The Wars of the Roses

[coz1]

More fb-fb:

It is redundant to say, but; Yes, concurred.

And no, cannot even bestow the word appreciation for that chap, or for the works. They are numerous though; prolific production can be a point. But still, every time an actor spurting a comment about that chap being the most [insert random adjective] writer brings a sudden turn of head with closed eyes, hand on forehead, and a thunderous headache of despair.

Yet the legacy of those works indirectly gave the world Dame Judi Dench, Dame Maggie Smith, Dame Vanessa Redgrave, Mia Farrow, Dame Helen Mirren, Sinéad Cusack, Whoopi Goldberg, Dame Emma Thompson, Viola Davis, Emily Watson, Moses Ingram, and some more others (lol, the list is nowhere near exhaustive); so some credit is due. Or few. Sort of.



On the other hand, the more curious part that prompted now this post is that lightning-transition; that from the images of an obscure game of 90s given as the nostalgia-reason, to the case of Willy-chap the Hack against Vladka, and from there to end up in Thin Lizzy (“all right…”), Scorpions (“meh”), Golden Earrings (“now we’re talking”). All the while the intention was to point out own reason for obsessing with the AAR, and that reason was the game, rather than the shakey-chap.

That lightning-transition is beautiful.

Can only counter-reply it with an abrupt-transition, so sharp that it can be considered as a shock-cut;

No, the actual question should be: "How many times have you seen the 1981 film Scanners directed by David Cronenberg? This might be York's reaction..."
Of course the answer is it will never be enough.

Now. Back to re-reading. 5th time. See you on the other side.

Curious you don't list any of the great male Shakespearean actors - Olivier, Ian KcKellen, Derek Jacobi, et al. Don't get me wrong, I actually do like ol Bill. Just more for his tragedies and comedies.

Well, a bastard is technically the "rightful heir" right now.

That's going to cause a lot of conflict. Like ASOIAF's Blackfyre Rebellions

The amount of claimants is already complicated, so indeed yes - a bastard now in line creates a great deal of trouble.

Well that is excellent news, I do look forward to finding out what it is.

On a personal note I also hope that at some point you do recover from the terrible brain injury that has left you thinking that Nabokov is even worth reading, let alone better than Shakespeare. Because there can be no other explanation for such catastrophically incorrect opinions.

How else are we to get into the minds of characters who want to do their siblings?

Philistines! Nabokov is my absolute favorite writer not so much for the story elements but his use of language. I mean English was his THIRD language and those are arguably his greatest works. Really wish I could read Russian because I bet that is beautiful!


To all - the next scene arrives in just a moment and I can say that it was a fun one to write. Thank you all for your reading and giving comment!

Also, make sure to vote in the ACAs. Last week to do so. Remember that you need not vote for this work (though always appreciated) but please do vote to support those writAARs you enjoy.

 

[coz1]

London, November 1453​

The gathering of magnates at St. Paul’s Cross was the largest seen in many years, likely since the coronation of Henry VI at Westminster in 1422. It was so large that it was held out of doors from the Cathedral where many public proclamations were made. Every adult Duke of the realm was present including York, Buckingham, Somerset, Exeter and Norfolk. The Earls of Warwick, Oxford, Devon and Salisbury were there as was the northern Earl of Northumberland. The newly created Earls of Richmond and Pembroke were included and given preference due to their familial relation to the King. The Barons represented in plentiful numbers including Bonville, Scales, Welles, Clifford, Cobham, Dacre, Rivers and Scrope.

The Lords spiritual were also represented especially both the Archbishop of Canterbury and William Booth, the Archbishop of York. This created an uncomfortable situation as the two men hated one another, but as Kempe also led the Council as Lord Chancellor he was given preference and now led this most uncomfortable proceeding. In his finest robes he strode forth and stepped into the pulpit to bring them to order.

“My Lords...we gather to here on this most auspicious day for one reason and one reason alone. As you have all been made aware, His Grace King Henry the sixth of his name has found issue and a son. An heir, my Lords. Named Edward the Duke of Cornwall and born of Her Grace Queen Margaret, blessed be by Almighty God.”

There was some hemming and hawing amongst the gathering, but Kempe kept on, “We are now to do our duty to His Grace and this realm to all as one and acknowledge the Prince as heir to the throne and proclaim fealty for now and evermore...”

“Pray a moment, Your Eminence...” the elderly Lord Cromwell interrupted from the crowd, “...yet where be His Grace the King? Should he not also be to here with us?”

“His Grace is...taken ill...” Kempe tried to answer delicately, “...yet would see us follow through with our charge...”

Henry Percy, the Earl of Northumberland spoke out in question, “Taken ill? This is the first to our hearing of such. What be his trouble?”

“He is to Windsor at the now,” the Duke of Buckingham answered for the Archbishop, “A mild ague that he would wish not to plague the rest of us.”

Richard of York had done well at playing the diplomat in his short time mingling with these Lords many of which had sided with the King during his last foray into national politics but they now began to listen more heartily as the tales grew more disturbing. His booming voice could be heard above all, “That is not what comes to my ears, Your Eminence. Nor to the ears of these other men.”

“I am newly here, my Lord of York,” Baron Rivers spoke out and was respected by many having married the widow of John, Duke of Bedford, “Little or less has come to my ears since I have arrived. What mean you?”

Warwick answered him, “He means that His Grace is to a stupor, sir!”

Several magnates called out in shouts and left the Archbishop to hold up his hands to quiet them, “My Lords! A decorum, if you please!”

“Is this true?” Baron Scrope of Masham questioned with incredulity.

Baron Scales followed, “Why have we not been informed of this until now?”

“There was little reason,” the Duke of Somerset stood out front, “His Grace will recover imminently and so resume his governance.”

“Resume his governance?” York asked loudly, “Do you presume to speak to us that he does not govern at the now?”

The Archbishop again tried to calm them, “That is not the purpose of this council, my Lords. We are here to acknowledge the Prince and...”

“Has the King acknowledged the Prince?” the Earl of Salisbury questioned.

Many agreed with the question and asked the same. The Duke of Buckingham stepped forward, “It has been efforted and His Grace does not deny the paternity.”

“Yet does he agree to the paternity?” Warwick again shouted out.

The Duke of Somerset took offense, “That is not at question, sir!”

“Does he agree to anything at all, my Lord?” the Duke of Exeter asked and again more followed with their own queries. Henry Holland continued, “To my hearing, His Grace is silent and speaks of no thing...positive or negative.”

The Archbishop shot him a glare, “His Grace is indeed quiet. At rest. As he should be for his convalescence.”

“Yet does he see the child?” York pursued.

“He has placed eyes to him,” Somerset answered him.

“And did he bless the child?” Salisbury questioned.

The Duke of Buckingham tried to respond, “His Grace has not the strength at this moment...”

This did not go over well with any of them save the prime court party members and even Baron Clifford spoke out, “This is more than unusual, my Lords!”

“Indeed it is,” York followed him, “For if the King may not recognize this Prince, then how may we do so?”

Somerset stood tall, “I believe that you play at your own, my Lord of York. It would be all too convenient for you if an heir is not proclaimed this day for you would wish it to yourself.”

“And you do not?” Richard did not hold back, “Every part of this creates a stench to my nostrils such that I cannot smell at all.”

“Brother...” Salisbury stood next to him and quietly attempted to calm but Warwick called out.

“How may we even know if the child is of the King?” he questioned, “If he is to such a state, can it even be possible?”

Archbishop Kempe screwed his face into a frown, “My Lord!! Do you dare impugn the honor of Her Grace the Queen?!”

“How may I know?” Warwick continued and turned to the crowd, “How may we all know? If His Grace is unable or unwilling, then who is it that has caused this issue? We are all well aware of the piety of the King and his views on marital congress, yet can we know that of the Queen?”

As more grousing was heard from the assembled Lords, the Duke of Buckingham called to him, “What do you suggest, sir?!”

“Far be it from me to caste aspersion, my Lords...” Warwick showed a wounded face, “...yet it is well known to many that the King and the Queen hold a differing view. I should not wish to slander the Queen, yet I see not how such may have happened if His Grace be in such a state. Rather this child may well be offspring of adultery or some other fraud.”

Somerset was raging mad now, “You speak no other words but slander, sir!!”

“Do I?” Warwick pressed his way to the front of the crowd, “The King has not acknowledged the babe and as I am hearing, he may never do so! Therefore is must not be his own. Or it be bastard, which is hard to fathom.”

Sensing a great commotion, the Archbishop called down from the pulpit, “You both go too far, my Lords! You mar this glorious occasion!”

“Mayhap a changeling then,” Warwick was not finished, “Smuggled to the bed after the true child perished. It may be any number of items but before we swear...so must His Grace. Do you not think?”

“You speak false words and innuendo, sir!” Somerset stepped to him and held to the sword at his side, “If you should wish a true hearing, then I should give it to you!”

“My Lords!” Richard of York shouted as he too joined to the front, “Let us not grow to anger. Now is not the time. I among all of you would know the perils of too rash decision. We hold a right question here and thus must find right answer. I would not doubt the honesty but it must be confirmed.”

Salisbury answered to them all, “I would agree with our Lord of York, my Lords. He among any other is most invested in this truth. We hear many things this day and I believe our goal should be to find it.”

“When your own son spouts untruth?!” Somerset questioned in anger.

By now, the crowd was no longer with him and they shouted to a man, “To the King!”

“Indeed...to the King,” Richard looked up to the pulpit, “Do you not think, Your Eminence?”

With a heavy sigh, Archbishop Kempe offered a tepid nod, “Very well. We shall hold a delegation of Lords spiritual and temporal to visit His Grace and attempt...once more.”

“That is all we ask,” Salisbury gave nod to all around and he was duly encouraged by those surrounding him.

His son Warwick followed, “And by doing so...put an end to these tricky questions.”

More agreed and the Archbishop could only give nod. He said a prayer and crossed himself before leaving the pulpit. As the crowd of magnates dispersed, he found Buckingham at the first and the Duke was not pleased, “That...was a disaster.”

“An understatement, my Lord,” Kempe pulled him aside, “The Queen is to be churched on the morrow and once she reenters the fray...”

Buckingham gave nod, “I will speak to York. He managed a peace this day.”

“Such a peace,” Kempe shook his head, “I believe him to hold a bulldog now in Warwick.”

“Keep your faith, sir...we are not yet done.”

The Archbishop showed a pained face, “Alas...I think us only to begin.”

 

[HistoryDude]

And the paternity is placed in question...

 

[Historywhiz]

And so the great secret to making York look rational and cool-headed is discovered - have Warwick beat him to the rage!

 

[TheButterflyComposer]

And so the great secret to making York look rational and cool-headed is discovered - have Warwick beat him to the rage!

The ideal. Have your bulldog be the angry one. You can leash him back and look good doing it, whilst getting everyone hearing what you would have wanted to say.

Well, if a huge crowd of Lords are already doubting the legitimate heir...before they've even seen the King in his sickbed...I doubt seeing the comatose king and his horrible wife will convince anyone.

Especially when everyone puts two and two together and sees Somerset being the most determined defender of the child...

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

And the paternity is placed in question...

It of course would be regardless of the actual veracity of that issue. That the King is seemingly unable to acknowledge, that raises a whole new level of question.

And so the great secret to making York look rational and cool-headed is discovered - have Warwick beat him to the rage!

Quite true. Every great leader requires an attack dog to bear the brunt of criticism so the leader can show himself/herself above it all. That is a thing Richard had not yet grasped when last he attempted any such thing. He may have now done so.

The ideal. Have your bulldog be the angry one. You can leash him back and look good doing it, whilst getting everyone hearing what you would have wanted to say.

Exactly.

Well, if a huge crowd of Lords are already doubting the legitimate heir...before they've even seen the King in his sickbed...I doubt seeing the comatose king and his horrible wife will convince anyone.

Especially when everyone puts two and two together and sees Somerset being the most determined defender of the child...

I don't think this is wrong, but do not underestimate the power of the status quo. And the possibilities available while the monarch is "unavailable." Richard is still relatively untrusted at this date, especially after what he did recently. He has a lot more work to do to bring others to his side. It's a bit like steering a ship away from the iceberg. It takes more than a second.

 

[coz1]

Westminster, November 1453​

The ceremony this day was as auspicious as the one that had preceded it the day before. Only this time, the members were female to witness the churching and blessing of the new mother, Queen Margaret. And as much as the male members of that council held a variety of factions and rivals, this one was little different. In total, there were six Duchesses, nine countesses and seven baronesses. Pride of place on these types of occasions was of course given to Jacquetta of Luxembourg for she remained with the title the Duchess of Bedford after her husband John Duke of Bedford had died in 1435. She was considered still part of the King’s family as his aunt and had inherited a third of her former husband’s estates.

Though she was stately in her bearing, there were few that cared to associate with her for she was considered shameful due to her second marriage. Barely two years after the Duke perished, she married the son of his chamberlain Sir Richard Woodville. Also named Sir Richard, they had married in secret and had angered both the King and his Council at the time. It had actually been Margaret that eventually took pity upon her and convinced Henry to forgive her and bestow upon her husband the title of Baron Rivers. Yet as much as she may have held place within the royal court and family, she remained aloof from it and only ever traveled for these important occasions.

As she stood in the cloister of the Abbey looking upon the tomb of Geoffrey Chaucer, she was called upon by the Duchess of Suffolk, Alice Chaucer, “My grandfather rests peacefully.”

“Does he?” Jacquetta asked without looking to her, “More peaceful than your husband?”

Duchess Alice frowned, “You are wicked, Lady! Like to be a witch from your words.”

She turned slightly and wiggled her fingers with a grin, “Put a spell to you then.”

Alice Chaucer huffed and stormed into the main Abbey leaving her alone once more. She was again interrupted when another voice suggested, “It is difficult to be a widow, I think.”

“It is better to remarry,” Jacquetta replied and offered a slim smile to the Duchess of York and her daughter Anne.

Cecily returned the slim smile, “Indeed, madam. I hope to never be so lucky.”

“And why would you?” the Duchess of Bedford gave nod, “For your husband is very virile and...outspoken. Surely he will last for years and years. Yet who is this bright thing?”

Young Anne of York gave bow of her head, “Duchess of Exeter, my Lady.”

“My two eldest see their first time to court,” Cecily followed, “You may remember it being awe inspiring.”

“I spent most of my time to France when John was alive,” Jacquetta answered as she looked to the girl with a wider smile, “But you are very pretty. You look to be the age of my daughter Elizabeth.”

Cecily replied curtly, “She is fourteen.”

“My goodness...and already waiting upon the Queen,” Jacquetta winked at Anne, “Well you shall see a fine play today.”

“Thank you, my Lady,” Anne dipped her head again.

Cecily looked away for a moment before turning back, “Where be the others? Are we the last to join?”

“Hmm,” Jacquetta looked over Cecily’s shoulder, “The Beauchamp sisters already bicker. Whomever held the idea that they should share a room together knows them not...nor their husbands. Norfolk’s wife Eleanor Bourchier sits meekly waiting. I’ve not yet put eyes to the Duchess of Buckingham yet. Mayhap she remains with the Queen as she prepares.”

“That may be so,” Cecily grinned, “As I understand she stood as sponsor for the young Prince’s baptism. Passing strange that, as I would have thought it might have been the Duchess of Somerset. Her husband is the Queen’s favorite after all.”

“Oh...tell me not that you are so tedious, dear,” Jacquetta rolled her eyes, “What care have we for these rumors and what not? Or is it that you have been away from court and wish the gossip, is that it? Ludlow is so very far away?”

“Mother?” Anne looked to Cecily with confusion.

Cecily snapped at her, “Go into the Abbey and wait with the others.”

As the young Duchess gave nod to them both and did as told, Cecily turned back to Jacquetta with a steely glare, “Madam, I should disabuse you of a notion if you hold such. You may hold your place to here, but circumstances do change. Look to Lady Alice who only finds an invite when pride is concerning and trappings required. I am told that her son finds his marriage dissolved and the King has stripped the court of all Suffolk influence...”

“Only to replace it with Somerset,” Jacquetta interrupted her, “One lover to another...is that what you wish to get at?”

Cecily stood taller, “I believe that all wish to get at the truth.”

“You will find that wanting in these parts, my Lady,” the Duchess of Bedford suggested, “There is reason that I hold to my own and take little part.”

“So you do not find any question at all? None about the King and this...illness?” Cecily asked her with a wider eye.

Jacquetta answered plainly, “I’ve not seen my nephew in some time. Certainly not since I have been returned to court just now. I know as much as you. My husband tells me there is to be a visit by some few Lords to Windsor to see him. That is all that I know.”

“I understand that to be the case as well,” Cecily sighed.

“So if you wish to tease from me more for your Lord husband’s sake...” Jacquetta explained, “...I am afraid that I hold nothing to offer you.”

Duchess Cecily switched quickly to a smile and straightened her dress, “You are looking well, my Lady. I do believe that your new life does suit you.”

“And you...as ever...present the most on any occasion, Lady Cecily,” Jacquetta grinned in return, “I should never wish to see you as anything other. Now...shall we go in?”

Both Duchesses gave nod and entered into the Abbey as the Abbot prepared the ceremony. Duchess Jacquetta took her place near the front and Cecily joined her daughter who had been speaking with Warwick’s wife of the same name. Music began to play and the doors were opened to invite the Queen.

Margaret of Anjou entered wearing a robe trimmed with many sables and slowly moved to greet the Abbot. She knelt to the alter and he began his duties. It was a short service dictated by Margaret who was clearly determined to return to life outside of confinement. The child was brought forth and the Abbot offered him the sign of the cross and then turned to them all.

“God, we praise Thee for Thy great mercy shown to this mother and her child, and humbly beseech Thee to keep them always in Thy gracious care. Hear, O Lord, the supplications of the mother, take her into Thy fatherly protection, and compass her with Thy favor as with a shield. Dispose and enable the parents to give their child a Christian training, that so it may grow up to Thine honor and the joy of all true believers. Amen.”

All of the women present repeated, “Amen.”

 

[coz1]

Windsor, January 1454​

The party of Lords each entered Henry’s chamber within the Rose Tower along with Queen Margaret and the baby Prince Edward. While Buckingham, Somerset and the Archbishop had already seen him in this way, the others had not and they were shocked at his appearance. Particularly disturbed were the King’s brothers Edmund and Jasper.

“Sire...what has become of you?!” Edmund, Earl of Richard asked in shock.

Jasper, Earl of Pembroke investigated the King’s face and absentmindedly copied it with his own, “You look to be in great distress, sire!”

To neither of them did Henry react. He merely looked ahead to the stone wall with his head cocked to the side and drool falling from the corner of his mouth. The physician Arundel calmly cleaned it away with a cloth, “His Grace does not suffer in any pain that we can tell. He holds to his silence but does not thrash and allows us to move him at will.”

The Duke of York and the Earl of Salisbury held back and Richard squinted his eyes to narrow slits. Instead, the Bishop of Winchester looked to the King and spoke with question, “Is it possible that His Grace has been overtaken by evil spirits, my Lords? That his royal mind has been possessed by devils?”

“Think not of exorcism, if that be to your mind, my Lord Bishop,” Margaret answered with a short temper, “My husband is exhausted as can be plainly seen. All of you...some more than others...have caused such a weariness that he requires no thing but a rest.”

Edmund Tudor looked to her with some shock, “My Lady Queen...this be more than exhaustion. That is clear to anyone with eyes. My brother suffers a disease that goes far beyond that!”

Jasper moved to the King and knelt by his chair looking into his eyes with longing, “Henry...brother...can you hear me?”

The King almost seemed to respond as his head moved but Henry’s eyes did not focus to his younger brother. Instead, they briefly lit upon the Duke of York before he looked back to the wall. Richard had finally seen enough, “This is a farce and more! My Lord of Buckingham...Lord Chancellor...how long has this been the case where the King is not of his mind?!”

The Archbishop stood close to Henry with authority, “It has not grown worse.”

“He will be renewed, we are sure of it,” Somerset followed.

“Well, that may not...” the physician Arundel tried to manage expectations but was cut off when Richard strode forth.

“How long, sirs?!”

The Duke of Buckingham lowered his head and answered quietly, “Autumn, my Lord. Near the start to winter.”

“You jest with us?” Jasper Tudor stood with anger and looked to the Duke, “He be my natural brother and this is the first I am to see him in such state?!”

“Indeed,” the Bishop of Ely looked to them all, “Whose choice was this?”

Somerset stood in front of the Queen, “It was a choice of timing and no other. Her Grace was to confinement and all eyes were to the royal birth. It was assumed that His Grace would find recovery...”

“And yet here we are, my Lord,” the Earl of Salisbury suggested from the back, “If it be true...now some few months from the start.”

“He was merely tired before it took hold,” Buckingham allowed, “In need of rest due to exhaustion. That is what we have all considered.”

York countered, “And now that story has played out, sir. This is no simple rest and you well know it. For as long as it lasts...if it lasts...we are ungoverned. This cannot stand...especially with this child here freshly born.”

“I must agree with the Lord of York, sirs,” Richmond gave nod, “If the King be truly incapacitated, then we must look to a regency.”

The Archbishop held up his hands, “That is subject to another day, my Lords. We are here for a purpose.”

“Quite true,” Buckingham replied as he took the Prince into his arms, “And even if so, it should be short lived. See here, Your Grace? Look goodly to your son and bless him.”

Henry did not move nor look to the child. Buckingham pressed again as he lowered his body and placed little Edward in his sight line, “An heir, Your Grace. So devoutly wished. Bless this Prince and so may bring you from this torpor.”

A slight flicker in Henry’s eye showed and he looked briefly before once more turning his head down.

“Henry!” Margaret pushed past Somerset and took her son into her own arms and knelt before her husband, “Look to Edward! Now! Show your love for him as all may see! Bless our child! Please!”

When the King made no reaction, all were left stunned. Richard of York most of all. He stood as tall as he might and looked to each, “That appears to be the sum of it, my Lords.”

Margaret felt tears stream down her face and she stood to the Duke with a fierce eye, “You will not find your place! Not now! Not ever! This child here is heir and no matter how hard you try, you will never be able to take that away from him!!”

She rushed from the chamber with Somerset and the Archbishop following her. Buckingham held by the door and questioned, “You have all held your moment. Now what think you?”

“It is too troublesome to consider,” the Bishop of Winchester crossed himself.

Salisbury followed him, “And yet consider it we must.”

“The other Lords will not be pleased,” Richmond suggested.

Jasper gave nod as he looked back to Henry with a sad eye, “My brother speaks a truth.”

“Yet we must at the least go back to the others and let them know of our findings,” the Bishop of Ely looked to them all, “This may be no secret and it must be understood.”

All but Buckingham gave full agreement and bowed to the silent King before leaving with Richard of York looking to him still. The Duke stepped closer and bent to a knee before his cousin with a curious eye. Buckingham stood over him, “He will not answer you, sir. You may see that now.”

Richard ignored him, “Henry...I am here. Do you see me at the least?”

The King made motion of his head but simply looked to the ceiling. Richard reached out and pulled Henry’s head to him, “Cousin...look into my eyes and let me know that you see.”

Henry made no effort to resist the movement but could not bring himself to focus. Richard shook harder, “Your Grace!!”

With another slight flicker of his eyes, Henry did focus briefly and his cheek twitched but in the end, his head merely lobbed to the side again once Richard let it go. Buckingham sadly followed, “I told you.”

“I need not tell you how grave this is, Stafford,” Richard stood to him with great seriousness.

“No...you do not,” Buckingham shook his head in agreement.

Richard pressed a finger to the Duke’s chest, “Then you realize that this cannot stand. It has gone on long enough and now is the time to make it correct.”

“I will tell you now, my Lord...” Buckingham made no movement as he looked to the finger, “...The Queen will resist. As will Somerset. And if you might...kindly remove your hand, sir.”

York leaned in closer, “They will of course press. Will you?”

“I hold for the crown...as I have always said,” Buckingham returned the strong glare and spoke slowly, “I will do all that I might to protect the King. So the question is...sir...will you?”

Richard retreated and looked back to King Henry with a heavy sigh, “I hold no other choice.”

 

[Historywhiz]

Well if Richard wanted to score serious points with all the nobles of the realm outside his core base, he’d decline the regency when offered on the grounds of being too polarizing a candidate, and instead put forward Edmund Tudor as regent on the grounds that as the king’s brother but not in the immediate line of succession, he can be trusted to care for Henry until he makes a recovery, and is more politically neutral. That is the smart thing to do if you are trying to drum up support for kicking baby Edward out of the line of succession and putting yourself forward as heir.

But he’s not going to do that, because he’s Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York and staunch follower of the “ready, fire, aim” strategy of politics.

 

[TheButterflyComposer]

Well if Richard wanted to score serious points with all the nobles of the realm outside his core base, he’d decline the regency when offered on the grounds of being too polarizing a candidate, and instead put forward Edmund Tudor as regent on the grounds that as the king’s brother but not in the immediate line of succession, he can be trusted to care for Henry until he makes a recovery, and is more politically neutral. That is the smart thing to do if you are trying to drum up support for kicking baby Edward out of the line of succession and putting yourself forward as heir.

But he’s not going to do that, because he’s Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York and staunch follower of the “ready, fire, aim” strategy of politics.

That's what I was thinking he would do, but you may be right. Really though, he should be alright so long as he doesn't look like he's usurping the throne. Almost everyone would rather stick with the king's relatives over a queen regency, and the Queen loyalist faction know they don't have a leg to stand on (being that the Queen is rubbish and disliked, and the 'heir' is a bastard son of Somerset).

Hopefully, York backs Tudor, Tudor gets enough weird vibes from the room that the legitimacy is put into question again, and the Queen or the Duke cock up at some point and reveal enough to hang them.

 

[Bullfilter]

Just to let you know, I keep trying to catch up (marked by the ‘likes’), but can’t ever quite keep pace. So while I may not be commenting along the way atm, I am still reading and enjoying.

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

Well if Richard wanted to score serious points with all the nobles of the realm outside his core base, he’d decline the regency when offered on the grounds of being too polarizing a candidate, and instead put forward Edmund Tudor as regent on the grounds that as the king’s brother but not in the immediate line of succession, he can be trusted to care for Henry until he makes a recovery, and is more politically neutral. That is the smart thing to do if you are trying to drum up support for kicking baby Edward out of the line of succession and putting yourself forward as heir.

But he’s not going to do that, because he’s Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York and staunch follower of the “ready, fire, aim” strategy of politics.

That is an interesting scenario as Edmund Tudor would have no claim to the throne himself and thus could be perhaps trusted to not be nefarious (however, he is quite young for such a role at only 23/24.) But I think that your ultimate thought on that is correct. Richard is simply too proud to allow for that. Not with his own pedigree. Having said that, I can say that he courts Tudor support at this time as will be seen coming up, as well that of others.

That's what I was thinking he would do, but you may be right. Really though, he should be alright so long as he doesn't look like he's usurping the throne. Almost everyone would rather stick with the king's relatives over a queen regency, and the Queen loyalist faction know they don't have a leg to stand on (being that the Queen is rubbish and disliked, and the 'heir' is a bastard son of Somerset).

Hopefully, York backs Tudor, Tudor gets enough weird vibes from the room that the legitimacy is put into question again, and the Queen or the Duke cock up at some point and reveal enough to hang them.

That is the trick for Richard. He must look like he is merely supportive of the King and not anything further than that. He will be accused of it of course by the Queen and Somerset, but they are not quite in favor right now. Or at least, will not be once you see what happens next.

Just to let you know, I keep trying to catch up (marked by the ‘likes’), but can’t ever quite keep pace. So while I may not be commenting along the way atm, I am still reading and enjoying.

Sincerest apologies @Bullfilter for working so quickly. I hope it is at least helpful that my updates tend to be short. I am thinking that I may slow down a bit once this chapter is done as I'm struggling somewhat with the one that follows. If the writing is slowing down, so too will the update speed. That said, thank you for continuing to read and I look forward to when you get fully caught up so you can comment in real time. Yours are always cherished.

 

[Bullfilter]

Sincerest apologies @Bullfilter for working so quickly.

No apology sought even by the faintest implication and certainly not required! It’s more the amount of AARs I read and write, plus a small matter of some busy RL stuff I’ve just taken on in the last few weeks, plus breaking in a new computer. There are some AARs I follow closely that I haven’t done justice to for weeks, which I’m feeling guilty about falling behind on. These are all self-inflicted ’problems’. I’ll get there, my friend.

 

[HistoryDude]

It seems as if the legitimacy is placed even more in question... and there's court gossip amongst the ladies-in-waiting. The Queen is definitely out of favor.

Wait, was the child conceived before the King had leave of his senses? He was, right? Because, if he wasn't... really obvious that he's illegitimate.

 

[coz1]

More fb-fb:

No apology sought even by the faintest implication and certainly not required! It’s more the amount of AARs I read and write, plus a small matter of some busy RL stuff I’ve just taken on in the last few weeks, plus breaking in a new computer. There are some AARs I follow closely that I haven’t done justice to for weeks, which I’m feeling guilty about falling behind on. These are all self-inflicted ’problems’. I’ll get there, my friend.

All too aware of RL and other commitments so it is a true honor that you still try to keep pace. Others have not and I cannot blame them.

It seems as if the legitimacy is placed even more in question... and there's court gossip amongst the ladies-in-waiting. The Queen is definitely out of favor.

Wait, was the child conceived before the King had leave of his senses? He was, right? Because, if he wasn't... really obvious that he's illegitimate.

Yes, the child was conceived before Henry took ill. But that he is now sick does leave plenty of question to those willing to ask.


To all - As always, thank you very much for reading and giving comment. The next scene follows which will take us to the half way point of the chapter. Chapter 8 is plotted out but I'm working a little more slowly in the writing. Hopefully it picks up soon (though for those of you behind, that may be a blessing. )

 

[coz1]

Westminster, February 1454​

James Butler, the Earl of Wiltshire, hurried along the corridors of the palace to meet with the Duke of Somerset. He was now also Earl of Ormond in Ireland after the recent death of his father, and was one of Somerset’s most trusted lieutenants. Considered one of the most handsome Lords in the kingdom, he was also a favorite of the Queen and this day they had been summoned to her presence for he knew not what. Rounding a corner, he spied the Duke in conference with another and waited for him to move along. Once alone again, he quickly moved into stride and questioned, “What has Her Grace to mind, my Lord?”

“I am sure that I do not know,” Somerset answered as he walked with determination.

The Earl followed quickly, “Has there been no change to Windsor?”

“Not a jot,” the Duke shook his head with disdain, “I think to have had more conversation with my mount this morning than with the King these last few months.”

“Tis a pity, my Lord,” Wiltshire suggested with sadness, “A horrible thing for a man not able to greet his newborn son.”

Somerset stopped for a moment and looked to the Earl with some shock, “That, sir, is the least of our worries. It is certain that York now pulls support to him as it is clear to all that we may no longer carry on as we were. Especially now that the King’s brothers are willing to listen to the Lord. They are grievously worried about the King and the realm and so we must tread lightly.”

“And what of the Queen?” Wiltshire questioned as they approached her chambers.

“As we are now here,” Somerset replied, “We shall soon find out.”

As they entered, they found the Queen hovering over her chevalier servant Pierre de Brézé as he sat to a desk writing down her words. She did not look up as she continued to read back what she had dictated but waved a hand to them. After finishing, she finally turned up her head with a slim smile, “Time is not wasted, my Lords. As action must be taken, I act to do so at the now.”

“What be that, my Lady Queen?” Somerset asked unsure of her intentions but having some idea.

She reached down and held up her papers, “I have prepared a bill of five articles, my Lords. That Parliament is soon to meet, they shall need to take a vote on these measures and ensure the safety of both the realm and the King.”

“My Lady Queen...” Wiltshire spoke up, “...it is highly unusual for bills to come from outside that grouping. They...”

“The King may present them with an article, may he not?” she questioned with arched brows.

The Earl gave a brief nod, “Indeed...yet...”

“So as he is now unable to do so, I shall do it for him,” Margaret showed certainty, “I am the Queen and I am used to ruling and not being ruled, sirs. Nor shall I have my son and the King’s heir being ruled by some other if it be not me. Haste is required, my Lords. No other can be accepted.”

Wiltshire was about to speak again, but the Duke held a hand to him and looked to Margaret, “Madam...may we ask what these articles entail?”

“To be certain,” she answered and stepped to them both, “The first is most important and quite simple. I desire to be called regent for my husband and young son and have the whole rule of this land until either is capable on their own.”

“I believe that has already been broached, my Lady,” Somerset cautioned, “And not received well.”

Margaret stood taller with determination, “By only a few Lords, sir. And none may care for my husband better than I. Only I have his true interests and health to my full mind and heart.”

“It may be difficult for the Council…” Somerset began to suggest another caution and she ignored him.

“To that effect...” Margaret pressed, “...I shall have full ability to make appointment for the Chancellor, the Treasurer, the Privy Seal and all other officers of this land. I would not have others use this time for their own betterment and not that of the King. In only this way shall I safeguard his interests.”

Somerset held his head low for a moment before looking to her once again, “Madam, I believe even the Archbishop may balk at such a request. I have learned that stepping on his toes can be quite painful...and not to him.”

“Are you frightened, sir?” she scoffed, “I should be fearful of a mere prelate?!”

“He is no mere prelate, my Lady Queen,” Wiltshire suggested, “He is the Archbishop of Canterbury and Lord Chancellor for His Grace the King. He leads Council at the now in absence of the King and his powers of persuasion are most crucial.”

Margaret smiled to him, “To that end, sir, the third article is that I may give all the bishoprics of this land and all other benefices belonging to the King’s gift. Allow him to try and corral against me if I may prove kind and grateful to his flock.”

“He will most certainly try, madam,” Somerset suggested with seriousness.

“Very well...” she kept her smile and looked to him, “...he is old and will not last forever. Further, mayhap some begin to chafe under his considerable weight.”

Somerset and Wiltshire shared a look before the latter turned back to the Queen, “The fourth article, my Lady Queen?”

“I must have sufficient livelode assigned to myself for the King, the Prince and my future as I care for all of these items,” she replied with certainty, “I may not hold regency as a pauper, sirs, and the King’s care most especially should be seen after in all goodly ways.”

“I am certain that this should be the easiest to pass, my Lady Queen,” the Earl gave firm nod, “No man to this land would wish the King to starve in his state...nor you, my Lady.”

“That is most true,” Somerset followed.

Margaret held forth the papers with a further smile, “I will make most certain of that in this fifth article. All items must be agreed to together and once passed there shall be no amendment. It will be inviolable and even if the King should pass, these rights extend to my son the Prince. We do not go at half measures here, my Lords. We shall have the whole hog or the realm will suffer for it.”

“Madam...my Lady Queen...” Somerset again cautioned, “...it will be most difficult to get these articles passed as one. They will all require debate and while some may be considered reasonable, others may not. And you well know parties that will argue against each with every bit of their breath...”

Margaret slammed the papers to the desk causing Pierre to flinch as she steamed, “I am well aware that York will do his utmost and damnedest to thwart my every move...yet I also know that many magnates continue to hesitate. They are reluctant to associate themselves with this Lord after his previous behavior and are loathe to present any action that may be considered likewise treasonous. Any and all enemies of this Duke must be cultivated as much as possible if we are to exercise royal prerogative.”

“That will not be difficult to do in theory, my Lady Queen,” Wiltshire tried to answer delicately, “Yet...the whole sum of these articles will not make that easier.”

“Then you must try harder,” Margaret looked to him with a stern eye.

Somerset stepped forward, “Madam...do you not think it better that mayhap I...instead of you...present for a regency?”

“Preposterous!” she exclaimed unable to consider such an idea, “Why on earth would you be the desired candidate? Are you married to the King? Have you been considered sovereign ruler? Why would you be considered to safeguard the heir? Do you think that these Lords would trust you more than I?”

The Earl suggested softly, “As well, my Lord...the...rumors.”

“Speak that again to my presence, my Lord, and you will speak no more!” Margaret shouted to them both, “There is a pressure to this realm and there are only two candidates for this position. None other! You may take your faith with the Duke of York and see where that finds you. I know where that will find my husband and my son. He would not wait a second to remove my pretty head! Or you will hold for the one that does love my husband and you more than any other. Take your choice, my Lords! What will it be?!”

The two Lords looked to one another and then gave bow to the Queen. Somerset spoke as he left the chamber, “We shall do all that we might to safeguard all that you wish.”

Margaret turned from them and admonished, “It shall not be easy, sir, so you had better have a backbone!”

 

[HistoryDude]

Yeah, Margaret's pushing too hard. Some of that looks like a coup.

Also, it steps on Parliament's toes, which will make her many enemies.

 

[Historywhiz]

Margaret has read How to Make Friends and Influence People, it seems; no one could so thoroughly repudiate a work without being at least somewhat familiar with it.

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

Yeah, Margaret's pushing too hard. Some of that looks like a coup.

Also, it steps on Parliament's toes, which will make her many enemies.

Very, very true. On both counts.

Margaret has read How to Make Friends and Influence People, it seems; no one could so thoroughly repudiate a work without being at least somewhat familiar with it.

I believe that To Maketh Companions and Influenceth All was Chaucer's first work before The Canterbury Tales. As suggested, Margaret did not care for it.


To all - I missed my update day yesterday due to a long and arduous day at work that left me rather run down. Still feeling it, but can go ahead and offer up the next scene since it was written some many days ago. Thanks again for reading and giving comment!

 

[coz1]

Baynard’s Castle, February 1454​

The Earl of Warwick stood in the twilight looking to the river. Soft strokes of oars could be heard as the boat approached and once it reached the steps, men at the bow threw ropes to pull near. Once secured, the older man at the aft stepped carefully and gingerly exited to the steps leading up from the Thames. Warwick was quick to greet him, “My Lord of Oxford...we are very pleased to see you this eve.”

John de Vere offered a soft bow of the head and a pleasant countenance, “I’ve only just arrived to London and was intrigued by the Lord of York’s invitation. I should be rather rude to dismiss it.”

“You could never be rude, my Lord,” Warwick gestured to the castle rising above them, “You may also be pleased...you are not the only guest.”

Oxford raised a brow, “Truly? Who else?”

“The Earl of Richmond, my Lord...the King’s brother.”

de Vere was even more intrigued, “Then let us not allow them to wait. Lead on, sir.”

The Earl of Oxford was twice the age of the Earl of Warwick so Richard Neville cautioned his steps to allow the older Lord his timing. Once to the castle proper, Warwick led him to the hall and found York in talks with Richmond and Duchess Cecily.

“Wales is indeed a beautiful land, my Lord,” Cecily was saying, “I know that we do enjoy our time to Ludlow where it is so close. And how does your father these days?”

Edmund Tudor grinned, “He is rather cross these days, my Lady. His age does not agree with him.”

“Yet he must be very proud of you and your brother Jasper,” she suggested.

He bowed, “Indeed he is, madam. And thank you.”

“Ahh...” she spied the newly entered Earls, “...yet who do we have here? Is that you, Johnny?”

“My very gracious Lady,” Oxford afforded her a flourished bow, “You are ever like the sun that breaks through the darkest clouds on a dreary day. Tis my pleasure to spy your beauty once again.”

Cecily turned and gestured for her eldest son, “Edward...come to here. Come to greet the hero of Calais when we were at siege by the Burgundians so many years ago. He fought alongside your father to France. A man of many means and respected by all.”

Young Edward did as suggested and offered bow, “My Lord father is surely honored by your presence, sir. I hold my mother’s words dear and so you are surely very brave.”

“Dearest Cecily is most boastful,” Oxford smiled, “And you are quite proper, my Lord. We are well met to greet one such as yourself so very ready for their role. You do your parents proud.”

“He had better,” York showed authority, “Now, Ned...I think it time you return to your studies. You are to observe Parliament soon and I shall have you understand all that is said.”

“Yet I would rather stay, father...” Edward gave plea, “...for I think this far more interesting.”

Cecily showed her son a firm eye, “Do as said, sir. They will likely talk far into the night and you hold other duties at the now.”

Edward finally relented and gave them all bow before retreating to his rooms and Cecily smiled, “He is head strong, sirs. Thinks that he is ready for the rough and tumble.”

“And he will be,” York moved to a table to pour drinks for them all, “Yet not tonight. My Lords, please take a seat by the hearth for there are indeed many words to hear.”

“I shall fetch you some nourishment,” Cecily also bowed before leaving, “Great talks often create a hungry belly.”

York returned with wine for each of them after she left, “She fears that we may drink too much, sirs.”

“Never you, my Lord,” Warwick offered a jest.

York did not respond as he too sat and looked to them each, “At the first I must say to you all a great thanks for this meeting. We are at a precipice as we now know, and likely to fall quite far if we do not hold at the edge. I know each of you in our fashion. Our Lord of Warwick is family and I have known you, my Lord of Oxford for some many years. A good man to the Council, if only one of the few, and a man to be trusted. And I am most pleased that you may join us, my Lord of Richmond. Your close affinity to the King causes you what I am sure we all hope for...a recovery and what is more, a way to that recovery.”

“If I may say...” Edmund Tudor looked to each but especially to York, “...that I am honored to be included. I am indeed quite worried about the King and what goes on to here. As is my brother. If we may find path forward, I should like it very much and would be proud to help that along.”

The Earl of Oxford gave nod of his head after drinking to his wine, “As well you should be included and honored, sir. Though...I must ask of you, my Lord of York...why myself instead of the Duke of Buckingham? I had thought you to have his ear. While I am to Council, I am not much heard among the louder voices.”

“I have developed a...relationship...with Buckingham,” York agreed, “Yet his inclination is to follow the wind. Whichever way it goes, he is much like a sail.”

“And more, my Lords...” Warwick spoke up, “...neither Buckingham nor the Archbishop find their hands clean it would seem to me. Though trusted by many, the manner in which this episode has found us remains more than distasteful.”

Richmond nodded, “I may speak to that. Mine own brother...and I find out months later?”

“While I would wish not to belabor the point too much...” York sat his wine aside to look to them all, “...there be no doubt why and the who that have caused such. Tis not Stafford...nor Kempe. I think we all know it to be Somerset and the Queen.”

“Lord Richard, I would caution you,” Oxford spoke up, “I wish not to deal with innuendo and gossip. We are here to discuss matters of state and what can be proven.”

Warwick, the chief instigator, did not try, “It is not a matter of demonstrability, my Lord. Rather it is that we know of their plan.”

“Plan?” Tudor questioned.

“Indeed, sir,” York offered a rare smile, “Neville...if you would enlighten them.”

Warwick produced a parchment from his coat and passed it around, “This is copy of an article that I have recently discovered through an agent of mine. In it, it clearly states that the Queen expects...nay demands to be named Regent in place of King Henry. She would take on all duties and roles of sovereign as if she were King herself and more, hold it to perpetuity as long as her...son...remains a minority.”

“A petticoat government?” Oxford scoffed with a laugh as Richmond read over the parchment, “Surely she cannot be serious? At the very least it is improper and to many it may even seem repugnant.”

York pointed, “And yet the words are all there, my Lord.”

“They are indeed,” Richmond looked up with even more worry as he passed the paper to the Earl of Oxford, “I must say...I know not the Queen well. My brother and I have truly only recently been invited to court and she has been...absent for much of it. Yet I do hear that she is unpopular...at least to the people.”

“She plays at her popularity,” York suggested, “Alms...benefices...what have you. Yet above all, sir...she is French. And at this time.”

“Yet we did just find victory there,” Oxford mentioned as he continued to read.

Warwick answered, “Little victory, my Lord. Much more could have been seen. It is said that it was she that pressed for an early peace when we might have gone to Normandy again.”

“I would agree...it was hasty,” Oxford looked up to answer him and then back down to read.

Edmund Tudor stood to the hearth, “Yet...she is his wife. Surely she would have his betterment in mind like few other. And certainly that of her son.”

“You are young, my Lord of Richmond,” York answered from his chair, “Mayhap new to this game. I have known this...girl...since she was not but just that. Haughty is a popular phrase but it does not begin to describe her in full. In the interest of not offending our guest of Oxford here, I shall simply say that merely her past known actions prove if no thing else that she is incapable of ruling as one.”

Oxford was finally finished reading and looked up with a shocked face, “I must say that these words will offend and alienate just by themselves. There can be few that would sign on to such a thing.”

“Which is why your words will matter when Parliament meets,” York stood to meet Richmond by the fire, “The both of you. You are respected. This bill cannot pass. Not any of it.”

Warwick pressed, “More to that, my Lords...London itself is like a tinderbox. Word has reached the streets that the King is out of sorts. They know not what, but if rumor is allowed at all, they do seem to know that he has yet to recognize the babe. It is so tense that I am to understand that the Archbishop himself has armed the men to his Lambeth Palace and told them to ready themselves to safeguard his person.”

“My Lord of Warwick...” Oxford showed him a pursed brow, “...you are not alone in the information gathering business. I have been at this for a long time. And I am told that you sent nearly a thousand armed retainers before you prior to reaching the capital yourself. Are you wishing to avoid a fight...or to cause one?”

York turned to the older Earl, “I make no apology, my Lord. It was to safeguard myself. How could I know what my reception would be in light of these circumstances?”

“I may attend to that as well, my Lord,” Richmond followed, “I and my brother accompanied the Duke and his household...his son and his retainers as we came to town.”

Warwick gave nod, “I should also tell you, my Lord...my spies...your spies...these are not the only at work. Somerset’s own prowl the streets. In the form of sailors on leave or disguised as friars...they enter homes to suss out any or all allegiance to our Lord of York. Somerset himself has sent a large army of retainers and his billeting officer has secured nearly every lodging to Thames street and near to the Tower.”

“Is this how it is done?!” Richard asked naively.

Oxford narrowed his eyes, “My Lord, it is the only way that it is done I am afraid. And I do not mind saying, Richard...you did not help matters with your last foray.”

“Precisely,” Richard of York allowed a nod, “Which is why I call upon you, sir. I am...unliked. Perhaps it out of jealousy or that I am too supercilious...I cannot say. Yet I may not lead anything at all without support. I think to hold Norfolk...mayhap even Exeter such as he is. Buckingham may be swayed. Yet it is the Earls and Barons that will truly tell the tale.”

“Well...surely you hold Salisbury...” Oxford pointed to the Earl’s son, “...and mayhap still Devon?”

York shrugged, “Courteney is still sore at me for placing him in an uncomfortable position.”

“Cobham then?” Oxford questioned.

“Cobham means nothing,” Warwick suggested, “A minor Baron who looks to his own plight. We mean Scales...Clifford...the Scropes...the northern Lords...”

Oxford again pursed his brow, “Which of course you may not sway.”

“No,” York agreed, “He may not. Nor Salisbury though he does try. So we look to you, my Lord. My fine friend.”

“Lord Richard...I have not put eyes to you in a manner of years,” the Earl of Oxford stood and drank down his wine, “Yet I have known of you and know you. You may not be liked but you are respected as you should be. Your last actions give one pause...but this? This is another matter.”

Richmond questioned, “So you will assist? From all that I see here, the King requires it.”

“Yes, my Lord...” Oxford placed down his cup, “...I will. If Salisbury works to the north...and makes peace to the north! Then I shall work to here and will start with Lord Scales, though I like him not. He is still Suffolk’s man even though that Duke is long gone. Yet he is wealthy and powerful. Others will follow him.”

The Duke of York stepped forward and clasped the older Earls’ arm, “Every voice will count, sir. I place my trust in you. I will do my part as we all will do. These are but a start. The smaller men will try but we Lords must do all we might to not just safeguard ourselves. We must safeguard the realm and King Henry.”

“You may start with your brother in law, sir,” Oxford returned the grasp before moving to leave, “Viscount Bourchier likely gives you his brother the Bishop of Ely. May also give you their half brother Buckingham. But Ely would be a fine get for that helps you with the church. As you say, Lord Richard...every voice counts.”

Richard followed after for a step, “You have been a fine help, my Lord.”

“And you...” the Earl of Oxford turned before leaving, “...had better be prepared.”