Jorvik, Mercia, and King of Jorvik, hereby declare the Holy War for the Duchy of Deheubarth against the heretic Duke Charles.”
Ivar then rolled up the scroll. The chamber broke out into polite applause. Totil was not one of them.
Sigfrið rose and began to walk out of the room. Totil began pushing his way to the front of the audience while paralleling Sigfrið’s path. As he neared the front his sword arm reached down for his blade. Suddenly a strong scarred hand grasped his wrist. The grip was crushing and unyielding. Suddenly another iron grip was on his shoulder. Totil was spun around and came face to face with Ælfweard.
At the moment Ælfweard looked like some Nordic god of old such as Odin. Ælfweard spoke, “I told you once before, laddie, not until all is ready. I will not lose or be betrayed on a rash decision or action.”
Filled with fury Totil thought about drawing hs blade and taking down Ælfweard. One look at the old warrior who seemed to be daring him to do so convinced Totil of the unwisness of such action. Totil relaxed.
Ælfweard smile. “Good to see you come to your senses.”
Totil replied, "We are lost. Only you and I remain. We are just a drop of water that will dry up and disappear."
Ælfweard smiled and said, "Just remember that every river starts as a drop of water."
******
Several hours later the king’s library which today was doubling as the king’s strategy room was full of the lords and commanders of Jorvik. In the center of the room a large table was placed. On the table a large map of Britain and Ireland was draped. Several men were gathered around the map. They were looking and pointing at various places on the map.
Prince Totil and Jarl Ælfweard leaned against a bookcase in a remote corner of the room. They observed the scene unfolding before them with disdain.
Totil said, “We almost had him.”
Ælfweard said, “Yes we did. I fear we far underestimated Sigfrið. Appointing Waltheof as Earl of East Anglia and thus removing Count Ceolwulf of Suffolk was a bold and unexpected move.”
Totil said, “We should have known better than putting our trust in Count Oswulf. He was so easily bought off with gold. He is greedy just like his deceased wife Sæthryth and on top of that a drunk. Hoping that Froði would join us was also foolish.”
Ælfweard said, “Hindsight is good only for learning.Do not dwell in the past, young prince. It will only gnaw at you until it consumes you.”
Count Froði of Mann walked up to Ælfweard and Totil. “Greetings.”
Ælfweard and Totil remained silent.
Froði said, “I hope you are not cross with me for not supporting your cause. I agree that the king needs to be curtailed.”
Totil snapped, “Then why not do something about.”
Froði said, “In the future yes but now is not the right time.”
Totil asked, “And why not?”
Froði responded, “For now we do God’s work. He fights to defend the Holy Church against the heretic Duke Charles.”
Totil was not sure if Froði caught Ælfweard when his eyes rolled back.
Ælfweard then said, “Believe what you want.”
Froði sensed he was not welcome and took his leave. As he walked away Totil said to Ælfweard, “One day I will exact my revenge on him and I will be lord of Mann.”
Ælfweard shook his head and said, “There is nothing worse than a zealot during a religious war.”
A moment later King Sigfrið entered with Marshal Oswulf, and Chancellor Count Ceolwulf in tow. They stopped at the map table. The room grew quiet.
Sigfrið then spoke. “This is how the levies will be organized. Northumberland, Lincoln, and East Anglia will travel by sea to Lancaster and join with Lancaster and Mann. Then you will sail to Leinster and destroy any enemy you find. Command will be under Jarl Waltheof of East Anglia. Prince Totil’s levies, Perfeddwlad, Hereford, Bedford, Shrewsbury, Northampton will join with Gloucester in Gloucester and attack into Gwent. In command will be Mayor Nils of Clun. Lastly Jorvik, Leicester, Warwick, and Worcester will march to Powys and then attack Dyfed. General Kettilmund will command and I will accompany him. Calls to arms have been sent to all our allies. We expect them all to be fighting beside us by year’s end”
A chorus of, “Yes milord” erupted.
Sigfrið said, “Count Oswulf and Count Ceolwulf will now go over specifics with you.”
The war council went on for several hours.
Since Ælfweard and Totil were given no commands they were able to slip out unnoticed. They stood in the dark courtyard listening to the sounds of the night.
Totil asked, “Now what?”
Ælfweard said, “We return to our lands. Raise our levies and send them off to holy war.”
Totil looked at Ælfweard like the old jarl had betrayed him. Ælfweard smiled, “there is little else we can do. Alone at this time we two cannot stand against Sigfrið. We withhold our levies we raise suspicion and possible retribution from the king.”
Totil responded, “So we give in.”
Ælfweard said, “I did not say that. For now we be the good obedient vassals. We keep Sigfrið guessing. We make him think Count Ceolwulf of Suffolk was the source of the discord. We bide our time young prince.”
Totil did not look pleased.
Ælfweard smiled, “This maybe a holy war, but it is still a war. Sooner or later the lords will tire of having their levies raised. As they do we bring them into the fold.”
While Totil did not smile or agree outright he had to admit that Ælfweard was right. Time was their ally. The longer the war the better it was for them.
Totil said, “Here’s to a long war.”
Ælfweard smiled, “Now you are learning.”
Totil stood in the jammed throne room on this crisp autumn day. As Totil waited he tried to judge the mood of the room. It was difficult. He could see and hear those who approved of a holy war against a heretic, an enemy of Rome. He could also sense that there were some like him who detested the coming war. However, he felt that most were indifferent. They would accept whatever the king decreed.
Totil spied Ælfweard across the room. The old grizzled jarl acknowledged Totil with a nod and a smile.
At that moment the Crier announced the king. As King Sigfrið walked to the throne everyone took a knee except for one. That one was Totil. He stood defiantly staring at Sigfrið. Sigfrið noticed him and stared back. Eadburg tugged on Totil’s hand until he slowly took a knee. Sigfrið sat on the throne but his gaze never left Totil. The tension between the two brothers was so thick it could be cut with a knife. Totil’s hand drifted toward the hilt of his sword. Sigfrið cleared his robes from his sword.
Ælfweard seemed to be the only who took all that was happening in. The old jarl mumbled, “Not now, boy,not here.”
The Crier banged his staff on the floor three times. The sound of the metal striking stone broke the tension. Everyone stood. Both Ælfweard and Eadburg let out the breaths they were holding.
Sigfrið then announced, “Court Chaplain Bishop Ivar of St Peters will now read the Declaration.”
Bishop Ivar ascended the dais halfway. He stopped turned toward the audience. He unrolled the scroll and in a booming voice he read, “ By request and with the full blessing of His Holiness Pope Victor IV, Sigfrið, Baron of Richmond; Count of Jorvik, Lancaster”
When Ivar said Lancaster Sigfrið stared directly at Totil. Totil felt the stare said, “You will never get the County of Lancaster.” Fury began to build in Totil.
“Leicester, Warwick, Worcester, Shrewbury; Jarl of Jorvik, Mercia, and King of Jorvik, hereby declare the Holy War for the Duchy of Deheubarth against the heretic Duke Charles.”
Ivar then rolled up the scroll. The chamber broke out into polite applause. Totil was not one of them.
Sigfrið rose and began to walk out of the room. Totil began pushing his way to the front of the audience while paralleling Sigfrið’s path. As he neared the front his sword arm reached down for his blade. Suddenly a strong scarred hand grasped his wrist. The grip was crushing and unyielding. Suddenly another iron grip was on his shoulder. Totil was spun around and came face to face with Ælfweard.
At the moment Ælfweard looked like some Nordic god of old such as Odin. Ælfweard spoke, “I told you once before, laddie, not until all is ready. I will not lose or be betrayed on a rash decision or action.”
Filled with fury Totil thought about drawing hs blade and taking down Ælfweard. One look at the old warrior who seemed to be daring him to do so convinced Totil of the unwisness of such action. Totil relaxed.
Ælfweard smile. “Good to see you come to your senses.”
Totil replied, "We are lost. Only you and I remain. We are just a drop of water that will dry up and disappear."
Ælfweard smiled and said, "Just remember that every river starts as a drop of water."
******
Several hours later the king’s library which today was doubling as the king’s strategy room was full of the lords and commanders of Jorvik. In the center of the room a large table was placed. On the table a large map of Britain and Ireland was draped. Several men were gathered around the map. They were looking and pointing at various places on the map.
Prince Totil and Jarl Ælfweard leaned against a bookcase in a remote corner of the room. They observed the scene unfolding before them with disdain.
Totil said, “We almost had him.”
Ælfweard said, “Yes we did. I fear we far underestimated Sigfrið. Appointing Waltheof as Earl of East Anglia and thus removing Count Ceolwulf of Suffolk was a bold and unexpected move.”
Totil said, “We should have known better than putting our trust in Count Oswulf. He was so easily bought off with gold. He is greedy just like his deceased wife Sæthryth and on top of that a drunk. Hoping that Froði would join us was also foolish.”
Ælfweard said, “Hindsight is good only for learning.Do not dwell in the past, young prince. It will only gnaw at you until it consumes you.”
Count Froði of Mann walked up to Ælfweard and Totil. “Greetings.”
Ælfweard and Totil remained silent.
Froði said, “I hope you are not cross with me for not supporting your cause. I agree that the king needs to be curtailed.”
Totil snapped, “Then why not do something about.”
Froði said, “In the future yes but now is not the right time.”
Totil asked, “And why not?”
Froði responded, “For now we do God’s work. He fights to defend the Holy Church against the heretic Duke Charles.”
Totil was not sure if Froði caught Ælfweard when his eyes rolled back.
Ælfweard then said, “Believe what you want.”
Froði sensed he was not welcome and took his leave. As he walked away Totil said to Ælfweard, “One day I will exact my revenge on him and I will be lord of Mann.”
Ælfweard shook his head and said, “There is nothing worse than a zealot during a religious war.”
A moment later King Sigfrið entered with Marshal Oswulf, and Chancellor Count Ceolwulf in tow. They stopped at the map table. The room grew quiet.
Sigfrið then spoke. “This is how the levies will be organized. Northumberland, Lincoln, and East Anglia will travel by sea to Lancaster and join with Lancaster and Mann. Then you will sail to Leinster and destroy any enemy you find. Command will be under Jarl Waltheof of East Anglia. Prince Totil’s levies, Perfeddwlad, Hereford, Bedford, Shrewsbury, Northampton will join with Gloucester in Gloucester and attack into Gwent. In command will be Mayor Nils of Clun. Lastly Jorvik, Leicester, Warwick, and Worcester will march to Powys and then attack Dyfed. General Kettilmund will command and I will accompany him. Calls to arms have been sent to all our allies. We expect them all to be fighting beside us by year’s end”
A chorus of, “Yes milord” erupted.
Sigfrið said, “Count Oswulf and Count Ceolwulf will now go over specifics with you.”
The war council went on for several hours.
Since Ælfweard and Totil were given no commands they were able to slip out unnoticed. They stood in the dark courtyard listening to the sounds of the night.
Totil asked, “Now what?”
Ælfweard said, “We return to our lands. Raise our levies and send them off to holy war.”
Totil looked at Ælfweard like the old jarl had betrayed him. Ælfweard smiled, “there is little else we can do. Alone at this time we two cannot stand against Sigfrið. We withhold our levies we raise suspicion and possible retribution from the king.”
Totil responded, “So we give in.”
Ælfweard said, “I did not say that. For now we be the good obedient vassals. We keep Sigfrið guessing. We make him think Count Ceolwulf of Suffolk was the source of the discord. We bide our time young prince.”
Totil did not look pleased.
Ælfweard smiled, “This maybe a holy war, but it is still a war. Sooner or later the lords will tire of having their levies raised. As they do we bring them into the fold.”
While Totil did not smile or agree outright he had to admit that Ælfweard was right. Time was their ally. The longer the war the better it was for them.
Totil said, “Here’s to a long war.”
Ælfweard smiled, “Now you are learning.”
- 1
Theirs remains a dangerous path to walk. I hope they do not get cocky.
- 1
I've not been Sigfrið's biggest fan but I think I like Totil even less. He seems incapable doing much on his own and has to be led away from disaster of his own making at every turn.
- 1
Chapter 5.14.1 December 971 near Dinefwr, County of Dyfed
Chapter 5.14
21 December 971 near Dinefwr, County of Dyfed
The wintry wind blew threw the camp. It seemed like no one could escape its icy tentacles. The sides of the command tent were pulled tight and tied off securely. The wind still found ways to penetrate into the interior. A small fire pit struggled to keep the occupants of the tent from freezing to death.
Sigfrið pulled the furs wrapped around his body tighter. He tried to warm his hands over the fire. A servant brought him a bowl of hot broth. Sigfrið didn’t know whether to just hold it soaking in its warm or drink it. Eventually he took several sips. The broth had the desired effects and Sigfrið thought he felt slightly warmer. Sigfrið was beginning to wish for a siege because at least then they could build a lodge instead of this tent.
Kettilmund entered the tent. Someone yelled to have the tent flap closed as the cold air rushed in. Sigfrið marveled at Kettilmund. Nothing seemed to bother him. Not the cold or the marching all day Kettilmund just kept going and never complaining.
Kettilmund walked over to Sigfrið, “Reminds one of the Siege of Monkontour. But if memory serves me right it was colder at Monkontour.”
Sigfrið nodded. He did not want to open his mouth and let any of the warmth from the broth to escape.
Kettilmund said, “We have finally received word from Jarl Waltheof.”
Sigfrið nodded Kettilmund to continue, “Duke Charles has handed over command to Prince Carloman of Lotharingia who is also Count of Leinster. It appears that Carloman has more troops in Leinster than we were told he would have. It looks like he has all the levies of Deheubarth with him.”
Sigfrið asked, “How many does he have?”
Kettilmund responded, “Waltheof estimates between 3,500 and 4,000. About twice the number Spymaster Froði reported.”
Sigfrið said, “Waltheof has what about 2,000.”
Kettilmund said, “A little over 2,200.”
Sigfrið said, “That is almost two to one odds against Waltheof. Those are odds I do not care for.”
Kettilmund said, “I agree. I believe these Deheubarthians will be a much tougher fight than their brethren to the north, the Gwyneddians were. Many of these troops particularly the ones from Leinster fought with Carloman when he was Count of Marrakesh. They are battle hardened having fought the Muslims for many years. They will not give up easily or run.”
Sigfrið nodded.
Kettimund asked, “How did a Lotharingian come to rule Marrakesh and Leinster?”
Sigfrið smiled. He remembered his tutors and his father drilling him to remember the heritage of the surrounding rulers. Backing the wrong sibling or cousin could be a fatal mistake.
Sigfrið began, “King Manassés of Aquitaine had three sons, Gilles, Carloman, and Orson. Manassés conquered Lotharingia as a claimant and became King of Lotharingia and Aquitaine. Carloman and Orson's mother was the Countess of Leinster who was a vassal of Queen Bronwen of Deheubarth. When his mother died Carloman began Count of Leinster under Queen Bronwen. As King of Lotharingia Manassés conquered Marrakesh in a holy war.
“When Manassés died Orson inherited Marrakesh and Aquitaine since Gilles was heir apparent to Lotharingia. However, Lotharingia is an elective monarch. Gilles lost the election to Herbert and thus Gilles inherited nothing.”
“When Orson died in battle with the Lombard Revolt and did not have an heir, Gilles became King of Aquitaine and Carloman became Count of Marrakesh.”
Kettilmund shook his head, “Is that the same Gillies your sister Alfrið is married to?”
Sigfrið said, “Yes it is.” Sigfrið was struck with a pang of guilt. His father Knut had used Alfrið as a bargaining chip to gain the trust of King Manassés. However, everything collapsed when Alfrið’s bizarre behavior was attributed to her being possessed by an evil spirit. She had been locked in a convent for some 20 years now.
Sigfrið said, “We have a concern about Carloman. He has no heir. So if he dies Gillies will inherit Leinster and then Aquitaine will be at our doorstep and that could be a problem. So by all means let’s make sure Carloman does not die in battle.”
Kettilmund smiled and said, “Yes, milord.”
Sigfrið chuckled, “ As my trusted advisor what do you recommend that we do about Carloman?”
Kettilmund thought and then answered, “Mayor Nils is already besieging Caerwent in Gwent and met almost no resistance while marching toward it. We ourselves have seen little resistance. There are Gwyneddian troops marching toward Glamorgan as we speak. Since destroying the Deheubarthian army is our top priority I would recommend crossing the St George’s Channel and join with Waltheof. Then we pursue and crush Carloman and his army.”
Sigfrið said, “Make the preparations and let us go destroy Carloman and his army.”
21 December 971 near Dinefwr, County of Dyfed
The wintry wind blew threw the camp. It seemed like no one could escape its icy tentacles. The sides of the command tent were pulled tight and tied off securely. The wind still found ways to penetrate into the interior. A small fire pit struggled to keep the occupants of the tent from freezing to death.
Sigfrið pulled the furs wrapped around his body tighter. He tried to warm his hands over the fire. A servant brought him a bowl of hot broth. Sigfrið didn’t know whether to just hold it soaking in its warm or drink it. Eventually he took several sips. The broth had the desired effects and Sigfrið thought he felt slightly warmer. Sigfrið was beginning to wish for a siege because at least then they could build a lodge instead of this tent.
Kettilmund entered the tent. Someone yelled to have the tent flap closed as the cold air rushed in. Sigfrið marveled at Kettilmund. Nothing seemed to bother him. Not the cold or the marching all day Kettilmund just kept going and never complaining.
Kettilmund walked over to Sigfrið, “Reminds one of the Siege of Monkontour. But if memory serves me right it was colder at Monkontour.”
Sigfrið nodded. He did not want to open his mouth and let any of the warmth from the broth to escape.
Kettilmund said, “We have finally received word from Jarl Waltheof.”
Sigfrið nodded Kettilmund to continue, “Duke Charles has handed over command to Prince Carloman of Lotharingia who is also Count of Leinster. It appears that Carloman has more troops in Leinster than we were told he would have. It looks like he has all the levies of Deheubarth with him.”
Sigfrið asked, “How many does he have?”
Kettilmund responded, “Waltheof estimates between 3,500 and 4,000. About twice the number Spymaster Froði reported.”
Sigfrið said, “Waltheof has what about 2,000.”
Kettilmund said, “A little over 2,200.”
Sigfrið said, “That is almost two to one odds against Waltheof. Those are odds I do not care for.”
Kettilmund said, “I agree. I believe these Deheubarthians will be a much tougher fight than their brethren to the north, the Gwyneddians were. Many of these troops particularly the ones from Leinster fought with Carloman when he was Count of Marrakesh. They are battle hardened having fought the Muslims for many years. They will not give up easily or run.”
Sigfrið nodded.
Kettimund asked, “How did a Lotharingian come to rule Marrakesh and Leinster?”
Sigfrið smiled. He remembered his tutors and his father drilling him to remember the heritage of the surrounding rulers. Backing the wrong sibling or cousin could be a fatal mistake.
Sigfrið began, “King Manassés of Aquitaine had three sons, Gilles, Carloman, and Orson. Manassés conquered Lotharingia as a claimant and became King of Lotharingia and Aquitaine. Carloman and Orson's mother was the Countess of Leinster who was a vassal of Queen Bronwen of Deheubarth. When his mother died Carloman began Count of Leinster under Queen Bronwen. As King of Lotharingia Manassés conquered Marrakesh in a holy war.
“When Manassés died Orson inherited Marrakesh and Aquitaine since Gilles was heir apparent to Lotharingia. However, Lotharingia is an elective monarch. Gilles lost the election to Herbert and thus Gilles inherited nothing.”
“When Orson died in battle with the Lombard Revolt and did not have an heir, Gilles became King of Aquitaine and Carloman became Count of Marrakesh.”
Kettilmund shook his head, “Is that the same Gillies your sister Alfrið is married to?”
Sigfrið said, “Yes it is.” Sigfrið was struck with a pang of guilt. His father Knut had used Alfrið as a bargaining chip to gain the trust of King Manassés. However, everything collapsed when Alfrið’s bizarre behavior was attributed to her being possessed by an evil spirit. She had been locked in a convent for some 20 years now.
Sigfrið said, “We have a concern about Carloman. He has no heir. So if he dies Gillies will inherit Leinster and then Aquitaine will be at our doorstep and that could be a problem. So by all means let’s make sure Carloman does not die in battle.”
Kettilmund smiled and said, “Yes, milord.”
Sigfrið chuckled, “ As my trusted advisor what do you recommend that we do about Carloman?”
Kettilmund thought and then answered, “Mayor Nils is already besieging Caerwent in Gwent and met almost no resistance while marching toward it. We ourselves have seen little resistance. There are Gwyneddian troops marching toward Glamorgan as we speak. Since destroying the Deheubarthian army is our top priority I would recommend crossing the St George’s Channel and join with Waltheof. Then we pursue and crush Carloman and his army.”
Sigfrið said, “Make the preparations and let us go destroy Carloman and his army.”
- 1
Chapter 5.14.2 February 972 Dún Caiseal, County of Urmhumhain
13 February 972 Dún Caiseal, County of Urmhumhain
As he had all day thus far Sigfrið watched in frustration as the battle raged before him. The ground that Carloman chose to defend rendered Sigfrið and his flank spectators. They were in a small narrow valley. While the slopes of the valley were not steep they were strewn with rocks and boulders which played havoc with the anyone’s footing. Here and there were small clusters of trees or large bushes. No cavalry could charge across them and the infantry would have difficulty staying together. Carloman had managed to find the only rising in the valley and stationed his defenders there forcing the Jorvikians to attack uphill and in a narrow front.
Sigfrið desperate to do something sent some cavalry scouts to see if they could find a route around the flank and into the rear of Carloman’s army. That was over three hours ago.
Sigfrið now watched the third infantry assault of the day collapse. It started with a few men retreating. Then small squads fell back and finally companies. Now the entire force was retreating. Sigfrið was impressed that they maintain their discipline and order. That is Kettilmund’s training Sigfrið thought.
A short time and the last of the retreating infantry reached the safety of the shield and archers Jarl Waltheof of East Anglia and General Kettilmund rode up to Sigfrið.
Waltheof said, “Prince Carloman has learned his craft well.”
Kettilmund said, “And his troops fight hard and unyielding.”
Waltheof asked, “Have you heard back from your scouts?”
Sigfrið responded, “Nothing not a word.”
Waltheof said, “The light is fading. Curse these heavy clouds if it wasn’t for them we would have another hour or two of light.”
Kettilmund said, “We knew this could be a battle of attrition and since we outnumber him 7,500 to 3,000 we can withstand the losses more. However if Carloman holds the field at nightfall the morale of our troops could plummet. We could see desperation and panic in the morning.”
Waltheof said, “time grows short.”
Kettilmund said, “We have time for one more attack. I would like to concentrate as many bows as we can against a portion of their line and hit it with a cavalry charge followed by an infantry charge across the width of their lines.”
Sigfrið and Waltheof nodded.
Kettilmund said, “Sire, I am including your forces in the attack. You soldiers are doing nothing here and are fresh. Carloman’s troops have been fighting all day and have to be weary.”
Sigfrið agreed.
A little over an hour ago the attack got under way. Infantry advanced with archers on their heels. The advanced stopped and suddenly nearly 900 archers fire. Sigfrið thought the arrows darken the sky. The first volley arrived onto the Deheubarthians. There the clang and thud of the arrows hitting shield. Here and there a few cries of pain as arrows found flesh and bone. Sigfrið thought too few defenders were falling.
The Jorvikian line crept forward. The archers fired again. Then they moved forward again and again the archers fired. More defenders went down. Sigfrið was concerned it was not enough.
Now the Deheubarthian archers responded. Amongst the Deheubarthians archer were some who used the longbow. The cursed bow of the Welsh had far greater striking power and the well trained bowmen could fire quickly. Jorvikians went down in what seemed to be droves to Sigfrið.
Sigfrið was becoming concerned that any advantage they had was waning away. Then Kettilmund signaled the cavalry charge. The horsemen leapt forward at a trot and increased speed. The infantry then adjusted to allow the charging cavalry to pass..
After a few moments the Deheubarthian archers starting firing at the horsemen. Many went down.Finally the cavalry struck the Deheubarthians. The line wavered but did not break. The charge lost momentum. Deheubarth began pulling the calvarymen off their horses.
Suddenly a huge wedge of infantry struck the Deheubarthians. They had not expected the infantry charge thinking the cavalry was the last attempt by the Jorvikians. After standing their ground all day and now faced with an unexpected infantry charge some defenders began to waiver. Jorvikians began to break through. One or two here and there and then a flood.
The Deheubarthians fell back in good order. But as the pressure mounted and more defenders fell they began to panic. Jorvikians archers joined the fray at close range raking the Deheubarthians. The Deheubarthian light infantry suffered horribly under the attack. The Jorvikians could feel the flow of the battle going their way at last.
Sigfrið had joined the infantry charge wisely on foot.With a group of infantry Sigfrið fought his way through the defenders. As the Deheubarthian infantry faded from in front of him Sigfrið could see calvary getting ready to charge.
“Shields” screamed Sigfrið. Jorvikian infantry rallied to their king. Shields went up and were anchored together and to the ground. Swords, pikes, halberds, and axes were made ready. A group of archers ran up behind the shield wall.
The cavalry charged.
Sigfrið yelled, “Loose!” The archers fired. Several horses and riders went down. Not many but just enough to break the momentum of the charge. The calvary hit the Jorvikian line. Several horsemen broke through. Chaos reigned. The Jorvikian reinforcements arrived and the cavalry fled.
At some point Sigfrið was knocked off his feet and fell into the muck of the battlefield. He managed to get to his feet and discovered other than stunned he was unhurt. Unfortunately a trembling spell struck him. He fell to his knees. Several nearby soldiers thinking him wounded rushed to aid him. The spell quickly past and Sigfrið regained his composure to the joy of those soldiers around him.
Kettilmund rode up to the king. “The field is ours.”
Sigfrið asked, “What of Carloman and his army?”
Kettilmund responded, “They are retreating but it is not a rout. His rearguard is making it tough for our pursuing troops.”
Sigfrið asked, “Will he reach and cross St George’s Channel before us?”
Kettilmund said, “I fear he will. We can not get around his army on these damn roads as your scouts found out.”
Sigfrið said, “Damn it. Get word to Mayor Nils to expect Carloman and his army.”
Kettilmund said, “Yes”
As Kettilmund began to turn his horse to leave Sigfrið said, “And find my horse.”
A few moments later Sigfrið’s squire appeared leading the king’s horse.
As he had all day thus far Sigfrið watched in frustration as the battle raged before him. The ground that Carloman chose to defend rendered Sigfrið and his flank spectators. They were in a small narrow valley. While the slopes of the valley were not steep they were strewn with rocks and boulders which played havoc with the anyone’s footing. Here and there were small clusters of trees or large bushes. No cavalry could charge across them and the infantry would have difficulty staying together. Carloman had managed to find the only rising in the valley and stationed his defenders there forcing the Jorvikians to attack uphill and in a narrow front.
Sigfrið desperate to do something sent some cavalry scouts to see if they could find a route around the flank and into the rear of Carloman’s army. That was over three hours ago.
Sigfrið now watched the third infantry assault of the day collapse. It started with a few men retreating. Then small squads fell back and finally companies. Now the entire force was retreating. Sigfrið was impressed that they maintain their discipline and order. That is Kettilmund’s training Sigfrið thought.
A short time and the last of the retreating infantry reached the safety of the shield and archers Jarl Waltheof of East Anglia and General Kettilmund rode up to Sigfrið.
Waltheof said, “Prince Carloman has learned his craft well.”
Kettilmund said, “And his troops fight hard and unyielding.”
Waltheof asked, “Have you heard back from your scouts?”
Sigfrið responded, “Nothing not a word.”
Waltheof said, “The light is fading. Curse these heavy clouds if it wasn’t for them we would have another hour or two of light.”
Kettilmund said, “We knew this could be a battle of attrition and since we outnumber him 7,500 to 3,000 we can withstand the losses more. However if Carloman holds the field at nightfall the morale of our troops could plummet. We could see desperation and panic in the morning.”
Waltheof said, “time grows short.”
Kettilmund said, “We have time for one more attack. I would like to concentrate as many bows as we can against a portion of their line and hit it with a cavalry charge followed by an infantry charge across the width of their lines.”
Sigfrið and Waltheof nodded.
Kettilmund said, “Sire, I am including your forces in the attack. You soldiers are doing nothing here and are fresh. Carloman’s troops have been fighting all day and have to be weary.”
Sigfrið agreed.
A little over an hour ago the attack got under way. Infantry advanced with archers on their heels. The advanced stopped and suddenly nearly 900 archers fire. Sigfrið thought the arrows darken the sky. The first volley arrived onto the Deheubarthians. There the clang and thud of the arrows hitting shield. Here and there a few cries of pain as arrows found flesh and bone. Sigfrið thought too few defenders were falling.
The Jorvikian line crept forward. The archers fired again. Then they moved forward again and again the archers fired. More defenders went down. Sigfrið was concerned it was not enough.
Now the Deheubarthian archers responded. Amongst the Deheubarthians archer were some who used the longbow. The cursed bow of the Welsh had far greater striking power and the well trained bowmen could fire quickly. Jorvikians went down in what seemed to be droves to Sigfrið.
Sigfrið was becoming concerned that any advantage they had was waning away. Then Kettilmund signaled the cavalry charge. The horsemen leapt forward at a trot and increased speed. The infantry then adjusted to allow the charging cavalry to pass..
After a few moments the Deheubarthian archers starting firing at the horsemen. Many went down.Finally the cavalry struck the Deheubarthians. The line wavered but did not break. The charge lost momentum. Deheubarth began pulling the calvarymen off their horses.
Suddenly a huge wedge of infantry struck the Deheubarthians. They had not expected the infantry charge thinking the cavalry was the last attempt by the Jorvikians. After standing their ground all day and now faced with an unexpected infantry charge some defenders began to waiver. Jorvikians began to break through. One or two here and there and then a flood.
The Deheubarthians fell back in good order. But as the pressure mounted and more defenders fell they began to panic. Jorvikians archers joined the fray at close range raking the Deheubarthians. The Deheubarthian light infantry suffered horribly under the attack. The Jorvikians could feel the flow of the battle going their way at last.
Sigfrið had joined the infantry charge wisely on foot.With a group of infantry Sigfrið fought his way through the defenders. As the Deheubarthian infantry faded from in front of him Sigfrið could see calvary getting ready to charge.
“Shields” screamed Sigfrið. Jorvikian infantry rallied to their king. Shields went up and were anchored together and to the ground. Swords, pikes, halberds, and axes were made ready. A group of archers ran up behind the shield wall.
The cavalry charged.
Sigfrið yelled, “Loose!” The archers fired. Several horses and riders went down. Not many but just enough to break the momentum of the charge. The calvary hit the Jorvikian line. Several horsemen broke through. Chaos reigned. The Jorvikian reinforcements arrived and the cavalry fled.
At some point Sigfrið was knocked off his feet and fell into the muck of the battlefield. He managed to get to his feet and discovered other than stunned he was unhurt. Unfortunately a trembling spell struck him. He fell to his knees. Several nearby soldiers thinking him wounded rushed to aid him. The spell quickly past and Sigfrið regained his composure to the joy of those soldiers around him.
Kettilmund rode up to the king. “The field is ours.”
Sigfrið asked, “What of Carloman and his army?”
Kettilmund responded, “They are retreating but it is not a rout. His rearguard is making it tough for our pursuing troops.”
Sigfrið asked, “Will he reach and cross St George’s Channel before us?”
Kettilmund said, “I fear he will. We can not get around his army on these damn roads as your scouts found out.”
Sigfrið said, “Damn it. Get word to Mayor Nils to expect Carloman and his army.”
Kettilmund said, “Yes”
As Kettilmund began to turn his horse to leave Sigfrið said, “And find my horse.”
A few moments later Sigfrið’s squire appeared leading the king’s horse.
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A very close run battle - born out in teh casualty figures. Quite fun in a way - usually battles seem more lop-sided.
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That defensive ground must have been good for them to hold out against those numbers without any real troop type advantage. Meanwhile, Sigfrið loses men and can't win a decisive victory, potentially leading to internal problems in the future...
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Chapter 5.14.3 October 972 Siege Lines Outside of Cardiff, County Glamorgan
14 October 972 Siege Lines Outside of Cardiff, County Glamorgan
The tavern was perhaps the cleanest and safest tavern in the British Isles since it had been commandeered by Sigfrið as his residence during the siege. The owner or owners had disappeared when the Jorvikian army arrived. This morning Sigfrið sat alone at a table in the common room eating a late breakfast.
The tavern door opened and Count Ceolwulf of Northampton, Chancellor of Jorvik stepped in. Ceolwulf was covered in dust and dirt. His clothes were somewhat disheveled. Ceolwulf was actually the last person Sigfrið expected at this time.
Ceolwulf stepped before the king, “Pardon this interruption, Sire.”
Sigfrið looked at Ceolwulf and said, “You look like you need a good meal.”
Ceolwulf said, “I have been riding hard for several days now. Thank you milord.”
Sigfrið said, “Go wash up.” The king called a servant and ordered him to show Ceolwulf where he could refresh. Ceolwulf followed him.
A few minutes later a cleaner and somewhat refreshed Ceolwulf sat down with Sigfrið. A meal was placed before him and he ate with gusto.
When Ceolwulf finished Sigfrið asked, “What brings you to my tavern?”
Ceolwulf whipped his mouth and placed his napkin on the table, “There have been several more incidents with Steward Haraldr Hjalmarsson Akra. Several of the tax collectors are complaining that he makes them play childish play games when they bring their collections to him. Now apparently he has taken to talking to birds about how the taxes are collected.”
Sigfrið shook his head and sighed, “ I have been aware that there has been some issues lately with his behavior. I do not understand Bishop Ivar of Elmham highly recommended Haraldr to be his replacement once the bishop returned to Norfolk. I fear that Haraldr may be slipping into madness.”
Ceolwulf said, “Madness? He is a stark raving lunatic.”
They both laughed. Sigfrið then said, “I have thought about this and I feel it is time to remove Haraldr as Steward and replace him with Jarl Waltheof of East Anglia.”
Sigfrið asked, “Any further information on how Kettilmund and his army were surprised and almost defeated by Prince Carloman at Llandaff back in April?”
Ceolwulf answered, “Yes, milord. After Caerwent was captured in August we found information showing that the spy network that was established here in Deheubarth was sloppily done and carelessly implemented. Many of the agents were already working for Deheubarth. They pretty much knew what we were doing all the time and feed us false information. After seeing this I was truly in awe that Kettilmund was able to gain a victory at Llandaff.”
Sigfrið eyes narrowed as he asked, “And who was responsible for this mess?”
Ceolwulf replied, “Spymaster Count Froði of Mann personally saw to the creation of the spy network before the war began.”
Sigfrið said, “That is disappointing to hear.”
Ceolwulf said, “There is more. Count Froði has been frequently seen in the company of your brother Prince Totil and Jarl Ælfweard of Northumberland. Rumors say he has joined their faction to Increase Council Power.”
Sigfrið said, “That is even more disappointing.”
Ceolwulf said, “Their faction is very strong even before Froði joined it. I fear if they gain one more sizable count they will feel that their time is right to make a formal demand.”
Sigfrið said, “I know Froði did not add much power to their cause. His levies are very weak. I am surprised since I know my brother hates Froði and covets the County of Mann. I see Ælfweard in this. They are using Froði to recruit others. Once they no longer need him they will discard him.”
Ceolwulf said, “That makes sense.”
Sigfrið smirked, “Let us muddy the waters and drive a small wedge between conspirators.”
Ceolwulf looked confused.
Sigfrið continued, “On your way back to Jorvik I want you to visit Chester. Let Totil know that the crown will not intervene in any dispute over a claim on Mann. Also inform him that I will provide him with funds to aid him in any claims dispute.”
Ceolwulf said, “That will send Ælfweard into a fit. Totil will be absorbed in his conquest of Mann.”
Sigfrið said, “Now to drive that old jarl insane, fire Froði as Spymaster. With Totil baring down on him Froði will run to Ælfweard for protection and help. If Ælfweard helps him Totil will never forgive him. If he abandons Froði he will be branded as someone who does not help his friends.”
Ceolwulf smiled, “Who will be Spymaster?”
Sigfrið said, “We’ll appoint Siweard of Lincoln. That should keep him from joining with Totil and Ælfweard for a while.”
Sigfrið then looked at Ceolwulf, “Now why did you really come?”
Ceolwulf replied, “Queen Emma.”
Sigfrið laughed, “I should have know only she can drive someone to abandon all other tasks in lieu of her demands. Well what is it?”
Ceolwulf replied, “It is about Eilif.”
Sigfrið stiffened, “What concerns my son?”
Ceolwulf responded, “Eilif and Hrolfr the youngest son of Haraldr keep getting into fights. Lately it has been getting physical. Hrolfr is 18 now and Eilif is 13 and Hrolfr is almost twice the size of Eilif. The last fight they battled with sticks. Both were pretty bloody by the time they were separated. Due to the size and age difference Eilif got the worst of it. Emma is worried that at some point that someone could get seriously hurt or worse killed.”
Ceolwulf could see the rage building in Sigfrið. One thing Sigfrið was was protective of his only heir.
Sigfrið said in a venomous voice, “Along with firing Haraldr send him to some Godforsaken corner of the kingdom to study birds. And tell him to take Hrolfr. If either balk explain to them it is not a choice, it is a royal decree.”
Ceolwulf replied, “Yes, Sire, it shall be done.”
The tavern was perhaps the cleanest and safest tavern in the British Isles since it had been commandeered by Sigfrið as his residence during the siege. The owner or owners had disappeared when the Jorvikian army arrived. This morning Sigfrið sat alone at a table in the common room eating a late breakfast.
The tavern door opened and Count Ceolwulf of Northampton, Chancellor of Jorvik stepped in. Ceolwulf was covered in dust and dirt. His clothes were somewhat disheveled. Ceolwulf was actually the last person Sigfrið expected at this time.
Ceolwulf stepped before the king, “Pardon this interruption, Sire.”
Sigfrið looked at Ceolwulf and said, “You look like you need a good meal.”
Ceolwulf said, “I have been riding hard for several days now. Thank you milord.”
Sigfrið said, “Go wash up.” The king called a servant and ordered him to show Ceolwulf where he could refresh. Ceolwulf followed him.
A few minutes later a cleaner and somewhat refreshed Ceolwulf sat down with Sigfrið. A meal was placed before him and he ate with gusto.
When Ceolwulf finished Sigfrið asked, “What brings you to my tavern?”
Ceolwulf whipped his mouth and placed his napkin on the table, “There have been several more incidents with Steward Haraldr Hjalmarsson Akra. Several of the tax collectors are complaining that he makes them play childish play games when they bring their collections to him. Now apparently he has taken to talking to birds about how the taxes are collected.”
Sigfrið shook his head and sighed, “ I have been aware that there has been some issues lately with his behavior. I do not understand Bishop Ivar of Elmham highly recommended Haraldr to be his replacement once the bishop returned to Norfolk. I fear that Haraldr may be slipping into madness.”
Ceolwulf said, “Madness? He is a stark raving lunatic.”
They both laughed. Sigfrið then said, “I have thought about this and I feel it is time to remove Haraldr as Steward and replace him with Jarl Waltheof of East Anglia.”
Sigfrið asked, “Any further information on how Kettilmund and his army were surprised and almost defeated by Prince Carloman at Llandaff back in April?”
Ceolwulf answered, “Yes, milord. After Caerwent was captured in August we found information showing that the spy network that was established here in Deheubarth was sloppily done and carelessly implemented. Many of the agents were already working for Deheubarth. They pretty much knew what we were doing all the time and feed us false information. After seeing this I was truly in awe that Kettilmund was able to gain a victory at Llandaff.”
Sigfrið eyes narrowed as he asked, “And who was responsible for this mess?”
Ceolwulf replied, “Spymaster Count Froði of Mann personally saw to the creation of the spy network before the war began.”
Sigfrið said, “That is disappointing to hear.”
Ceolwulf said, “There is more. Count Froði has been frequently seen in the company of your brother Prince Totil and Jarl Ælfweard of Northumberland. Rumors say he has joined their faction to Increase Council Power.”
Sigfrið said, “That is even more disappointing.”
Ceolwulf said, “Their faction is very strong even before Froði joined it. I fear if they gain one more sizable count they will feel that their time is right to make a formal demand.”
Sigfrið said, “I know Froði did not add much power to their cause. His levies are very weak. I am surprised since I know my brother hates Froði and covets the County of Mann. I see Ælfweard in this. They are using Froði to recruit others. Once they no longer need him they will discard him.”
Ceolwulf said, “That makes sense.”
Sigfrið smirked, “Let us muddy the waters and drive a small wedge between conspirators.”
Ceolwulf looked confused.
Sigfrið continued, “On your way back to Jorvik I want you to visit Chester. Let Totil know that the crown will not intervene in any dispute over a claim on Mann. Also inform him that I will provide him with funds to aid him in any claims dispute.”
Ceolwulf said, “That will send Ælfweard into a fit. Totil will be absorbed in his conquest of Mann.”
Sigfrið said, “Now to drive that old jarl insane, fire Froði as Spymaster. With Totil baring down on him Froði will run to Ælfweard for protection and help. If Ælfweard helps him Totil will never forgive him. If he abandons Froði he will be branded as someone who does not help his friends.”
Ceolwulf smiled, “Who will be Spymaster?”
Sigfrið said, “We’ll appoint Siweard of Lincoln. That should keep him from joining with Totil and Ælfweard for a while.”
Sigfrið then looked at Ceolwulf, “Now why did you really come?”
Ceolwulf replied, “Queen Emma.”
Sigfrið laughed, “I should have know only she can drive someone to abandon all other tasks in lieu of her demands. Well what is it?”
Ceolwulf replied, “It is about Eilif.”
Sigfrið stiffened, “What concerns my son?”
Ceolwulf responded, “Eilif and Hrolfr the youngest son of Haraldr keep getting into fights. Lately it has been getting physical. Hrolfr is 18 now and Eilif is 13 and Hrolfr is almost twice the size of Eilif. The last fight they battled with sticks. Both were pretty bloody by the time they were separated. Due to the size and age difference Eilif got the worst of it. Emma is worried that at some point that someone could get seriously hurt or worse killed.”
Ceolwulf could see the rage building in Sigfrið. One thing Sigfrið was was protective of his only heir.
Sigfrið said in a venomous voice, “Along with firing Haraldr send him to some Godforsaken corner of the kingdom to study birds. And tell him to take Hrolfr. If either balk explain to them it is not a choice, it is a royal decree.”
Ceolwulf replied, “Yes, Sire, it shall be done.”
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Just what Sigfrið needs - to worry about domestic matters in the middle of a siege!
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