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.
No comments:
Post a Comment