I Can Jump Puddles

     It's early winter and rain has fallen during the night, forming puddles on the path at the edge of the park. No-one pays them any attention on a quiet Sunday morning, except me. They walk their dogs and bid me "good morning", and I'm in my seventieth year. Seventy! I strongly rebelled when I was almost fifty and within a matter of years, it's now seventy. Frightening or contemplative? Foreboding or exciting? Forbidding or engaging?
      In the twilight of your years there is a temptation or tendency to begin wallowing in old age, grumbling about the body falling apart, aches and pains trying to deflect from a normal lifestyle - whatever that is.
     When puddles confront me, they have much to offer. Looking into their midst you can see forever, watch birds flitting in the trees, trees that delve deeply into the reflections - waving this way and that in a breeze blowing that sometimes shimmers the surface of the puddle. Pink and grey-tipped early morning clouds, scud wistfully across a blue sky that appears as infinity in the puddles. The last colours of autumn reflect their hues of fading yellows and reds. Leaves flutter silently down to lie gently on their surface, momentarily disturbing the tranquility.
     After the rain, worms have slithered from vivid, wet green grass, onto pavements, beaching themselves to an unpleasant fait - for they never return and lie alone until they dry up and die. It saddens me, but removing the masses is not possible, nor practical, so they will remain there and isolated.
     Late mushrooms push up through the damp and rich-smelling earthiness, revealing their creamy tops tinged with the light brown, that for years I've eaten. They must be edible - I'm still here!
     I often contemplate over the future, philosophize what it will behold, think about my end and wishing it to be quick. But not for now. There is a life to live, a future to share, love to give, places to visit, photographs to take, and maybe more writing to achieve. That's been a recent interest - for what it's worth, it may well continue - God willing.
     One important thing to be achieved before whatever end is in store, for I care not about that for now - I am alive, free and happy and I can jump puddles.

The Way Home - Chapter Five

     All four men had thankfully survived the ordeal with some severe bruising, but no broken bones. There was relief all round with the quick thinking of Richard helping enormously. Several large poles were found in the vicinity and used as levers to ease the heavy timbers upwards; enough to drag their trapped legs free, the pain subsiding eventually.
     After the long struggle accompanying Prince Edward, he at last led them into breaching the south wall of Kenilworth Castle. Richard and his entourage were reluctant to help, but it was of necessity to them being pardoned for their part in the rebellion at Evesham, over a year ago. Within each man that needed to swear his allegiance to the King, it was a deeply humiliating experience and it went against their original loyalties to Simon de Montfort. They still mourned his loss.
     Nonetheless, they each felt they had proved their worth, one way or another. They had not wanted to assist the Prince or indeed King Henry III, but their futures were at stake. They looked forward to returning to their homes, their duty to the King paid in full, or so they thought.
     Edward's men had captured the causeway, then the garrison was forced back. Eventually after moving the siege engines gathering momentum, the inner bailey was under attack. The defenders, led by Henry de Hastings, after holding out for months, finally lost their strength with many falling to disease and running out of food, resulting in loss of power when they came under fire. Ladders were employed and no further resistance came from within, the garrison being forced to surrender. Robert de Vere, Earl of Oxford, being knighted by Simon de Montfort, held out hope Simon's son, also named Simon would return from France to break the siege. But it was not to be. It was almost over.
     Harsh terms were applied by the King to the remaining survivors, much to the dismay of Prince Edward. He was not in agreement with his father and they had openly quarreled. Edward was temporarily in disgrace, much to the amusement of Richard and all the men accompanying him. Henry eventually backed down, not wanting a mutiny on his hands.
     Finally after the resistance being difficult to crush, the remainder of rebels accepted the Dictum of Kenilworth, they were offered the right to buy back their forfeited estates at a price according to their level of involvement in the rebellion. Terms were accepted and around mid December they surrendered.  
     Henry eventually granted the castle to his younger son Edmund, Earl of Lancaster, together with the rest of de Montfort's land and titles.
     William, John and Simon and one other, had escaped the tragedy of losing a leg or two when dragged out from a carelessly moved siege engine, or worse still - their lives. They were more than grateful for the quick thinking of Richard, who more than owed them for their help, being responsible for the release of his wife after her abduction. It was the least he could do. They had formed a close association while at Kenilworth, and it was now time to head home.
     They were all about to mount their horses, when they had a summons from the King. Their presence was requested immediately. The men looked at one another, their faces turning from expectation of returning home, to indignation.
     'Now, what could he possibly want with us?' John's penetrating dark eyes looked at Richard, his expression becoming defiant, exasperation rising from the pit of his stomach.
     Richard was puzzled, as were the other men, but a summons from the King was not to be ignored. To do so would be foolhardy.'I was aware we had fulfilled our duty,' he muttered almost to himself.
     Simon, the youngest at twenty five replied, 'perhaps his mood is still dark after the confrontation he had with Prince Edward, over the matter of  the harsh terms he set out originally for the rebels; still barely existing within the Castle, poor devils.'
     'Well I'd like to confront him, but it wouldn't be about buying back my land at an exorbitant amount!' William handed his reins to a young squire, his eyebrows almost meeting in a deep frown, mood foreboding.
     Richard was about to laugh at the jest, but suddenly turned to face William. 'Perhaps that is exactly what he intends...'
     'God's bones, you are not serious I hope Richard?' Simon's outburst reflected what they were all starting to believe.
     'I hope not either...'
     'Well, we're about to find out,' John intervened, his impatience evident, tolerance fast running out. 
     The other men were now fully dismounted. With a certain amount of trepidation, they began the long walk to face the King; they hoped for one last time.
     'We had better waste no time. Whatever he wants, I hope it doesn't prevent our planned journey home. I have a young wife waiting and it's almost the Christmas season. But I don't somehow feel like celebrating at the moment.' Richard strode on, grim-faced, the three men closely behind him. They fell silent, each with his own thoughts, a steady cold rain starting to fall. Around them, puddles quickly formed upon the uneven ground. A misty gloom settled over them and it wasn't only the weather.
     Eventually they arrived at where the King was to be found, a large entourage around him, making calculations, men busy writing with quills, continually dipping them in dark ink. They were ushered to a small outer area to await his command, taking what seemed like hours before they finally went before King Henry III of England.
     To their horror, a special agreement had been drawn up, which at first sounded as if they were still not free men. The king's face was bland, almost tense, difficult to read. The four men were to learn that they had been partially pardoned for one further year and if, after that year they had abided by the full terms of this new agreement, they would be granted a full pardon. If not, they risked losing any land they owned for their entire lifetime.
     The four men stood with hands clenched, eyes narrowed and it was as well their swords had been temporarily confiscated, as they might have been tempted to use theme. Before they were free to go, they were required to kneel before the king and swear their allegiance to him a second time; a last humiliation the four men were loathe to do, gritting their teeth, but a necessity nonetheless.  
     Eventually they were free to return home, each man seething deep down at the further punishment inflicted on them. They had acquitted themselves well they thought, but Henry, in his usual way, had other ideas and would continue making them pay for their part at Evesham, supporting Simon de Montfort and the rebel Barons, resulting in Simon's untimely death.
     Rain had eased when they were mounted, ready to travel the long journey home. All the men bar one, who had originally set out with Richard, were thankfully able to join him. A stray arrow had unfortunately embedded itself between the ribs of Thomas, a young man from his estate, piecing his heart. He died instantly not suffering a prolonged agony. Richard was sad for his loss, as would be his family.
     He gripped the reins, turning his horse Bedwyr to face the men, and gave the command to head in a southerly direction. His thoughts turned to Katherine, his young pregnant wife; he was anxious to see her again, hoping she had remained well during his absence. Katherine's health was important to him and her ability to give him more children in the future. The first one could be difficult, but he had every faith in his wife to carry the child to its full term and give birth without too much pain. He cared for her a great deal.

     In his absence, Katherine tried to remain resolute, often conferring with Martha, their housekeeper about the running of the manor. She was still young and learning fast.
     Other matters were left to Henry, Richard's steward, who carried out his duties with impeccable care and attention to detail - until one day without warning, while he rode the perimeter of the estate, a heavy branch suddenly cracked and fell in a strong gust of wind, catching him on the arm, breaking it. He was annoyed at the inconvenience, and somehow managed to return with it tucked into his tunic. The pain was severe, putting him briefly out of action. His muscular arms and body from all the physical work he undertook, thankfully stood him in good stead to cope. Upon return, it was attended to by Martha. She had seen several broken bones in her day, knowing how to splint and bind them.
    
     Richard and company were only one day out from Kenilworth, the air sharp with frost, roads prone to ice. They had to take care over any frozen ground they were likely to encounter. It was hard going for the horses if they increased their pace too suddenly, as legs could be damaged on the ice. Clouds of hot air from their breath wafted momentarily through the air, then disappeared. Long periods of cantering left the horses sweating at the end of it, the air growing even colder as the sun dipped early. They had a good rub down by the grooms and young Hugh was busy with his chores. He had a natural ability with horses and Richard was pleased with him. It was a last minute decision to take him with them, proving to be a good one. Hugh was growing fast and big for his age, with a good head on his young shoulders. 
     The following day they were passing through a darkened woodland, as threatening low clouds hung overhead. They were strung out along a narrow track, deciding to rest the horses briefly, watering them in a stream. A weak sun briefly cast long shadows around them. Hugh, always alert and keen to please, disappeared into thick undergrowth nearby to relieve himself. While there he thought he heard a sharp crack coming from between some nearby trees, sounding like a twig breaking underfoot. At that moment there was a faint glint of light that flickered from what could be a weapon. He cried out alarming the others, seeing riders emerging from the trees to their right and bounded out from where he stood. 
     'Sir, look...!' At the same time, several of the men noticed where he pointed, and to their dismay, were about to be set upon by what looked like bandits. Instantly swords were drawn from scabbards as they prepared to defend themselves. Immediately the sound of steel on steel echoed through the trees, shouts went up as they parried blow for blow. Luckily they were not outnumbered, but these ruffians were fierce.  Most of the men with Richard had remained fit and strong, their sword arms constantly exercised so they were always ready for anything unforeseen. The men sliced and cut, breathing hard. Although the bandits were ruthless, they were not able to overwhelm with their sword skills. Richard caught glimpses of William and John close-by dealing their usual efficiency. An arm was severed, blood flowing, soaking the ground as William took charge of the man threatening him. He screamed out, backing away. Simon gritted his teeth, letting out a cry as the hilt of a sword was thrust into his stomach, but he held on, catching his opponent by surprise with steely determination. He rose quickly regaining his balance, the tip of his sword plunging into the throat of his attacker. Blood bubbled up as the man was forced back, Simon finishing him off with one last thrust.
     They all fought well, not pausing for breath until all the bandits were dealt harsh blows, the air cold and steaming with their heavy breathing. Several of the attackers were badly maimed and simply gave up, retreating back through the trees, two were missing a hand or limb, unable to continue. Blood seeped into the cold ground beneath their feet. As Richard fought, his sword was momentarily knocked out of his hand, falling at the feet of young Hugh, who immediately retrieved it, handing it hilt first back to Richard. It was just in time as his opponent came at him viciously. Richard was able to fend him off, landing a heavy blow to the man's sword arm, rendering him defenseless. 
     Soon it was all over and the men were able to breathe more freely. None of them had been badly hurt. A few had torn clothing and bruises to contend with. They had survived the mauling well, until Richard looked down and noticed blood dripping from under his sleeve. Hugh noticed it, 'my lord, you are hurt!'
     'I don't expect it's anything to worry about,' replied Richard. 'Only a nick I should think.' But it started to hurt. Simon was immediately on hand and he and John helped remove Richard's torn outer clothing.
     'It's more than a nick by the looks of it.' John was not squeamish as he looked at the arm. A flap of skin was hanging down, the flesh wound deep. 'Really should be stitched,' he added.
     Richard was a little pale by now with loss of blood, but his resolute strong. 'Well we haven't the resources here and will have to make do. It can be bound up until we reach home. Rather unfortunate to happen now,' he grumbled.
     Simon had found some cloth in a saddlebag and tore it into strips. 'Let's hope this will see you safely home. It must be kept clean.'
     'What do you know about that?' retorted William.
     'I was taught it when young.' Simon felt he had to defend his remark, a little indignant. 'We had a housekeeper who told me when I was constantly getting into scrapes.'
     John joined in. 'I can imagine that,' he said with a grin. Simon let it ride and finished bandaging Richard's arm. He looked over to Hugh and smiled at him. 'You were brave to do what you did and probably saved my life. I thank you for that.' Hugh's colour changed, his face becoming flushed. 'It was nothing my lord,' he mumbled, looking down at his feet.
     Soon they were on their way home again, after gathering any spare horses in their midst, hoping nothing further would delay them. They were relatively unscathed after all that had happened.
     The weather remained cold and bleak, a little snow beginning to fall toward the end of their journey. It wasn't long before it covered their path in front, softly falling through the air in large flakes. They huddled beneath mantles and cloaks, drawing them closer as the weather grew colder. The horses were tiring. Then after weeks away, they were finally home.
     Richard eased himself off Bedwyr, who had served him well. He handed the reins to Hugh with a tired smile of satisfaction in the young man. He had proved a loyal asset to them.
     The front door opened and his lovely wife Katherine was there to welcome him home, her face aglow when she set eyes on her husband, relieved and delighted he had returned home safely.

    

Winter begins as Autumn ends

Canopy of leaves hang high
Arching boughs bending down
To lie on earthy sodden ground
Soft the wind soon to sigh.

Alas autumn's glory fades
Upon the lake shivering surface
Ducks drift with quiet purpose
Oh season lost are thy shades.

The lake so yellow steely bright
Its reflections will the senses
Wallow gently here no fences
Deeply depths float endless light.

Golden glowing Ginkgo drifts
Across shimmering water covering
Its beauty wanders hovering
Laying still yet soon to shift.

Cloudburst o'er the lake so calm
Rain seeps through dripping song
Overhanging on golden pond
Winter's presence be like a psalm.

Gathering force it blows few leaves
Quivering left soon to die
Away to float on breath and lie
Damp and dank listening breeze.

Lovely autumn hues now fade
Into shadows darkening deeply
Only a memory with winter steeling
Gone your season's rustic shade.

Force of winter fiercely flowing
Through the foggy fitful day
Into nights will have its way
Sharp the frost its fingers glowing.

Longer nights length of shadows
Days grow short increasing cold
Winter winds its presence bold
Come the spring swift as arrows.

During the long siege - Chapter Four

     When all was not well at Kenilworth Castle, with Henry III, together with his two sons Prince Edward and Prince Edmund persistently, unrelentingly besieging the firm structure built to defend against its foes, the Baronial forces were trying to hold out from within. But still the siege continued.
     It was a very different matter with the three abductors, who had daringly made off with Richard's wife of only a matter of weeks. When they had been approached with all the necessary stealth at day's end, were taken by surprise, and quickly, efficiently, dealt with by William, John and Simon, their swords running through, maiming and finally killing all three. Richard had deeply regretted not carrying his sword at the time of meeting them on the road, but assisted all he could with only his dagger at hand.
     He had fortunately met up with his father-in-law's retainers who, together with Richard, lost no time in tracking down the dangerous abductors. 
     All it had taken was a little forethought and careful maneuvering, when the three ruthless men appeared outside their hovel where his wife was being held against her will. Their motive most likely, was a goodly ransom, to gather further funds by which they could live. 
     But their plans were thwarted when Richard and the three adequately armed men, overcame them in a brief scuffle, ending in all three being killed from whence they stood. There was no blood bath, no long wait or necessary siege. William, John and Simon were well trained, fit, their sword arms flashing as in battle, dealing accordingly, swiftly, with these men. They all lay dead close to the doorway, their bodies left for the birds to pick at, or animals to slowly eat away at their flesh. Taking them by surprise had proved successful, much to the relief of Richard. Freeing his wife was paramount in his mind that day, no matter what it took. 
     On the return journey home, he felt strongly protective of Katherine because of her condition. She was in the early stage of her first pregnancy and never felt more alive and well than she did now. He wanted her to ride in a comfortable litter, but she was enjoying possibly the last warmth autumn had to offer, her face glowing, an exhilaration of being free again, after her worrying and brutal captivity. It had been so sudden, shocking her deeply. 
     The trees were vivid in colours of deep gold, turning rustic red and brown. No, she would have none of it, preferring to ride her new palfrey, than in a litter. At first, Richard was reluctant to agree, then saw fit in allowing her, as the distance wasn't great and they could take their time. He noticed how relieved his wife looked, relishing in her new-found freedom. Deep down he did too, although still bearing a strong sense of guilt plaguing his conscious for not seeing to her careful protection, allowing her, even briefly, to stroll unescorted beside the river as he did. 
     They passed through a woodland, pine needles crushed beneath their horse's hooves, resulting in a pungent smell intoxicating Katherine as she breathed in its earthiness. She loved being outdoors, particularly on days like this when the sun shone with no rain in sight, the clouds above were as allusive as foxes at noonday. All five men seemed more relaxed, Edmund accompanying Richard and Katherine all the way home.
     William and company had left them at a fork in the road, returning to Katherine's father's place. Richard would remember to reward them for their efficiency, in helping him free his wife. He had already made a mental note.
     They had been travelling for some distance and soon the welcome sight of the manor house was in their midst. Never was Katherine more relieved to see their home, her home now. Richard had kept a close eye on her during their return journey, constantly glancing over to where she rode beside him. He was conscious he may be taking a risk, but trusting in his wife assuring him that she was feeling in the peak of health, confident there was no danger to the growing child she now carried. She had had discussions about it with Martha the housekeeper, unbeknown to him. It was early in her pregnancy and a quiet walk home he considered, was not threatening. Although Richard still felt concerned for her well being. 
     Hugh, their young stable boy, greeted them with a wide smile on his young face. Edmund was quick to dismount, though his old bones were somewhat jarred, a stiffness in his legs. He offered to help Katherine off her palfrey, after she gave it a thankful pat on his neck. She had called him Fidelis, as she was finding the Latin word fitted his nature well. But Richard was there, smiling up at his wife. He handed the reins to Edmund, thanking him for his diligence. Hugh stepped forward to lend a hand. He was given two of the horses to attend to, leading them toward the stables for a good rub down and some food. They had deserved it.
     Katherine's blue eyes flashed a warm smile at her husband as he helped her dismount. Her fair hair by now, completely unbound and she tried in vain to tidy it, her face flushed from the fresh air and Richard was never more admiring of her beauty. She almost lost her footing as they reached solid ground again, not realizing how weary she felt.
     'You look tired my dearest wife.'
     'Indeed I am my lord, but it feels good to be home once again.' Katherine winced slightly to herself, not wishing to worry her husband. 
     Their arrival home was greeted by Martha and their small staff who had heard their approach from afar and waited to welcome the mistress home. She beamed a smile and bobbed a quick curtsy to her new mistress and the master. Richard acknowledged their welcome and was keen to usher Katherine indoors, for some much needed rest with a little spoiling. Clean sheets were placed on the bed and hot water brought to their room. Katherine delighted in what seemed like a luxury after her ordeal. 
     It didn't take long for her to embellish the comforts of home once more. A fire remained burning in their room with candles lighting the intimate supper they shared. Katherine was pleased her husband consented, as all she wished now, was to hear the crackle of the wood burning in the fire place, Richard's soft voice resonating in her veins and a little home cooked food. So blissful did she feel after consuming some roasted meat, a small loaf still warm from the oven, a little cheese and the last of some fruit the cook had cleverly stewed, tasting delicious. She sipped the last of her wine, then yawned behind her hand, stretched luxuriously and smiled sleepily at her husband.
     'You must get some much needed rest soon. It's good to see you have a healthy appetite.'
     'Well, I am eating for two.' She looked out from under her lashes with a contented smile.
     'Yes you are and how that pleases me. I fully intend taking the utmost care of you throughout your confinement. No more wandering off unescorted.' He half grimaced to himself feeling the weight of guilt still upon his shoulders.
     'I am feeling very well my lord. As yet no after affects from my ordeal. I believe some ladies in my state are quite ill, particularly at the beginning of their pregnancies. It's early days yet, but long may it continue.' Katherine drew even closer to Richard as they sat gazing at the warmth and gentle flames emitting from the slow burning logs.
     Richard was tempted to put his arm around her shoulder, but thought differently this time.
     'You must sleep now my love. There has been enough excitement recently to last a lifetime.' He gently helped her up and together they made ready for bed. This was one time the servants were omitted. Richard would see to her needs himself. He too, felt the weight of the past two days.
     Many weeks of blissful existence were enjoyed by the couple. But it didn't last long.
     Just as Richard was thinking all was right with the world in their safe existence, there came a rider approaching through the front gates into the courtyard, a cloud of dust in his wake, bringing his horse to an abrupt halt near the stables. His clothes were splattered with dust and mud, face taught with what appeared at first glance to be something of great importance.
     As soon as Richard had seen him not far distant, he sensed something was wrong and hurried to the door and was quickly down the few steps leading to the courtyard, a worried look on his face. Walking to where the rider had already dismounted, he approached him cautiously.
     The young man immediately drew his hand from inside his clothing. Handing over what looked to be a formal message carrying a seal, Richard took it standing back, feeling his stomach churning. He briefly thanked the rider, directing him to the kitchen where he be rewarded with something to eat and drink. If it was necessary for him to return that same day from where he had ridden so hard, he would see to it that he and his horse were rested first.
     Walking back through the front door, Katherine met him, noticing the grave look on Richard's face.
     'What is it my love, you look worried? Who was it had ridden in just now?'
     'A messenger of some sort, and I've bidden him to the kitchen for refreshment before he returns. From where, I'm about to find out.' Richard walked through into the a corner of the hall where a trestle table stood close to the wall. He remained standing, sighed deeply, breaking the seal, then read.
     Katherine looked up, waited, seeing the colour in her husband's face drain. 'What is it Richard? Who is it from?'
     He lowered the message, not able to answer immediately. His breathing had become shallow. He turned and looked at his young wife. 'I've been summoned...'
     Before he could finish, Katherine had become anxious. 'Summoned? Where Richard? I don't understand. What does this mean?'
     'The King has requested...'
     'The King?' interrupted Katherine. She could not contain herself any longer. 'What would the King want with you...?'
     'Evidently the siege at Kenilworth has not been going well and he needs further support. It has dragged on for too long.'
     Katherine continued with her questioning. 'But you are not his sworn man. You fought against him at Evesham.' She was now starting to realize the enormity of what her husband was saying.
     'Yes, that is so, but it seems I cannot ignore this, for if I do, it will forever go against me. The King must be obeyed. I know not why this has happened, but no doubt it will mean leaving here within a day or two, maybe three. As many men as possible will be ordered to accompany me, and your father's retainers also.'
     Katherine was momentarily frantic. Her stomach churning, she looked hopefully at Richard. 'But how long will you be away? What about the baby?' Tears were not far off as she fought them back. She knew her husband would want her to remain poised, confident, a wife who would not cling. Although she was still young, Katherine remained determined to be a dutiful, competent wife.
     She straightened her back, with a resolute mind. 'I'll miss you very much, but if it's an order, then...' She looked down, her hands clenched with worry.
     'I must go my dear. I will make sure you will be well taken care of. Enough staff will remain to run things in my absence. Edmund has enough help and will stay. He is getting on now and will not be expected to accompany me. Martha is experienced and Henry will run the estate. I'm sure I'll be back long before our child is born.'
     'I couldn't bear it if you were not here Richard. Surely you would not be gone that long?' Katherine looked longingly at Richard. Her face pleading, hopeful.
     'No, of course not my love. You'll see, it will all be over with before you know it.' Richard was hoping his words were not straws in the wind. He gathered her hands between his, then drew her to him, kissing her on both cheeks, then her forehead.
     'I do so hope you are right,' Katherine replied, her face against his strong chest. She felt a sudden movement from the baby and stood back, a serene smile on her lovely face. 'I felt him move Richard.' She was sure she was carrying a male heir.
     'That is a good sign indeed!' He was more than delighted that his wife had remained well. It was still not going to be easy to leave her. She took one of his hands and placed it on her now swelling abdomen.
     'Feel him move Richard, the first time I have felt he is alive. Our son and heir.'
     Richard, although delighted, was now thinking of other matters. He kissed the top of her head. 'I must attend to this demand and as soon as possible.' His mood changed as he turned to walk away. Katherine's heart sank, as she tried to comprehend what was happening to their peaceful existence. She must remain resolute, no matter what. It was what was expected of her, but an inner voice cried out for the loss she knew she would feel when Richard departed.
     It wasn't long when all available men were gathered in the courtyard, checking their equipment, weapons and necessary supplies. A buzz went through the men.  Some horses pawing the ground with impatience. It was still very early and a frost had descended during the night with the sun barely risen. Leaves having already fallen were coated in a film of glistening moisture. Winter wasn't far off and Katherine worried inwardly for her husband about to depart on this hazardous journey.
     She looked down from a window to where everyone was assembled, not wishing to appear too anxious, then it was time for them to depart. She hastened toward the courtyard to bid them farewell. It was difficult not to shed tears and Katherine fought them back.
     From the window she had noticed her father's men had joined with Richard. They too, had fought at Evesham. William, John and Simon had backed the rebels, lead by Simon de Montfort and it was a shock when he was killed.
     Her husband had been offered a choice from the King and would be pardoned for his part in the rebellion at Evesham if he swore his allegiance to the King and agreed to support the two princes at Kenilworth. If he disobeyed, he could be disinherited or even labeled a traitor with disastrous consequences. Richard had no choice in the matter. He resigned himself to the fact he would become the King's man if necessary, as he set off in a northerly direction in the company of more than a dozen well armed and equipped men. Most of them were good fighting men and had maintained a level of fitness. William and company would, he thought, be in the same position, having to swear their allegiance to the King.
     Katherine wandered back to the loneliness of the manor house, one hand on her swelling abdomen, a feeling of loss already, an emptiness not yet experienced since her marriage some months ago. It had not taken long to fall pregnant and at least she had the child growing within her to think about. Life will be very different without Richard. She worried what he was getting into, not knowing where and when it would end and he return home. 

     As the men continued north, a feeling of uncertainty gripped them, the air tense, as they rode on covering the ground at a steady pace. Thankfully the weather remained fine but cold and they were able to ride many miles each day.
     Richard learned of the up-to-date progress of the siege so far. At its core, the Baron's war existed from years ago mainly to reign in the extravagant spending of King Henry III.  Much had happened in previous years, and under the Provisions of Oxford, some of the King's power was transferred to a council of Barons. After Simon de Montfort's unfortunate death at Evesham, the rebels were defiant and some had taken refuge in Kenilworth Castle, proving impregnable by the Royal forces.
     Upon arrival, Richard and the men were soon forced into supporting Prince Edward, attacking the inhabitants of the castle from the south, while the King attacked from the north. He found negotiations had broken down, with the rebel's land being seized, the amount to buy them back priced too high as set out in the Dictum of Kenilworth.
     The rebels had refused the harsh terms and the King prepared to take the castle by force. Richard and all the accompanying men were involved with the unenviable task with siege engines. Trebuchets and the like were used to no avail. Even supplies via the lake were thwarted and the siege had been going on too long.
     The men joined Prince Edward and their expertise with a sword was not required. After more time had passed, Edward finally led his men into the breach of the south wall, capturing the causeway as the garrison was forced back. It was not what Richard would have wished on the inhabitants, but he had no choice.
     Suddenly he heard a load cry coming from nearby. He realized with horror, William, Simon and John with one other, had been pinned down severely by one of the siege engines when it was moved. Without a moment's hesitation, he ordered several of his own men to lend a hand to help them and to hell with the consequences. He cared not a fig for what Prince Edward thought, he had to free them.
     Quickly they managed, bit by bit easing their trapped legs out from the heavy timbers, the pain on their whitened faces slowly changing to one of relief. At no time did Richard think it wouldn't be achieved, his own sense of relief apparent as finally the four men were dragged clear. He took stock of the situation, realizing Prince Edward was far too busy to have noticed what had happened. Then he remembered back to when William and company had helped free his wife, and at the time he swore one day to reward them. Perhaps that day had come.