The Wars of the Roses

[coz1]

Watford, May 1455​

King Henry gave forth a heavy sigh. He was tired. Tired of his cousin’s actions. Tired of the words suggested by his magnates. Tired of his wife, frankly. Simply tired because he was not yet fully recovered and merely wished to slip away to the cloister and pray. Yet he was King and so he could not. He was thirty and four in age and in his reckoning, he had not held one peaceful moment for the entirety of his reign. Would it not have been better, he thought, to have taken to the cloth and served the Lord God instead of these men? At least God Almighty could forgive. These would never do so.

“As I say, Your Grace...” Somerset spoke again when he saw the King looking elsewhere, “...York holds nearly seven thousand to his affinity. And they are well armed. There can be no doubt at the now as to his intentions.”

“Loathe that I am to agree with the Duke of Somerset, Your Grace...” the Duke of Buckingham had to give nod, “...it is now a reckoning. We may no longer assume a peaceful state. Yet...”

Somerset shot him down, “Speak not again of peace, sir! That time is over!”

“I am...undone,” Henry suggested in a defeated tone.

The Archbishop spoke out, “Never, sire! Entreaties have been sent and we await word from the Lord of York. I may assure you...he means not to fight.”

“If I must hear one more word of talks with...this man...” Somerset looked to both the Duke and the Archbishop, “...I will…”

“What?!” Buckingham shouted, “What will you do?!”

Somerset sneered, “I shall not be kind!”

“Do what you desire, my Lord,” Buckingham answered with disdain before turning back to the King, “For my part, Your Grace, I still suggest that your initial instinct was entirely correct. York does come to you and means to bend the knee. I am sure of it. We have seen it before and will do again.”

“You are fools!” Somerset accused them, “Why have we set this army to the march if not to do battle? Your Grace! It did take some time for you to recognize, but it can be no clearer to you or anyone! We must...”

Henry finally sat taller to his chair, “Our judgment may have been cloudy, my Lord...yet we are not content. Though this army is placed to the field, we would still wish to hear the words of our cousin.”

“And it is not forthcoming!” Somerset challenged, “Not a jot of it but his own armed force!”

The Archbishop questioned, “There has been no word, my Lord? Truly? We have all read the manifesto meant for the people and other magnates, but it is entirely unlikely that the Lord of York has not sent personal words to His Grace.”

“Indeed, Your Grace...” Buckingham followed, “...I fear that this Lord and his man Wiltshire may be causing disunion by blocking your messages.”

Somerset stood strong, “You would accuse me?!”

“I do, sir!” Buckingham answered, “Let us to your tent and see if there is letter from York that the King has not read. Do you think that we will find such there?”

“You will find nothing of the sort,” Somerset replied easily and looked again to the King, “And this is no thing but yet another delay, Your Grace. I have said before and repeat it now...there be no answer to this question but force. York brings it to you and you must answer with the same!”

Henry stood uneasily, “I wish not to fight!!!”

“Then talk, Your Grace...” Buckingham again suggested, “...and allow the talk. Send me with word to the Lord of York’s camp and I may promise you...he will listen.”

Somerset again would not hear of it, “At every step of the way, my Lord...when York and Salisbury met with Warwick to the old Roman road...as they approached London...they make it to Hertfordshire with their numbers and yet you would still think them peaceful? They are at Ware at last telling and I think not that they come for a peace conference!”

“No, my Lord...” Buckingham offered, “...I do believe that they come for your head.”

Somerset showed a haughty grin, “They may have it if they can. Your Grace...I would stand with you and your cause. I hold to no other endeavor.”

“That...is good,” Henry answered with another sigh, “So then please leave us and do that.”

“Yet, Your Grace...” Somerset tried to protest.

Henry showed an uncharacteristic strength, “We have said our words, sir! Obey or send your own letter explaining why you have not!”

The Duke could only give bow as he made an exit and Buckingham tried not to show hubris, “For all of his worth, Your Grace...I do believe that he means well.”

“I think to need it, my Lord,” Henry answered with sadness, “As we do the both of you. This has not gone well and we are unsure...does my cousin wish my mind or my crown?”

The Archbishop suggested, “I believe the Lord of York to desire your words, Your Grace. No thing more.”

Henry pointed a finger, “And...mayhap his head.”

“There is truth in that statement, Your Grace,” Buckingham replied, “From the very start...that has been his stated goal. I have worked with him...as has the Archbishop here. He did govern soundly when given chance and even if bloodthirsty, which I do not believe that he is...Somerset still holds his head for all of its worth.”

Henry held a soft voice, “I still...wish to believe him. Our cousin...an honorable man...and strong. And Somerset? I do think that my wife enjoys him more than I. Yet...”

“Your Grace...” the Archbishop attempted to calm, “...I do believe that both men are loyal and true. Though they do detest one another, they remain worthy men to your service. That is all that may be asked.”

The King showed a frown, “You may hold a low bar in confidence.”

“I mean that both would treat you honorably if given chance,” Archbishop Bourchier replied, “Even with their enmity, I do believe that they hold your own worth as paramount.”

“We should like to see the proof of that,” Henry answered forlornly.

The Duke of Buckingham stepped forward, “And I believe that we shall, Your Grace. You have built your defense and what will they do about it? Neither may discount your divine right to rule. Your word is what is paramount. Let them both answer.”

Henry offered another sigh, “If I leave it to them, they would destroy each other. I am inclined...no...we cannot. My Lord of Buckingham...you will lead the army. That is your hereditary position and we see no reason to alter such. We know that you will attend yourself and all of us with great honor.”

“Somerset will balk, Your Grace,” Buckingham suggested.

Henry waved a hand, “Let him. If it comes to it, we know that you will be honorable. I cannot say the same about...him.”

“And I fear that words from York...” the Archbishop followed, “...may not be coming to you as they should. He has surely sent such to you, Your Grace.”

“He may have,” Henry answered with sadness, “They are not to our hands. I like it not, yet...my Lord of Buckingham, you will lead this army to meet with our cousin. Choose your second and array this force as you see fit. We shall follow and hope to find a peaceful resolution. God Almighty help us all.”

 

[filcat]

We shall follow and hope to find a peaceful resolution. God Almighty help us all.

Pheww. Reaching the maximum level of self-unawareness by constantly lying to one's self is a terrifying aspect of human behaviour.

Superb writing. Kudos.


Anyway; finally the post has come, thus have gathered the courage to make another interim-comment, and a slight-necro that will be - sincere apologies for that.

As own re-reading marathon (as said, the 5th - no worries; promised not to do a 6th re-run) continues, and the updates are piling up (never stop writing, mate), some of the points become irresistible to question (have been taking notes - they have clogged up a significant amount of time).

Have been wondering since the first reading, but keeping returning to that point;

Richard gave nod and answered, “She remains but a Queen. Henry remains King.”

how did Margaret enter the flow of the time, or how did she end up getting the short-straw among the characters; was she designed in the story as such by default, or has there been a development-side for her motivation-background prior to this that is missed while reading?

 

[El Pip]

Once again the King is tantalisingly close to the truth, yet cannot make the final step to realising that Somerset and the Queen are in fact the real problem here. And so sadly the country stumbles towards an entirely avoidable war.

I say avoidable because I do believe that Richard would not usurp Henry and is just after the banishment/exile/head of Somerset and the sidling of the Queen, though I admit that it helps that the King's son is illegitimate and so removing him from the line of succession is the 'correct' thing to do, with the bonus of moving Richard back up to being heir. If the son was legitimate then I admit I am a tad less sure. I like to think Richard would stay true to his word, but Cecily is both ambitious and convincing so I cannot say for sure.

or has there been a development-side for her motivation-background prior to this that is missed while reading?

I thought it was pretty clear in the story she was French?

 

[coz1]

Pheww. Reaching the maximum level of self-unawareness by constantly lying to one's self is a terrifying aspect of human behaviour.

Superb writing. Kudos.


Anyway; finally the post has come, thus have gathered the courage to make another interim-comment, and a slight-necro that will be - sincere apologies for that.

As own re-reading marathon (as said, the 5th - no worries; promised not to do a 6th re-run) continues, and the updates are piling up (never stop writing, mate), some of the points become irresistible to question (have been taking notes - they have clogged up a significant amount of time).

Have been wondering since the first reading, but keeping returning to that point;

how did Margaret enter the flow of the time, or how did she end up getting the short-straw among the characters; was she designed in the story as such by default, or has there been a development-side for her motivation-background prior to this that is missed while reading?

First of all, thank you for reading 5 times! It is getting longer by the day.

As to Margaret of Anjou, the Queen...I should hope that my writing has given you and others a sense of her character. More to that, there is a "short-hand" in knowledge of many about her. She is an unforgettable character. And I'm not even to her "best" parts in the writing. She is hated but she was loved by many at the time. To say it quickly, she was the daughter of a man without place anymore even if he still held title. In this story, Rene D'Anjou has reclaimed some sense of place, but I feel no great need to change his circumstances terribly. It works. And helps explains her circumstances.

To be sure, and as I have said before, I do slightly feel sorry for Margaret. A stranger in a strange land. Placed to a position and with a husband (a King) for which she was not terribly able to fulfill the role. I portray her historically because one must. That is her impact. Her character. Others may say, but the way I see her...she is too certain of herself without reason to be why. As others have surmised. She'll have her moments, and I hope that I write her as strong, but ultimately she is her own worst enemy.

To make the case for her? At a very young age this not even princess was married to a King who was not that in great practice. She is not alone in history (not everyone can be Eleanor of Aquitaine) but she was distrusted during this period. Recall that we are not too far from the end of the 100 Years War and the French are the enemy. And yet, she is their Queen. She did try. Did her best to make the people love her. And many of the commoners actually did. But we are not telling a story of the commons, by and large. I don't think that it is too far a stretch to consider Margaret little different from Marie Antoinette. Margaret would be perfectly happy to tell them all "eat cake" while she got what she desired. That is the way that I write her. My consideration of her character is strong in her back but always trying to convince others. That is her lot. What she must do, especially now that she must champion her son.

Does that help? I could talk about this all day, but this is the short version of why she is portrayed as she is. Margaret of Anjou is a fascinating character. If I am writing this story, I must give her agency...for right or wrong. Her motivation? Survival.

Once again the King is tantalisingly close to the truth, yet cannot make the final step to realising that Somerset and the Queen are in fact the real problem here. And so sadly the country stumbles towards an entirely avoidable war.

I say avoidable because I do believe that Richard would not usurp Henry and is just after the banishment/exile/head of Somerset and the sidling of the Queen, though I admit that it helps that the King's son is illegitimate and so removing him from the line of succession is the 'correct' thing to do, with the bonus of moving Richard back up to being heir. If the son was legitimate then I admit I am a tad less sure. I like to think Richard would stay true to his word, but Cecily is both ambitious and convincing so I cannot say for sure.


I thought it was pretty clear in the story she was French?

Hah! Yes. Margaret is most definitely French. As above...that really does matter.

I would wish to put more into the story (though I do try) but I am not strong in my francais (despite five years of study in school.) Our French speakers, I hope, keep me honest when I do.

And your comment, @El Pip is nearly exactly to the point as I see it. In this story, there are really 3 major players. The King, his wife and York. The others that I include are scenery (and what fun scenery!) The crux of the argument...the challenge...is good governance and what is right. There is reason that I make Richard the main character (if that was not clear) because his quandary is the sum of the argument. His place is everything, and as said, the new Prince displaces him. Though he was already trying. I write Richard as honest and true to the crown...the thought of the crown and throne. He would like nothing more but for it to be sound. Yet if it is not? Well...he needs to do something about it. And also...keep his place (and good thought on Cecily there.)

I cannot get into what happens here going forward in this work, but I base this on what happened historically. We have a floor of a very proud nobleman, a weak King and a woman that knows the difference. That, in short, is my story. Where is the ceiling? All would have to read to find out.


Both excellent comments!!

 

[TheButterflyComposer]

I still hope it is inevitable thst the scandal breaks and the Queen and Somerset are revealed. It would solve most of the problems and issues, and leave a few lingering ines to still poke at.

 

[filcat]

This is her impact. Her character.

This does not explain much.

Others may say, but the way I see her...she is too certain of herself without reason to be why.

But this does the job, fitting the narrative (as her first appearance), and releases the stress of trying to figure out the design of the character in terms of the story.

I don't think that it is too far a stretch to consider Margaret little different from Marie Antoinette. Margaret would be perfectly happy to tell them all "eat cake" while she got what she desired.

Now makes sense, and fits own notes for interpretation-comprehension.
Knowing who she was, but have to remind that having nought interest on the history of the islands (or more specifically: Having absolute zero interest for the dynamics of moanrchy-aristocracy-nobility), thus the question was about the character as created in the story, so the world created by your words; and the answer is fully satisfying - cheers mate.

Of course having the curse of "do the job yourself as the reader", therefore feeling uneasy for cheating by asking the question directly to the author; sorry about that.

Does that help? I could talk about this all day, but this is the short version of why she is portrayed as she is. Margaret of Anjou is a fascinating character. If I am writing this story, I must give her agency...for right or wrong. Her motivation? Survival.

Yep, and your writing is fascinating. Write, write more, and all will be read.

 

[filcat]

Sht. Have to clarify self. Sincere apologies for the successive comment-posts.

Of course having the curse of "do the job yourself as the reader", therefore feeling uneasy for cheating by asking the question directly to the author; sorry about that.

Yeah about that "do the job yourself as the reader"; felt to clarify.
Not strictly adhering to that principle up to lunacy-levels of "never asking", that would be idiotic.
Questions are valuable of infinite importance, of course. Just as a question initiating a process for analysis with scientific methodology, a question for inquiring - trying to learn the interpretation of the creator of the work of art is equally important; should have added that.

Always reminding self this great example:

Spoiler: On the ending for 2001: A Space Oddysey

 

[HistoryDude]

Well, the war seems inevitable. Things probably would've been better if Henry was a monk - the succession wouldn't be an issue.

Let's hope that Somerset receives his comeuppance - one way or another.

 

[Historywhiz]

This is a longstanding project that I have had on mind for many years and every time I work on it, I am so excited to get it out there. I'm trying not to post too fast, but I cannot stop the writing when it happens (we've seen some breaks in the muse.) Thus, the next update will arrive in just a moment. Look for the next after that to follow sometime this weekend.

Quite aware of how difficult it is - I’ve actually been working on an Edgar Aelthing CK3 AAR for well over a year now (you actually gave me the idea) and every time I think I come close to understanding, I get a new book or read a new article or watch a new video that has me second-guessing everything.

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

I still hope it is inevitable thst the scandal breaks and the Queen and Somerset are revealed. It would solve most of the problems and issues, and leave a few lingering ines to still poke at.

Indeed, that would solve much. But that would be too neat, wouldn't it?

This does not explain much.


But this does the job, fitting the narrative (as her first appearance), and releases the stress of trying to figure out the design of the character in terms of the story.



Now makes sense, and fits own notes for interpretation-comprehension.
Knowing who she was, but have to remind that having nought interest on the history of the islands (or more specifically: Having absolute zero interest for the dynamics of moanrchy-aristocracy-nobility), thus the question was about the character as created in the story, so the world created by your words; and the answer is fully satisfying - cheers mate.

Of course having the curse of "do the job yourself as the reader", therefore feeling uneasy for cheating by asking the question directly to the author; sorry about that.


Yep, and your writing is fascinating. Write, write more, and all will be read.

Once again, thank you. I never have a problem with a question about the work or characters. Especially if they are not coming across or coming across poorly. With Margaret specifically, I hope to write her fairly if not at times harsh. She can be a difficult subject (in terms if figuring her out.) That said, while I feel at times that my male characters may seem too one note or similar, I rather pride myself in my portrayal of women in my work. Weird as I am not now, nor will I ever be, a woman and my coupling with the fairer sex has yet, of this date, led to marriage. However, I am very familiar with the female psyche as I come from a rather matriarchal family with two very strong grandmothers and three sisters of both differing but equally strong demeanors. Oh yeah...and my mom.

Sht. Have to clarify self. Sincere apologies for the successive comment-posts.


Yeah about that "do the job yourself as the reader"; felt to clarify.
Not strictly adhering to that principle up to lunacy-levels of "never asking", that would be idiotic.
Questions are valuable of infinite importance, of course. Just as a question initiating a process for analysis with scientific methodology, a question for inquiring - trying to learn the interpretation of the creator of the work of art is equally important; should have added that.

Always reminding self this great example:

Spoiler: On the ending for 2001: A Space Oddysey

Not to go too far into such territory, I have long been a follower of the idea that once the creator has created and then shared, the interpretation should come from the receiver of the art. I would of course always respond to what I meant to say, but it matters very little. What truly matters is what is taken. It may not be what was intended (and sometimes the creator finds happy accidents that may not have been meant, but work nonetheless.) In any event, never fear in the asking. Be it style or substance, I do not shy away from honest critical assessment. In truth, I long for it.

Well, the war seems inevitable. Things probably would've been better if Henry was a monk - the succession wouldn't be an issue.

Let's hope that Somerset receives his comeuppance - one way or another.

Well, Henry would at the least be happier. That's for sure.

Quite aware of how difficult it is - I’ve actually been working on an Edgar Aelthing CK3 AAR for well over a year now (you actually gave me the idea) and every time I think I come close to understanding, I get a new book or read a new article or watch a new video that has me second-guessing everything.

Well done you! Watch out for those Hwicce brothers. I'd love to read that if you would share a link (I looked in CK3 but could not find it.) And it is the ultimate compliment if my work offered any inspiration at all. That saga was three to four years of my life so that means it was worth...something.

And no doubt...research is good but can make one feel the fool when something is missed. Especially when researching a period that has very little real first party historical documentation and so we must go by the conjecture of later writers. I read something the other day from a literary magazine purporting to be an historical surveyor that suggested that the Tudor brothers were named Edmund and Owen. Could be a poor editor (or none at all) or it could be the lack of real research in the first place because THAT fact is not too hard to suss out.


To all - So yesterday was a good day as my Dawgs are now a perfect 12-0 going into another playoff round with a chance to win a second National Championship in two years. I'd go into it further, but to the best of my knowledge the only other person that gives much of a damn about college football on this board (in this section at least) is @stnylan.

Needless to say, I am chuffed!

And no, I'm not watching the World Cup. I have not cared about soccer (as we Americans call it) since I sucked at playing it as a small child. Slightly odd, since I was not very good at baseball either but I do love that game. Hmm.

Anyway, this is not a sports blog. So back to the action! And after many pages and lots of possibility, we may finally be there. The next update follows after a moment. As always, I thank you for reading and offering your many excellent comments. As much as the story itself, it is your interaction with it that keeps me moving. So thank you!

 

[coz1]

St. Albans, May 1455​

In the early morning hours of May 22, Richard of York stood with his nephew the Earl of Warwick and peered through the mist to the town of St. Albans. From his place east of the town, he could see the wooden barricades erected in the thirteenth-century ditch that marked the original fortifications. He then looked closer and watched his own men blocking the exits from the town. With a determined snort, he looked back to the King’s army, “He believes that no one will get in, but they will not get out either.”

“Not without an answer,” Warwick agreed.

York turned to him with a nod, “It is good that you arrive when you do. I was beginning to worry.”

“I heard that you had marched out of Ware and the King from Watford,” Warwick smiled, “What better place to meet.”

“It is not ideal,” York shifted his gaze back to the town, “I would prefer an open field. With your numbers, we are larger than the King’s force. If it comes to it, we should fare well.”

Warwick showed a quizzical eye, “If...my Lord? Do you not mean when?”

“While I am determined, your father still speaks to me. Try and try again. I grow increasingly tired of trying, but I shall do. One more time.”

“You know well what the answer shall be,” Warwick suggested.

York looked to his nephew with a stern eye, “And I have told you that I will do all in my might to make peace with my cousin. Yet I shall not do with Somerset. No longer.”

“That does not look as peace to me, sir,” Warwick pointed to the town, “Rather a fighting force ready for battle.”

“They do not hold full strength,” York shrugged his shoulders with indifference, “Shrewsbury is not there, for one. Still to the continent. And I do not see the Oxford banner, nor that of Stanley.”

Warwick allowed a nod, “Yet what of Norfolk, my Lord? I understand him to hold to Hertfordshire without commitment to either side.”

“So he will matter not for either side,” York looked on with certainty, “Yet some members of his do show. I think him to be loyal.”

“Yet eighteen peers, sir,” Warwick again pointed, “Buckingham...Northumberland? Clifford and Wiltshire...as well as the banner of Exeter. Even the Earl of Devon, my Lord. It appears that he has not yet forgiven you for his last foray against the King.”

“His misfortune,” York suggested, “And the only peer that matters is Somerset. He will not end this day with his life. One way or the other. And that hour grows long. Send for the Mowbray herald. I am told that he is in our company. At the least, the King may believe Norfolk is with us.”

“Very well,” Warwick did as commanded and soon the herald was away to the barrier of the town at the north end of St. Peter’s Street. When challenged by sentries, he bore a message from the Duke of York suggesting that the King’s army might wish to retreat to Barnet or Hatfield for the night while negotiations proceeded. This word was taken to the King’s camp to the market place where King Henry and Buckingham considered what to do.

“You know what Somerset’s answer would be, Your Grace,” The Duke counseled.

The King stared ahead pensively, “I think...not the we hold the numbers, my Lord. And I wish to give our cousin every reason to answer his call. Go to him, my Lord...try reason one more time.”

“I will call for Salisbury, Your Grace,” Buckingham offered a bow, “May he be that very voice.”

And so the Duke rode out to treat. He found York with his brother in law Salisbury at the head of their camp, “My Lord of York...you are arrayed as if for battle. Three divisions I see and all at the ready.”

“And you are clad in your armor, my Lord of Buckingham,” York answered him, “Whatever for?”

Buckingham replied, “This is a poor business, Richard. I know of your frustrations, but there are other ways to see them answered.”

“I see not how,” York shook his head, “One letter after another has been sent and none are answered. I can only presume that the Lord of Somerset hides my intentions from the King. As he tried to hide his own from me. We come here all as rightful and true subjects of His Grace and would happily one more time show my faith. Yet I will not leave here until them such that we will accuse are surrendered to us, and I shall not resist until we have him which deserves death.”

“Do you agree with this, Lord Salisbury?” Buckingham looked to the Earl.

Salisbury gave nod, “At all times I have counseled patience, but that time seems at an end, my Lord. Somerset will not have peace and so we hold no other choice.”

“Then I shall inform His Grace,” Buckingham made to ride off, “Please hold until he may respond.”

York called after, “We will wait only so long, my Lord!”

When Buckingham returned to the King, he found the Duke of Somerset with him. With a heavy sigh, he reported York’s words and Henry became uncharacteristically wrathful, “Damnable man!”

“As I have told you, Your Grace,” Somerset replied quickly.

Buckingham once more tried to reason, “Your Grace...I understand that the Duke holds with him his thirteen year old son the Earl of March. Surely he does not intend to find the boy harm.”

“I hold mine here also, Your Grace,” Somerset answered, “I would not see him harmed either, but the Earl of Dorset stands with you!”

Henry stared at them both with a hard eye. He was silent for a time before finally giving his word, “I am the King! I charge and command that no manner of person abide that not, but void the field and not be so hard to make any resistance against me in mine own realm! I shall know what traitor dare be so bold to raise a people in mine own land, where-though I am in great dis-ease and heaviness! By the faith that I do owe to St. Edward and the Crown of England, I shall destroy them, every mother’s son, and they be hanged, drawn and quartered that may be taken afterward as example to all such traitors to beware to make any such rising of people within my land and so traitorly to abide their King and Governor. Rather than they that shall have any lord here with me at this time, I shall this day for their sake, and in this quarrel, myself live and die!”

“Your Grace...” Buckingham began to reply but Somerset stopped him.

“The King has spoken, my Lord! Send these words back to York and see if he be so kind after that!”

The Duke of Buckingham offered a forlorn bow, “As you desire, Your Grace.”

His meet with York was this time even shorter. Buckingham shared the message and York merely gave nod and answered, “I hold no quarrel with you, Stafford...but we shall sadly meet again this day.”

When Buckingham rode back to the town, the Duke of York turned to his army and grimly put on his helmet. He ordered his trumpeter to sound the alarm and mounted his destrier. At a slow trot, he was met with both the Earls of Salisbury and Warwick at the front of his men. He began to shout as he rode up and down the line, “Time and again, we have been thwarted in our desire to see the one that harms this realm finished! The devil that speaks into this King’s ear is here this day and this day shall be his last! For you, my brothers, I will stand with you as we rid this realm of its pernicious evil! We are true and loyal subjects to King Henry named the sixth and as he is our King David, we shall represent Joab and protect the grace of this King with all of our might! Be not fearful of your Lord, good men, for He loves you and this day you serve only Him!”

With that, York returned to his deputies. Looking to Salisbury, he ordered, “We shall attack St. Peter’s Street and Sopwell Street all leading to the market place. Clear the barricades and take charge of the royal standard, though I see it not raised. My Lord Warwick...keep to reserve and hold the Earl of March safe. He shall see his first battle this day. He shall...see...it. Not partake!”

“I will not fail you, my Lord!” Warwick announced before riding off to take charge of his men.

York turned his mount around towards St. Albans and then spoke calmly, “Brother...it is time.”

The elder Richard Neville tipped his helm and rode off to command his troops. Within minutes, the sound of hooves and yells carried through the air and battle commenced. It had been a long time coming...many years, in truth...but armed resolution was finally at hand.

 

[Historywhiz]

Well done you! Watch out for those Hwicce brothers. I'd love to read that if you would share a link (I looked in CK3 but could not find it.)

Still in planning phase on my computer - due to a bad habit of mine of leaving projects half completed, I’m not going to post it until it is mostly done and I am confident I can bring it to a conclusion.

Edit: and the brothers Hwicce are a heck of a thing in any playthrough, they’re either dying in battle or overthrowing the conqueror before I even consolidate my power base.

 

[TheButterflyComposer]

Honestly I suspect the king may eventually win...and then the paternity of the child is revealed. Maximum amounts of awkward, drama and catastrophe.

But then again, I can't see York and the North losing. There's a reason why they won OTL. They held too many advantages, and they retain them all now, and more, because York himself is still alive and able to command.

 

[HistoryDude]

And, at long last, the war begins...

If the king wins and the child's paternity becomes known, that would even more problematic for the succession. On the one hand, you have an illegitimate child of the Queen - and, on the other, a rebel. There's no way that would end well. Can children be revealed as illegitimate in EU4, actually?

I wonder if the armies on the continent will interfere eventually...

 

[Kurt_Steiner]

Well, I've finally caught up with the ongoing plot.

I think it's the first time that Henry VI manages to captured my simpathy. A very moving and well done portrait of that unlucky king.

And York being York but with a twist.

Just outstanding.

 

[coz1]

Fb-fb:

Still in planning phase on my computer - due to a bad habit of mine of leaving projects half completed, I’m not going to post it until it is mostly done and I am confident I can bring it to a conclusion.

Edit: and the brothers Hwicce are a heck of a thing in any playthrough, they’re either dying in battle or overthrowing the conqueror before I even consolidate my power base.

I know others that do the very same. That said, we are all very inviting round these parts and I am likely not the only one that would love to read what you have created. It's a fascinating period and Eadgar a fascinating figure. One of the best "what ifs" in history.

Honestly I suspect the king may eventually win...and then the paternity of the child is revealed. Maximum amounts of awkward, drama and catastrophe.

But then again, I can't see York and the North losing. There's a reason why they won OTL. They held too many advantages, and they retain them all now, and more, because York himself is still alive and able to command.

Obviously, I cannot say. Though that is an interesting route to go. Yet really, this whole period is fits and starts. There really is no ultimate winner. I was explaining the period to a friend that is not fully aware of the WOTR and suggested that while it is called the Wars of the Roses, it really should have been called the Battles of the Roses to more accurately explain what happened. It was not one long war but rather some few battles in between the scheming and power plays.

And, at long last, the war begins...

If the king wins and the child's paternity becomes known, that would even more problematic for the succession. On the one hand, you have an illegitimate child of the Queen - and, on the other, a rebel. There's no way that would end well. Can children be revealed as illegitimate in EU4, actually?

I wonder if the armies on the continent will interfere eventually...

EUIV does not really do well with the familial lines like CK does. There could be an event in game, I suppose, but that won't happen here. It's just a little thing that only you and we know.

As to the continent, you've given me a good idea. I'm about half way through the next chapter and I think to include some info about there. So thank you!

Well, I've finally caught up with the ongoing plot.

I think it's the first time that Henry VI manages to captured my simpathy. A very moving and well done portrait of that unlucky king.

And York being York but with a twist.

Just outstanding.

First of all, great to see you around these parts again!! And thank you very much for the compliment! I believe you were one of the readers of this story when last I attempted it in EU3 so it is awesome to see you return and read what I've attempted this go round.

And I'm really pleased that my portrayal of Henry is coming off as I intended. There is no doubt that he is a complicated character, and as you say "unlucky" but I want him to be relevant and meaningful. Not just an after thought. It's not easy because he doesn't give me much to work with (sadly) but there are tendrils there to weave together and if it is moving to you then I think I've done my work correctly. Again, thank you!


To all - I very much want to post the next section right away because it is the true culmination of this chapter but I'll wait a day at least to give others time to catch up. Yet, as always happens, I am writing again and when I do I tend to write a lot. So we may speed up a bit. Fair warning.

Thank you all so much for reading and giving comment! And I'll plug again the 2022 AARland Year-end AwAARds now ongoing for the next two months. I put out some feelers yesterday in the various sub-fora so hopefully we will see more eyes. As I mention in the main thread, I hope that you will plug it in your own works. The more eyes we see, the better the results. I'll repeat, you need not vote for this work (though I thank you if you do) but please do vote and share your favorites from this past year. All writAARs will thank you!

 

[TheButterflyComposer]

Obviously, I cannot say. Though that is an interesting route to go. Yet really, this whole period is fits and starts. There really is no ultimate winner. I was explaining the period to a friend that is not fully aware of the WOTR and suggested that while it is called the Wars of the Roses, it really should have been called the Battles of the Roses to more accurately explain what happened. It was not one long war but rather some few battles in between the scheming and power plays.

It probably would have been more of a war if Henry didn't keep getting sick, captured or both etc. As it was, it was a battle every so often, and he usually lost and got captured or sick again.

 

[coz1]

It probably would have been more of a war if Henry didn't keep getting sick, captured or both etc. As it was, it was a battle every so often, and he usually lost and got captured or sick again.

Haha! I initially read the above as "...he usually got lost..." which is not entirely inaccurate.

 

[coz1]

St. Albans, May 1455​

Edward, the young Earl of March, stood next to Warwick and watched the battle unfold. He was unnerved, “Cousin! Father is beaten back! Why do you not assist?!”

“It is not my order of yet,” Warwick replied though he was also concerned.

“The fighting to the barriers is not working!” Edward protested.

Warwick held an armor clad arm to the young man’s shoulder, “Battle is as much patience as it is action, sir. Your father and mine will see their due.”

They were interrupted when Sir William Herbert rode up and dismounted, “My Lord of Warwick...it is a hardship!”

With alacrity, Warwick turned to him, “The situation within the town, sir?! Tell it to me!”

“I am sorrowful that it has taken me so long, my Lord,” Herbert answered, “Was forced to circle south to get to you. Every road is guarded but the soldiers were taken unawares when the Duke attacked. It is a confusion.”

Warwick pointed quickly, “And we see where these soldiers go! What of the King?”

“To the market place, my Lord,” Herbert replied readily, “Though he be armored, he stays to there. He says to his own that the soldiers should be spared, but lords, gentry and yeoman might be put to the sword.”

“And who leads these at the barricades?” Warwick asked.

Herbert said he did not know, “Either Somerset or Clifford, my Lord. Buckingham commands and while some had drifted off into the town during the parlay...they have rushed to fill the attack.”

“Do you see, cousin?!” Edward shouted, “Your worth is required!”

“Wenlock!!” Warwick shouted and when met, he declared, “See the young Lord here to safety. His father would not see him harmed!”

Sir John Wenlock gave quick nod as he dragged the boy away with Edward protesting. Herbert looked to the Earl, “Is that wise, my Lord? Sir John was formerly chamberlain to the Queen.”

“And now he is to here, sir!” Warwick looked to the knight, “Can we get back into the town? Some other entrance?!”

Sir William pointed, “They are pulling themselves to the barriers, my Lord. Every one that joins the defense is a soldier not guarding another. Perhaps the garden sides? Between the Key and Checker on Holywell Street? That’s how I got out.”

“It will have to do!” Warwick answered as he rushed to his men and shouted, “We are to arms, sirs! Follow me and serve as guard for the Lord of York! We will proceed to the market and aim to the King’s standard! Archers! Array and shoot to any and all about the King! Clear our advance and let no man stand in the way!”

Moving swiftly, his soldiers began forcing their way into the town. With their progress covered by the archers, Warwick and his men hacked their way through those that attempted to thwart their entry. The assault became a melee and the fighting was furious. As more and more breached the town backsides, Warwick had his alarm sounded and his men began to shout, “A Warwick! A Warwick!!”

When soldiers moved to answer this fresh assault, fighting to the east became more even and the Duke of York and his were able to press their cause. The King himself became uneasy. He looked to his standard bearer the Earl of Wiltshire, “Bring me Somerset!!!”

The Earl was unsure, “Your Grace…I know not where he is!!”

“Then find him!” Henry shouted just before an arrow hit his neck.

Wiltshire went to the King, “Your Grace!!”

“My Lords...” the Earl of Dorset ran to the market place and saw the King to the ground, “...Your Grace...you are hurt!”

Henry felt to his neck with a shock and saw the blood to his hand, “Ye do foully to smite a King anointed so!”

“My Lord Wiltshire,” the young Earl demanded, “You must get the King to safety!”

“But where??” Wiltshire questioned as he tried to guard himself from the raining arrows.

Young Dorset pointed, “The tanner’s house...just there. Find him cover!!”

As Wiltshire looked, he turned back to see the young Beaufort Earl felled by an arrow. With fear, he abandoned the royal standard and the King to find his own safety. Confusion reigned and soon the King’s forces were being pushed back on all sides. York and Salisbury fought their way up St. Peter’s Street and Warwick kept up his assault. As more and more moved to fight both, Warwick finally found the ultimate prey.

In hand to hand combat, the Duke of Somerset, Edmund Beaufort did not know what had happened to his son nor the King. He had seen the Earl of Northumberland slain already by the forces of Salisbury and now found himself fighting next to Lord Clifford, “We are soon to be surrounded, sir! To the King!”

“You were to be to the church!” Clifford shouted as he parried a blade, “To cover the road!”

Somerset tried to answer but when he turned, Clifford could not reply. The man that had killed him was now coming for the Duke. Edmund Beaufort covered himself as best he could while all of those around him began to retreat. With a thrust, he shoved his sword into his attacker and then took a breath. A very short one as he looked to the distance and saw Buckingham faltering. He saw too that York and Salisbury continued their progress up the street. He swung to his back and saw an inn called the Castle. His only fortress.

Finding refuge was not to be had. No sooner had he entered than the door was thrust aside and soldiers filled in followed by the Earl of Warwick, “I think you to finally be alone, my Lord!”

“You are a traitor!!” Somerset shouted.

Warwick showed a sneer, “And you are wounded, my Lord. Yet if you wish to fight...raise your blade!”

The Duke did so and parried one or two glances but he was tired and demoralized. An attempt of an overhand thrust found a heavy sword to his belly and he fell back with great pain. Warwick pulled the blade from him and then smiled, “For the Queen, my Lord...and your bastard child!”

“For...the crown...” Somerset tried to answer as he attempted to hold up his weapon.

Warwick grinned, “For you, my Lord...that no longer will matter.”

The sword pierced him again and Edmund Beaufort, the Duke of Somerset, was dead. York’s stated goal was accomplished and the rest was...horrifying.

Outside of that inn, hundreds were dead and many more injured. The town was ravaged and so were its people. Corpses were stripped and despoiled and left naked to public view. It was, in short, a slaughter at the end. Hard fought, on both sides, the battle itself barely took an hour. Yet a line had been crossed. The Duke of York had claimed peace and this was nothing like that.

York did not seem to mind when he met Warwick outside of the inn, “I think us to have won, my Lord.”

“And your prey is just inside,” the Earl pointed with a smile.

Richard showed a disappointment, “He was to be mine.”

“And so he is, my Lord,” Warwick grinned, “I just got to him first.”

“How did he die?” York questioned, “Bravely...or as a coward?”

Warwick shrugged, “Does it truly matter?”

The Duke of York looked out over the carnage and shook his head, “No...I suppose it does not.”

“Brother!” Salisbury stepped to them weary in both mind and body, “Where is the King?!”

The Duke of York grasped his arm, “You are safe, sir! Well done!”

“Well done for us,” Salisbury answered, “The Duke of Buckingham is down...as are many others. Yet again...the King?!”

Warwick pointed, “I saw him fall at the market place. I know not.”

Richard moved with all haste and could only find a weak and frightened Earl. Pulled from behind barrels outside of a pub, the Earl of Wiltshire held forth his blood stained hands, “Please, my Lord!! I mean you no harm!!!”

Salisbury answered him, “You are the standard bearer...such that you could be! Where be the King? Is he alive?!!”

“To the tanner’s house...mayhap...” Wiltshire shivered under their wrath, “He was hurt...but still King.”

York showed a stern eye in response as he walked towards the house, “Take him. We will deal with what is left.”

“Brother...” Salisbury followed, “...show a kindness. If he is injured, he is also hurt.”

The Duke looked to his brother in law, “See to this. And I will do what I must. Nephew...to me!”

They found King Henry in a bed tended to by the Abbot of St. Edmunds. Whethamstead looked to them both with sadness, “It is a terrible thing done this day, my Lords.”

“Is it?” Warwick questioned but the Duke of York stepped past him to look upon the King.

“Cousin...how do you fare?”

Henry looked to him with shock, “What has happened?!”

“A reckoning...as I told you,” York replied as he sat to the bed next to the King, “I made my demands...and they were not heard.”

“I would hear you,” Henry replied with weakness.

Warwick stood over them, “And so you have.”

“Nephew!” York answered sharply before turning back to the King, “Are you injured grievously?”

The Abbot responded, “His Grace shows harm but shall be made whole if we were to move him to the Abbey. We will see to his recovery.”

“No!” Richard sounded quickly, “He is back to London...on the morrow. Make it so!”

Henry was able to lift a hand and grasped, “Cousin...what of...Somerset? Buckingham?”

Richard of York clasped his own hand to his cousin’s, “One is dead, sire. The other...quite hurt. It needn’t have been this way.”

“Which one?” Henry showed a curious eye.

York answered readily, “The Beaufort Duke. I think Stafford to live, though his son may not.”

“How?” the King requested.

York turned to Warwick before giving the King a kind eye, “Honorably...somehow.”

Henry tried to smile, “Then...you have...won?”

“I’ll not gloat in front of you,” Richard answered, “Yet we have indeed...”

“Silenced,” Henry suggested.

Richard frowned, “If only you say so.”

“I...I am hurt,” Henry offered, “Take me...to the Abbey.”

“I cannot allow it,” the Duke of York was firm, “You are to Westminster...to London. To show your people that you remain King.”

Henry looked to his cousin with question, “Am I?”

“Of course you are!” the Abbot responded, “And I say to you again, my Lord...His Grace requires a tending!”

“I am sure he does,” Warwick suggested.

The Duke of York stood, “I feel sorrow, cousin...Your Grace...for all of the pain that I may have caused. I held no alternative but to defend myself and those that surround me. If I had gone to Leicester as was planned...as summoned...I would have been taken prisoner and suffered a painful and shameful death. Mine own family would have lost their livelihood and goods and our heirs shamed forever more. I could not allow this to happen.”

The King looked to the Abbot Whethamstead with a curious eye, “I suppose I...could not disagree.”

“I am pleased that you see the similarity,” York gave nod, “For I am no more your enemy than your uncle Humphrey was. It is simply...the poor men that surround you.”

Warwick suggested, “No more.”

“Yet...I cannot...” the King looked to the ceiling of the inn, “...cannot believe that he is dead.”

“You may rest assured of that...Your Grace,” Warwick answered.

York shot his nephew an unkind eye before looking to his cousin, “I think you to live. And I shall take all care to make certain that this is so. I strive to convince you...and I do so now...you are our sovereign Lord and King. I will not apologize unduly for my actions but again...needs must and I did what I had to do. I hope...that you may forgive me, Your Grace.”

“I am hardly out of my sickbed, it would seem...” Henry offered with a kind eye, “...and yet here I am again, cousin. And mayhap...in worse state. Yet I am happy to be alive and thanks be to God Almighty that I am so. I know not what my wife...the Queen...shall do. I suppose...that is for you to decide.”

“Your Grace...my good and loving cousin...” York attempted to be tender, “...I will show her and all else with all due reverence. I may do no other.”

Henry looked to him with a sad eye, “Because you have won?”

“I have won for you, Your Grace!” York suggested strongly.

The King closed his eyes in response, “If you say so.”

“I believe His Grace needs time to sleep, my Lords,” the Abbot suggested, “And mayhap time for you to see what you have done!”

York was not interested in fighting with him and gave nod. He reached down and brushed at Henry’s face, “I will see you back to London, sire.”

When they left, Warwick was quick to suggest, “I think him addled once again, sir. He is defeated and it preys upon his mind.”

“He may be so...” York answered, “...but he remains sovereign. We have taken what we desired and he shall be an easier ear for us now. He will be traveled back to his seat and we, in power once more. This is why we have done so, is it not?”

Warwick allowed a firm eye, “We are alive because Somerset is dead, my Lord.”

“Good on you for understanding,” Richard suggested as he walked on, “Yet understand another. Those that have perished this day have left a legacy. Somerset...his son, should he live. He does hold another. Poor Clifford. That shall never be forgiven. His son too will wish for blood. Buckingham that may lose his own son...he will no longer be an ally. Northumberland? I shall leave that to you and your father to figure out. In short, my young Lord...we are not yet finished. Far from it. We have now stepped to the path. The end of our journey is...uncertain.”

 

[TheButterflyComposer]

The original instigator may be dead, and thus technically this is a victory, but this is merely the start of a civil war. It will not end till the monarchy is strong and whole again, and all the families surrounding it repay their debts in blood or otherwise are dead.