- ARCHIVE - Royal Court of Castile-Leon

[AugCaesar]

Royal Court of Castile-Leon

Castile y León​

El Corte Real​

The Corte Real is in Peñafiel Castle near Vallalodid, the capital of Castile-Leon. The great fortress is the primary residence of the Trastamara House, and Rey Enrique IV.

Peñafiel is one of the most important fortresses of medieval Castile The ridge between the Duero and the Duraton rivers must have always been fortified. Count Sancho Garcia conquered the site in the eleventh century, and later AIfonso X left it to his brother, Don Juan Manuel, who undertook important constructions in 1307. The principal tower was rebuilt during the reign of Juan II.

Its irregular plan follows the long, narrow ridge on which it sits. The main walls are very thick and are reinforced by a variety of circular and rectangular towers. A second, lower wall encloses the larger one. The gate is set obliquely into the eastern wall and is defended by two cylindrical towers. From the outer gate one reaches the entrance to the main enclosure by a transverse wall with its own ditch. The principal tower dominates the ensemble, and its rectangular form nearly crosses the entire enclosure. Its silhouette is animated by small turrets at the comers and the center of the walls. © castles.org

El Cortes

Sancho de Sessa, Duque de Sessa, Mayordomo (Steward)
Alexo de Hurrutia, Conde de Hurrutia, Canciller of Castile
Alonso Fernandes del Rincon, Marques del Rincon, Canciller of Leon
Juan Garcia de Sevilla, Canciller of Granada
Pedro de Oñate, Almojarife Mayor (Treasurer)
Juan Gutierres, Conde de la Riba, Justicia Mayor (Justiciar)
Juan de Sessa, Marquès de Soria, Alferez (Marshal)

La Familia Real​

The Trastamara dynasty descends from Henry, Count of Trastamara, who deposed his half-brother Pedro the Cruel and became Henry II (Enrique II) of Castile and León (1369). He was followed by his grandson Juan I in 1379. The good Rey Juan ruled until 1390 when his son Enrique III took the throne, ruling until his death in 1406. Enrique's twin brother Ferdinand I would become King of Aragon in 1412.

Enrique took for his wife Catherine of Lancaster, daughter of John Gaunt, founder of the Lancastrian claim to the English throne. Their grandson Juan II, Rey Enrique III's father, would become King of Castile-Leon in 1406, and be succeeded by his wife Elionor. Upon the Queen's death in 1448 she was succeeded by her son, Our Most Catholic Majesty Enrique IV de Trastamara.

His Most Catholic Majesty Enrique IV de Trastamara​

Enrique IV, Rey de Castilla y Leon:
Born in 1432 The son and only male child to King Juan II of Castile-Leon. Some say the young king takes more after his mother than father, but only time will tell. His court is in Valladolid.

Maria, Infante de Castilla:
Daughter and oldest child of Juan II, sister to the King. Her mother, Margaret of Scotland, Queen of Castile and Leon, died during childbirth. Her father, often paranoid of her striking beauty and soft features had her always clothed and kept in pious clothing and away from men. She is unwed.

Sancho, Infante de Castilla, Duque de Sessa (Duke of Sessa):
Born in 1406 at Toledo. A gifted horseman, Sancho shows great promise for the martial career which has so shaped the Castilian nobility. Sancho was under house arrest with his mother in Vallodolid for his role in a conspiracy against his brother the late King Juan II. Upon his brother's death he was set free to act as counselor to the young King Enrique IV.

Maria, Reina de Aragón, Infanta de Castilla (Queen of Aragon):
Born in 1398 at Valladolid. She married the late Alfonso de Aragón, King of Aragon, in 1415.

Eleonore, Infanta de Castilla, Duquesa de Arión (Duchess of Arion):
Born in 1402 at Segovia, she bears the greatest resemblance in both body and spirit to the late Queen. She is usually resident in Valladolid.

Yolande, Duquesa de Lecera, Infanta de Castilla (Duchess of Lecera):
Born in 1403 in Valladolid. She married Charles VII, King of France, deposed due to his madness. She stays on her family lands in Lecera.

Blanche, Infanta de Castilla, Duquesa de Nara (Duchess of Nara):
Born in 1404 in Toro, she is intellectually gifted as well as demonstrating considerable physical prowess. As a younger daughter, somewhat neglected during her mother’s scheming for the throne, she was much in the company of her soldier-guardians, from whom she learned swordsmanship. She continues to practice regularly. She speaks Latin, Castilian, Catalan, Portuguese, French, Italian, English, and German.

Katherine, Infanta de Castilla, Duquesa de Estremera (Duchess of Estremera):
Called Catalina in Castilian. Born in 1406 at Toledo, the twin sister of Sancho. She is somewhat reserved and shy, though displaying the same intellectual skills as her sister Blanche.

Nation: Castile
Head of State: Enrique IV, King of Castile-Leon
Player: AugCaesar
Religion: Catholic
Culture: Iberian
Stats: 4/3/5/4/5 --> [4/3/5/4/4]
Provinces: 14
Ports: 6
Owned: Castilla, Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, Leon, Estremadura, Toledo, Andalusia, Granada, Gibralter, The Canaries, Valencia, Murcia, and Aragon
Annexation of Aragon (max. tech reached)

 

[AugCaesar]

The Land of Castile y León​

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Iberia is a hard land, of diverse climate and terrain. From the dark celtic hills and mountains of Galicia, to the swamps of Extremadura, and the tropic seaside of Valencia it is an assault and a pleasure to the senses. Its unforgiving nature and abundant beauty have made its people both love and respect it. As well a life of hardship for many has made apparent the glory of the One God and his earthly servant, El Rey de Castile. In the realm of Castile quite a few regions are discernible, by culture, climate, and many other things.

The Provinces of Castile y León

Castile y León

Castilla y Leon is not only the largest region of Spain, but also the heart and capital of the Kingdom. The elevated plain is limited by the the mountain ranges Sistema Iberico to the east, Cordillera Central to the south, Cordillera Cantabrica to the north and by Duero river towards Portugal.

Gastronomy is distinguished by excellent meat, in particular of lamb, and vegetables like the famous creamy beans of Avila. Artisany and popular celebrations show a rich and varied folklore, often of archaical roots and almost unknown to a wider public.

The Cities:

Salamanca
Salamanca's great historical importance is due to its University, one of the oldest of Europe. It is a city of outstanding beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Segovia
Segovia's, birthplace of the late Queen Elionore, most famous monument is certainly its colossal Roman aquaeductus which dominates all the town. Here also is the Al Alcazar.

Avila
Beautiful Avila remains entirely enclosed by impressive Romanesque walls, a staunch fortress of the King's of Castile.

Burgos
The famous cathedral,one of the greatest examples of in Spain, dominates this small city, active in trade and craftsmanship.

Leon
The city's most famous monuments are its great Gothic cathedral, the church Basilica de San Isidoro with valuable Romanesque frescoes in its crypt, and the San Marcos monastery of Renaissance period. Close to Leon you may visit the legendary Roman gold mines Las Medulas.

Zamora
Zamora is a beautiful old town with a magnificent cathedral and several great Romanesque churches. Nearby there are the 8th century Visigothic church San Pedro de la Nave, and Lago de Sanabria, the largest lake of Spain and the only one of glacial origins.

Valladolid
The capital of Castilla y Leon, and home of its King. The city itself is monumental, and in its surroundings there are innumerable castles. It is said that in Valladolid the most correct Castilian Spanish is spoken.

Aragón

This community, bordering on the kingdom's of Aragon and Navarra, is of particular interest for its outstanding mountainous landscapes, with glacier lakes and prevalence of wildlife, making it among the favorite areas for hunting. In total contrast is the plain Ebro valley, which is limited by the mountain range Moncayo, in the east.

When you are crossing Aragon's three provinces, Zaragoza, Huesca and Teruel, with many monumental towns, the splendor of the old Kingdom of Aragon, one of the centers of Iberian culture comes alive.

The Cities:

Zaragoza
The region's capital, located at Ebro river, is one of the great monumental cities of Spain. Its historic heritage of Romans and Moors is documented by the grand and varying architecture.

Teruel
Most notable are the city's great Mudejar style monuments, consequence of a long Moorish dominance. Highlights include the cathedral with its beautiful belltowers and the churches of San Martin, San Pedro and El Salvador.

Huesca
Huesca, located at the foot of the Pyrenees mountain range, offers landscapes of incredible beauty.

Castilla - La Mancha

Castilla-La Mancha, located at the very center of the Iberian peninsula, is dominated by an extense tableland, although there are mountainous landscapes too.

Of major interest to the visitor are of course the monumental cities and towns of great historical importance, like Toledo, the enchanting Cuenca and Albacete, but one should take as well several interesting alternative routes into consideration, among them: Ruta de los Pueblos Negros ("Route of the Black Villages"), having their name from the use of slate in their traditional architecture, the "Route of the Saffron Fields", "Route of the Castles", and the "Route of Don Quijote", named after Cervante's legendary "Man from La Mancha". Still today you will see many of those characteristical windmills Don Quijote was fighting with in all the land.

Traditional gastronomy is simple but tasteful, with stews, game, sausages and the famous Manchego cheese. The region's excellent wines are a perfect match.

Artisany is varied, from ceramics and embroiderings to the famous Swords of Toledo and Knives of Albacete.


The Cities:

Toledo
This majestic old city is truly one of the realm's architecturalltreasures, with magnificent monuments specially from Moorish, Mudejar, and the present.

Cuenca
This enchanting age old city, is surrounded by landscapes of incredible beauty. Among the town's most remarkable sights are the famous "Hanging Houses", and the Cathedral. In its surroundings there are several fantastic natural preserves, among them Ciudad Encantada, the "enchanted city", where erosion has created most bizarre forms.

Guadalajara
Most distinguised are the Mudejar style church Santa Maria la Mayor, the palace Duque del Infantado, the Moorish town-walls and bridge over Henares river, from the 10th century. In the province of Guadalajara the ancient town Siguenza, with its great fortress and cathedral, is a grand sight.

Albacete
A modern and functional city, located at the typical plains of La Mancha. It is known for its knife-making industry.








Province descriptions largely courtesy of www.red2000.com


More to Come!

 

[AugCaesar]

Religion in Castile y León​

Mother Church in Castile y León​

The Cardinals

Primate: Cardinal Archbishop of Madrid, Metropolitan of Castile:
Millan de Olivares

Cardinal Archbishop of Saragossa, Metropolitan of Castile:
Lorenço de Ahumanda

Cardinal Archbishop of Cordoba, Metropolitan of Castile:
Pedro de Narbona

Cardinal Archbishop of Valencia, Metropolitan of Castile:
Francisco de Peñafiel


Jews and Moors in Castile y León

From the Charter de Sevilla...

That in all places in our Kingdoms those who are called Mudejares and are also known as Moors (who are so called for that they do worship not as Christians nor as Jews but follow the heathen beliefs of Mahomet), are under our especial governance and custody; whereof one who is mudejar may not give his oath or pledge as bond to any man for he is peculiar to the King alone; and, furthermore, that all Mudejares shall pay a special tax into the King’s treasury, and that they shall have justice to their own courts when no Christian is involved and unto the King’s courts alone otherwise; and that
no noble of the Kingdoms may exact any oath or privilege from one who is mudejar which might infringe in any sort upon the King’s rights;

That in all places whatsoever in our lands and dominions, the Jews likewise shall be under the especial governance of the King alone and shall likewise receive justice in their own courts, or in the King’s courts if a Christian is involved; in all things they shall be before the law as the Mudejares save in this alone – that with the King’s good pleasure, a Jew may take an oath of
loyalty unto a Christian lord, but that the Jew shall retain his right to justice in the King’s court and the King shall retain his right to the tax peculiar to the Jews and to the head-tax at his death;

And, that those Moors who do embrace the Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and do come within the courts of the Holy Church and accept baptism, and who are thenceforth called as moriscos, shall have all rights and privileges accorded to any subject of the King and may give and
receive oaths as free men.




The Holy Orders of Chivalry

Order of the Sacred Cross - Order of Alcantara:

-History-
In the beginning of our time, the Almighty Saviour, Jesus Christ, died on the cross. The cross then of course became a part of the remembrance of Christ's sufferings and death, but also a symbol closely associated with His sacrifice and the mystery of the Passion. Followers of the early church hid the cross in the catacombs of Jerusalem, and a piece it was later found in the ruins of Ælia Capitolina, a Roman colony that was laid upon the ruins of the destroyed City. The search was led by Macarius, Bishop of Jerusalem in
the year of our Lord 327. The Cross later served Christianity well, until it was captured by the heathens on the crusade of Henri, Couer de Lione, of Platagenet.

-Decoration-
The Order is given to persons of Noble rank, whom have in an extraordinary way defended Christianity from heathens, or made dangerous quests, for the sake of re-caption of the holy relic.

Living Knight Members
Carlos Trastamara Rey de Navarra

Order of Calatrava:
-History-
A Bull confirming the Order of Calatrava came from the Pope Alexander III.

-Decoration-
The Order is given to persons of Noble rank, whom have sacrificed himself for the good of the Two Kingdoms of Castille and Leon.

Order of Saint James of the Sword - The Order of Santiago:
-History-
It has thirteen grandé members, the grandmaster included which is the Council of Thirteen (the Trecenezago). It shall work do defend the tomb of Saint James at Compostella. Pope Alexander II approved the Order in the Bull Benedictus Deus.

-Decoration-
The Order is given to persons of Noble rank, whom have in an extraordinary way defended Christianity from heathens or in any other way contributed to the defence of the relics of Saint James, or it’s pilgrims.

 

[AugCaesar]

The History of Castile y León​

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Forthwith!

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[AugCaesar]

La Bibliotèca of Castile y León​

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LAWS​

Succession Act, 1426

An Act promulgated by Juan de Castilla de Trastamara, Rey de Castilla y León, in his Cortes in his city of Vallodolid in the Year of Our Lord 1426, for the governing of the succession to the Crown of Castilla y León.

Inasmuch as it has pleased God our Father and his Son Jesus Christ to grant unto Juan of the House of Trastamara the Kingdoms over which he does now lawfully rule, and whereas his sworn oath constrains him to give all right care for the proper governance of his lands and peoples, with the advice of many and diverse councilors, assembled in this Cortes summoned lawfully by the King, his grace the King does lay down this law.

That the heir to the Crown of Castilla y León is foremost to be had of the natural children of Juan de Castilla, giving preference to his firstborn son and then to each son following, and afterwards to his firstborn daughter and then to each daughter following, providing such heir shall have been born legitimately.

In the case that the King shall die with no heir of his body, the Crown shall pass to the heirs of Enrique III de Castilla of late memory, King of Castilla y León, in like manner as already given; that is, first to Sancho de Castilla, Duke of Sessa, and his natural and legitimate heirs, then to his sisters, saving Maria, Queen of Aragon, and Yolande, Queen of France, for it is not the desire of the King nor of this Cortes to wed or join the Crown of Castile in union with that of France or of Aragon. Therefore, following in preference after Sancho de Castilla and his heirs are Eleonore Duchess of Arion, Blanche Duchess of Nara, and Katherine Duchess of Estremera.
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The Charter of Sevilla

Know all men and subjects of the King of Castilla and León, Toledo, Galicia, Seville, Jaén, Cordoba, Algeciras, and the Algarves, Prince of Antioch, Lord of Biscay and Molina, King of Granada that before his Cortes assemblied and with lawful and royal right, his grace the King does hereby proclaim and declare and make law binding upon all his subjects:

That in all places in our Kingdoms those who are called Mudejares and are also known as Moors (who are so called for that they do worship not as Christians nor as Jews but follow the heathen beliefs of Mahomet), are under our especial governance and custody; whereof one who is mudejar may not give his oath or pledge as bond to any man for he is peculiar to the King alone; and, furthermore, that all Mudejares shall pay a special tax into the King’s treasury, and that they shall have justice to their own courts when no Christian is involved and unto the King’s courts alone otherwise; and that
no noble of the Kingdoms may exact any oath or privilege from one who is mudejar which might infringe in any sort upon the King’s rights;

That in all places whatsoever in our lands and dominions, the Jews likewise shall be under the especial governance of the King alone and shall likewise receive justice in their own courts, or in the King’s courts if a Christian is involved; in all things they shall be before the law as the Mudejares save in this alone – that with the King’s good pleasure, a Jew may take an oath of
loyalty unto a Christian lord, but that the Jew shall retain his right to justice in the King’s court and the King shall retain his right to the tax peculiar to the Jews and to the head-tax at his death;

And, that those Moors who do embrace the Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and do come within the courts of the Holy Church and accept baptism, and who are thenceforth called as moriscos, shall have all rights and privileges accorded to any subject of the King and may give and
receive oaths as free men.

This given at Toledo by Juan de Trastamara, King, before his Cortes assembled

 

[AugCaesar]

Almacenaje​

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Almacenaje​

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[AugCaesar]

Vallalodid, August 23 1448

Dusk was setting in mercifully on an oppressively hot summer day, and the oncoming darkness found solace in the silence of the castle. Peñafiel had become more quiet lately as the young Enrique finally settled into his home. It was not long ago that the street was filled with mourners clad in black wailing for the loss of La Reina Elionore. They were followed by countless courtiers, merchants, clergy, and beggars relentlessly seeking their new Lord's favor. It had been a barrage on the young man, El Rey, and so he spent his time of mourning, not on his lost mother but for his own pitiful life. It was apparent to him that to be King was to be nursemaid, mother, father, and anything else to all of his many subjects, be they Noble, poor, Moor, or Jew. He had had some pleasant surprises, namely that his uncle, Sancho Duque de Sessa had seemingly come in peace and consul. Enrique remembered that day, some weeks ago when his travelworn uncle entered the court before him, and his Cortes.

"Boy," The large warrior bellowed ominously, "I am not the weak and leisurely man your father was. And neither will you be as King."

Enrique smiled as he remembered the relief that washed over him, and noticeably on his advisors as Sancho hugged, and then kissed the hand of his young King. He often wondered why this man who plotted against his father, and for it spent so many years locked away had come to him peacefully, even with love. It was only yesterday that he ventured the courage to ask the question of his uncle, and the answer was alarming.

"I am too old to be a King, and my sons too much like me to succeed my peacably."

The King thought on that most of this day, and knew he would have to watch his cousins carefully. Juan, the oldest, and five years Enrique's elder was a mirror image of his father. Strong, handsome, and quick of mind and body. Dutiful and industrious the future Duke would be a great servant, and perfectly fitted for his current role as Marshall, but the King knew also that a man of great skill could not abide fools, and Enrique could not be the man his father was before him if he were to stay on his throne. It was Sancho, the younger son, though that truelly worried the young monarch. In him he saw nothing but hatred and anger. Sancho the Younger was the King's age and his youtful vigor spent on wrathful abuse of his servants and retinue, or if nothing else wandering city dogs. He showed deference to his King, and his King alone but he would be one to be kept far from power, and the throne.

As evening turned to total black Enrique's contemplation ambled on ceaselessly until finally still setting at his desk he drifted to sleep, with only his dreams and night air to keep him company. Tomorrow his court would be officially opened, and the world would begin to know, Enrique the Third, King of Castille y León.

The Court is now open!

 

[Fireblade]

A letter arrives from Naples.

"Unto His Most Catholic Majesty, Enrique, King of Castilla and León, Toledo, Galicia, Seville, Jaén, Cordoba, Algeciras, and the Algarves, Prince of Antioch, Lord of Biscay and Molina, King of Granada,

Your Majesty, it fills my heart with joy to see the Court of your Majesty once again opened to the world. Do accept my most sincere condolences for the loss of your mother. She will surely be missed, for she did much to bring your Majesty's kingdom into the glory it so richly deserves.

However, King Enrique, there is something that demands your immediate attention. Constantine the Greek, false King of Aragon, is marching against your cousin, the rightful King of Aragon and Navarre. This war, made by a mad man upon legitimate ruler, is an utter outrage towards the natural order of things. I ask you, King Enrique, to support your cousin, King Carlos, against the vile usurper Constantine. Even now, the Emperor Joachim prepares to war against Constantine, and drive him back to the depths of hell whence he came.

There is only one right side, King Enrique. All the world now knows which side that is.

-René, King of Naples, Sicily, Aragon, Jerusalem, and Hungary, Duke of Anjou, Bar, and Lorraine, Count of Provence"

 

[AugCaesar]

Enrique read over the letter studiously, taking its words into his mind several times. His Uncle standing behind him read along, his eyes wide as his face contorted to hold back a torrent of laughter.

"I was expecting to see Vicar of Christ, after all those titles!" The old warrior slapped Enrique on the back and let loose of the laugh he had been holding. The young King smiled, pretending that he did not feel the sting in his back, and then turned puzzeledly to Sancho.

"Who is this Renè? This man of so many lands he does not rule?" Enrique knew little of the world outside Iberia, and even less of foreign counts and lessers that his mother would have dismissed as inconsequential. He knew of his cousin's plight in Navarra, and had already been prepared to help him, but he wondered where this man came into things. He was completely unfamiliar to him, and his claim to the throne of Aragón most intrigued Enrique.

Sancho rubbed his chin pensively, and stepped over to the King's side before speaking in his rough voice. "He is in reality, the count of Provence, that much he can irrefutably claim, and he rules also in Naples as King. Other than that he is one of many ambitious nobles you shall encounter in the years ahead. It seems that in this case he supports OUR cause, and that is always good." He paused and his face took on a more stern look, his sharp eyes focusing like daggers on his nephews, "He is dangerous, and ambitious for certain, and not unclever to still be alive flouting such extravagant claims. Send word, peaceful and friendly word to him, but promise nothing, and be certain he knows your power, lest he lay some claim to these lands."

Enrique absorbed his uncles knowledge and nodded, finally setting the letter down. He was glad to have his uncle. The Cortes he could not yet trust, they were all servants of his mother, not men that he knew well spending most of his time with his father away from the capital. The king sought their guidance sparsely, and when he did only to appease them. He knew that would have to change, but he could think of no one to bring into his closest circle, and he was certain they would try to forestall their dismissal. Putting those more difficult thoughts to rest the boy reached for his quill and began to pen a response to the man Renè. As his pen began to draw across the paper Sancho walked confidently out of the room, certain that he had taught his nephew something.

 

[Fireblade]

Another letter arrives from Naples.

"Unto his Majesty, Enrique, King of Castile and Leon,

It pleases me immensely to see the wisdom in your letter. For too long, the only dealings I have had with Iberians have been the insane ramblings of the Greek and his cronies. To see a letter with thought within it from your Majesty is like the first day of spring, like a man brought back to life.

Your mother (God rest her Soul) and myself were indeed allies. I see no reason why I cannot do the same with your Majesty. Naples can be a strong friend of Castile, just as Castile can be a strong friend of Naples. If your Majesty will permit, I wish to send a man to your court, after the current unpleasantries with the Greek are concluded. Matters of friendship must be discussed, along with matters of dynastic union. Several of my daughters, your Majesty, are of marriagable age, and one of them would prove to be an excellent wife to your Majesty.

As for now, know this, King Enrique - you have a friend in myself, and I shall not act against your interests in the Aragonese matter, the most pressing issue for both Crowns for the moment.

Given in Naples,

-René, King of Naples"

 

[Lord E]

A letter arrives from Paris

Dear cousin, Enrique IV, Rey de Castilla y Leon

It pleases my heart to once again received news from Castile, and hear that your courts are once against open to the world. But it saddens my heart to hear of the death of your mother, my aunt, Elionore. She was a great woman and a glorious ruler, so I offer me deepest condolences. My mother, your aunt, Yolande also sends her best greetings to her nephew, and her deepest condolences upon hearing of the death of your mother.

France and Castile has always worked close together and been good friends. I hope that we are able to continue the relationship which has been so good, also in the future.
The last months rumours from Iberia have scared us, and therefore it is good to know that Castile have come out of isolation to once again work with the world. I am sure you have already heard about the war on my borders between Navarre and Constantine, the Greek, of Aragon. This war scares me, for now King likes to see armies so close to his own lands, also lately Constantine has stated his wishes to conquer the lands of Rene d’Anjou. Rene being of my family and the Anjou family being great landowners and vassals of France this conflict have also been dragged into my lands and my court, and I do not like that. I see that Constantine might see that he has some rights on Naples, at least according to him, but as far as France and I see it Rene is the ruler of the realm, and the one with the best claims on the lands. France is prepared to support her fellow French against aggression, and I am ready to aid my family, but France have just fought a long and bitter war , and the prisoners as still being ransomed from Bohemian dungeons, so France have no way to go to war against Aragon.
But this is a matter that it is very important for us be able to hold a little control over for a war on our borders and with our family might well grow and posses a treaty to both our realms. Therefore I would like to ask you cousin what your stance are on the issue?
I think you have already understood the stance of France, and I hope that we might be able to see a stance from Castile who is not so different from our own.

Written in Louvre, Paris in the year of our Lord 1448

With love your cousin

His Most Christian Majesty Louis the eleventh, by the Grace of God King of France, Head of the House of Valois, Overlord of Provence, protector of Provence and Bourbonnais, Count of Beckingshire, Lord of Asti and knight Order of the Garter

 

[AugCaesar]

Valladolid, Great Hall of Peñafiel

The hot days of summer had quickly become cold in the north of Iberia, and the frigid air found assembled, in Enrique IV's great fortress, the greatest grandees of Castile. The Cortes. The King had spent many weeks in counsel with Sancho, and in meetings with various nobles and candidates for Enrique's favor. Finally after much politicking and plotting the new Cortes was chosen and today the old would be dismissed. Enrique sat at the head of the large table, his uncle Sancho setting proudly at his side, next to him his son Juan, not long Marshall of Castile. There was an unusual proliferation of guards at the meeting this day to discourage any outbursts or attacks, and the King himself wore at his side a dagger and sword. The other men at the table with him had long served his mother, and grown accustomed to their power, most of them would now lose it. The quiet murmurs of the men died down and Enrique cast his gaze aroudn the table eyeing all of them, taking in their cold gazes unemotionally. Finally he spoke, loud and formally.

"Loyal subjects, servants of my mother, and now I, you have done great service for Castile y León. For that we, owe you much, though you can not say that your rewards have not been great. Many of you now grow old, I can see that you must beg for a peaceful retirement." Enrique smirked devilishly as his words were greeted with a low grumbling.

"As such I have arranged that none here shall wont of anything, nore shall their heirs." The young King raised his hand above his head and an armed guard came quickly to the table bearing five scrolls, he handed them quickly to the members of the Cortes, only Juan de Sessa, and Juan Garcia de Sevilla, Canciller de Granada receiving nothing. The men grudgingly unfurled the papers as the King began again to speak,

"Those, are your parting gifts from your King, you should all find such ample additions to your estates...most generous I should think, and I know that these new lands shall keep you occupied and far from my court here in Valladolid." The men's reactions were mixed, some smiled contentedly assured of a life of leisure, while some, namely the younger of the group burned and fumed barely able to mask their disgust for this young King who would rob them of their hard earned power. Juan Garcia de Sevilla, was a man in his thirties, energetic and capable he held the unenviable job of governing Granada, and the unruly subjects therein. Only he continued to look puzzeled as he had received nothing, and Enrique quickly noticed his distress.

"You two, who have received nothing...that is only because you shall continue in my service, and for that more lands, estates and titles shall do you no good." Juan Garcia's face brightened and he set back more easily in his chair, oblivious to the burnng glances of his ex-peers. Sancho who had said nothing till then finally spoke, quietly and to the King alone.

"Majesty, shall we now convene the first meeting of YOUR Cortes?" Enrique nodded, and taking queue the old warrior Sancho de Sessa rose and motioned to the guards who came to the sides of the dismissed nobles, they rose helpless of their fate, and were addressed by their King, some for the last time.

"Go with God, Your Lordships, and my you find peace in solace in the comforts of an easier life. I shall pray for all of you, and remember your families great service to this throne."

There was no time for response as the men were quickly ushered out of the castle and sent towards their homes. Each were accompanied by a group of the King's guards halfway to their destinations and then left to make their way alone. Enrique would not mourn if they happened to be set upon by bandits in their voyage, and he prayed that his actions on this day would not haunt him in the future.

When the men were all out, and most of the guards gone as well Enrique rose, and with him did Juan de Sessa, and his father, along with Juan Garcia de Sevilla. Enrique embraced them all like brothers, not even noticing the shadowy figure hiding in the rooms corner. If he had looked hard he would made out a pair of vengeful eyes fixed on him alone, but he did not and oblivious to the pure hatred shed upon him by that dark figure he sat back down and looked to the paper on the table before him. Sancho first began to speak,

"Lord, I am pleased with today's results, though we must remain vigilant. I have ordered agents to be sent to the estates of your mother's Cortes, save Juan Garcia who remains here with us. Perhaps now we shall tell our noble friend whom else shall be amongst his company during your long reign?"

Enrique nodded and then fixed his gaze on Juan Garcia.

"Noble lord, I should first like to say that you remain here only because you have proved most capable, and dilligent in your duties in Granada. It can not be easy to govern so many Moors, and ones so recently conquered as they, and in that you have performed admirably." The King's smile faded and he continued wryly, "But know that I can say nothing of your loyalty to me, other than that to my face you would claim it, earn my trust and I shall never had need to replace you, as I did those men today. I have brought you into my counsel, an honor that few deserve, or obtain, I only ask that you earn it."

Juan Garcia shifted uncomfortably in his seat as he spoke, his dark brown eyes shifting restlessly. When the King was done he composed himself a bit and answered solemnly, "Majesty, I shall not swear my undying faith and loyalty to you my Lord, for it is assumed, I can only pledge that I shall serve you as I served your father and mother before you, and with God work to expand your glory on this Earth."

Enrique only nodded at the man's response and then pushed a paper towards him, "these are the men that shall join you at this glorious table. I am certain you have at least heard of them. I will put my trust in them as I do in you, and I expect that all of you can do the same for eachother, for I need candide and sage advisers...not a squabbling mess. Now go with God Juan Garcia, we shall all truly meet for the first time in one weeks time."

Juan Garcia rose, and bowed to his King and peers, then quickly strode from the room as he did he overlooked the paper Enrique had given him, and comitted to memory the names of the men that were forever more tied to his fate.



Mayordomo - Sancho, Duque de Sessa
Canciller de Castile - Alexo, Conde de Hurrutia
Canciller de Leon - Alonso Fernandes del Rincon, Marques del Rincon
Canciller de Granada - Juan Garcia de Sevilla
Almojarife Mayor - Pedro de Oñate
Justicia Mayor - Juan Gutierres, Conde de la Riba
Alferez - Juan de Sessa

 

[Lord E]

A letter arrives from Paris

Dear cousin Enrique

I am glad to hear these words from you, for I have always had great confidence in Castile under your father and mother, and now I understand that I can have the same trust and confidence with you. For this I am very happy, and I will pray to the almighty Lord that it will keep like this in the future.

I know that none of us want war, but if it is necessary we must all stand up and fight for what we believe in, and what we see as the right cause. I understand that it was with different feelings that you sent such an ultimatum to Constantine, but I am afraid that it was the only right thing to do for I fear that power and might is the only language Constantine really understands. Let us pray he will understand what you try to tell him, and that the conflict won’t grow, but should it happen that any such event should happen I am sure that the Almighty Lord will keep his hand over us and lead our rightful fight.

Remember Enrique a King must always be willing to stand up to his obligations, and he must show that he is able to use force if it should be necessary. He should not use force just to destroy for his own winning or lust like some Heathen from the east, but he must always use it when it is necessary and when he is forced to.

Please do send a man here to Paris, I assure you he will receive a great welcoming and I am sure he will like Paris.

Written in Louvre, Paris

With love
Your Cousin Louis King of France

 

[AugCaesar]

The Great Hall of Peñafiel Castle, Castilla

A bright cloudless night had descended over the fortress of Enrique IV, Rey de Castile y León, and it was assisted in its illumination by the many torches that still burned around the castle. It was well into the night when the last of the Cortes members finally arrived at the castle and the King insisted that they meet immediately. The grandees of Castile could be heard mumbling as they shuffled in aware that they would be in meeting for some hours and weary of the days travel prior. Alexo de Hurrutia, now Canciller de Castilla, looked the most displeased, his clothes still dusty from his long voyage from Valencia. Sancho assured Enrique that it was best for the King to meet these men, as such. To show them his power and his dominance. As a young man, who some would call a boy Enrique knew that would be his biggest stepping stone, a lack of respect. The men were all seated and ceased their mumbling before finally Sancho rose, and addressed them.

"Nobles, Friends, Lords of the Cortes, I am grateful for your safe arrival, and sorry to convene you so late," He averted his eyes downard, and said somberly, "But it is the King's will."

"The King's will be done!" Chimed in the young and enthusiastic Pedro de Oñate, Treasurer of Castile. He was answered by the labored looks of his companions who he continued to ignore as he beemed proudly about the hall.

"Indeed," Sancho continued, amused, "You all know why we are hence assembled, so I shall not labor you with speaches, but present to you your King!"

As Sancho gestured with his arms the doors to the hall were flung open making way for a cadre of gloriously adorned guards, the foremost two bearing the standards of Castile y León and the House of Trastamara.

"ALL BEAR WITNESS TO HIS MOST CATHOLIC MAJESTY!" A burly guard bellowed from the group, and after a dramatic paused continued with a flourish,

"REY ENRIQUE IV!"

The guards dropped to their knees, heads bowed as the young King appeared in the great doorway. The men at the table quickly stood and for the first time for most of them, they looked on Enrique as a King, their King. He was not unimpressive. Tall for a young man his age he stood higher than many men, and the prostrate guards around him made him look all the larger. As most youths his tall frame was lightly filled, but the grand clothes and heavy robes that adorned him falsely portrayed a largeness of body. It was his soft, boyish face that most belied his age and inexperience, and upon it rested uneasily a look of royalty. For all his preparation and effort to appear the conquering and mighty King Enrique felt intimidated as he came ever closer to his servants, striding slowly and deliberately. They all fixed their eyes on his, and he wanted nothing more than to run away from their varying, but always critical glances. Finally he came by them and then to the tables end where his chair, raised ever so slightly from the ground on a predesigned platform awaited him. Fighting his desire to run off and hide he stood erect before his seat and one by one eyed the men, some for the first time. They were a noble, and weary group, and after an affirming nod to all of them he sat, and they joined him.

"Noble Lords," Enrique began his lip quavering ever so slightly as they fixed again their eyes on him. Was this what being King was, he wondered. Never alone, or free, always judged? "I thank you for your presence here on such short notice, but my mother has been gone for some time, and this great kingdom can not for long rest on its laurels, it has already done so for too long. This night it stops, and you all shall be the adjudicators of my law, the deliverers of my justice, defenders of my honor, and blades of my sweeping sword." Several of the men nodded as the King spoke and Enrique was emboldened by his own words, his face stiffening and his eyes returning more fiercely his subject's gazes. "Their will be rewards for your loyalty, and also hardship. It is as God ordains, and I as his earthly vessel do abide that we shall in all our doings serve The Almighty. I ask now for your oath on that."

The men answered in unison, "Si, en el nombre de dios, juramos."

Enrique only looked on sternly then continued, beginning to feel his own power in his voice and body, "And in all the days and years that Our Lord God does breath life into us his servants we shall serve Castile y León. And you its King, your Lord in life as is God your lord in the afterlife. Swear this now!" The young King's voice rose to a bellow as he finished and his answer came quickly and loudly,

"Si, en el nombre de dios, juramos."

The old warrior, Sancho uncle to the King sat in amazement, as the room fell silent. It could not be the same quivering boy he had come to only weeks ago. This same boy that he had only moments before meeting him decided that he would not kill. This was the first he saw that made him feel his decision was right. Perhaps his nephew would be a good king, more a man this his pusstule of a father. He looked up just as Enrique turned and addressed him.

"Surely you are all familiar with the noble Duque de Sessa, my uncle and Steward. Lord?"

"Ahh yes," Sancho began, stammering abit, still in awe of his nephew, "Thank you majesty." He coughed and then shuffled through the papers before him well aware that his plan to awe the Cortes with the King had worked even on him. "We have all been lax in the time since Elionor's passing, as such we face many issues. The King's cousin in Navarra is under siege by the Greek in Aragón, the King's cousin Juan, King of England, is embroiled in a civil war, we have heard nothing and fear for the worst. To our south, as always are the Moors, who seem of late resurgent, would they dare try a campaign back into our lands? The King seeks your wisdom, on what issue shall we first speak?"

The answer came quickly, and from the youngest of the tables members. Sancho's son Juan de Sessa, the King's Marshall,

"Aragón..."

All eyes fixed on him as the word lingered throughouth the silent hall.

 

[unmerged(2461)]

An English merchant, William Ufford is a popular businessman in the ports and wharves of the north coast of Castille due to the prosperity his custom has brought there. Brightly dressed head to foot in fine, ostentatious, colourful silks, and looking the picture of rude health, he marches briskly into the court of the Castillian King and bows with a smile to King Enrique. Clearly, the man is completely unawares of the potentially frosty relationship between King Enrique and King Edmund.

In a booming voice, William Ufford shouts several greetings to courtiers he recognises from past dealings, and hands a letter to a servant, to be given to King Enrique, cheerily slapping the lowly courtier on the back and nearly sending the Spaniard sprawling. Having done this, Ufford politely takes his leave to chase up whatever other business has brought him to Vallalodid.

Enrique of Castille,

It is a shame that you cannot accept the legitimacy of my claim to the throne, which is stronger and more valid than any of the House of Lancaster by right of descent. I hope to prove this much by gaining the church's blessing in the coming months.

You fill your letter with threats and insults and follow these by overtures of friendship. Forgive me, but, as I sit here writing, I am hardly driven to pursue more cordial relations with your house with that precedent set.

It falls to me yet again, though, to be the bearer of bad tidings. As I was compelled to write to King Carlos of Navarre only a few days hence, young John Lancaster has sadly died, stricken by the bloody flux. My physicians did all they could to save him, but I am afraid John was too far consumed by poisoned humours and other such medical concerns to which I am not privy.

Despite your unfettered hatred, I would not wish the loss of a close family member in this fashion upon you and you have the sympathies of the House of Plantagenet in this difficult time.

By his own hand at Windsor Castle,

Edmund Rex

 

[unmerged(23474)]

"To the Boy-King of Castile and Leon;

Your mother was indeed Matriarch of the House of Trastamara, which included the House of Paleologus-Achaea. However, I know of no such law that makes her sixteen year old son Patriarch. I offered reasonable peace to Navarre several times. It is your cousin who declared a state of war against me, not I to him. He demands I go to Rome, as if it is any of his concern. Rome has not requested my presence, instead they sent an English Cardinal to Barcelona.

I admire your opinion and your passion, your Majesty, but for as long as the Navarrese make demands and claims to my throne, which your own Mother acknowledged as mine, I will do no such thing.

He refuses a return to the prewar borders with no conditions. He makes demands, and offers no concessions.

As of now, there will be no peace.

The treaty with your Mother, God rest her soul, said nothing of Navarre.

Signed,

Emperor Constantine XI of the House of Achaea
Caesar of Eastern Rome, Defender of the Catholic Faith;
King of Aragon, Jerusalem, Naples, Navarra, Sicily, etc."​

 

[unmerged(23474)]

"To Enrique, whom I refered to as the Boy-King of Castile and Leon;

Do you wish I call you something other than the age of sixteen? If you wish, I will lie and address you as the twenty-two year old King of Castile and Leon, but regardless, that will not change the facts.

Just as I cannot change --- nor can you change --- your young age, Neither of us can change what has happened in the past.

In your letter, you took the defense of Carlos and claimed that the reason for his attack on Aragon was to defend Castile. While partially true, he also did it because I refused to acknowledge his absurd claims.

Just as you can claim to be the King of Aragon, and the King of Naples can claim to be King of Aragon, his claims are no greater or less than yours.

I will not acknowledge him as anything more than one of the many who wish to attain one of my fiefdoms.

As for my wishes to return to peace, my demands are simple: He will sign -- in writing -- an agreement never to pursue his claims to the throne of Aragon.

He has been written into the legal documents which will be opened upon my death as secondary heir to the throne of Aragon.

My primary heir and successor being your cousin, the Self-proclaimed King of Sicily in Palermo.

As for what you proclaimed as 'the disaster we are on the brink of'

I should hope that you did not suggest that would mean war between our two realms. Just as you claim to be Patriarch of the House of Trastamara through inheritance of your mother's titles, You have also inherited her treaties. the Iberian Compromise treaty states that there will be no war between Aragon and Castile-Leon for another three or so years after the current date...

And before you suggest that the war with Navarre cancels that treaty, need I remind you that the war with Navarre began before the treaty was signed, and therefore, you have no legal right to pursue war with Aragon.

I, too, seek peace, and I will go to Valencia, Apulia, Hibernia, Scania, or even Siberia in order to attain a fair peace.

I will give in to no demands from Carlos, as he is in no position to make any.

May your reign be long and honorable.

Signed,

Emperor Constantine XI of the House of Achaea
Caesar of Eastern Rome, Defender of the Catholic Faith;
King of Aragon, Jerusalem, Naples, Navarra, Sicily, etc."​

 

[Lord E]

A man enters the court room. He is dressed in the finest clothes from Paris, and his servant is wearing the seal of France. The man walks forward and bows deep for the King.

“Noble Enrique. King of Castile and Leon.
I am Joan d Montpellier, Comte d Reuilly., and I have been sent here by my King, your cousin, His Majesty the King of France to act as ambassador from France to Castile, should Your Majesty choose to accept me?

His Majesty sends his warmest and best greetings to Your Majesty, and he hopes that France and Castile will continue their good co- operation from the past also in the future.”

 

[unmerged(2461)]

The lively William Ufford returns to King Enrique's court!

He bows and in his lusty, booming voice speaks thus,

"Well, Your Majesty, it would seem pickings in Vallalodid are rich indeed! I've set up business in your city, so it looks as if I'll be in town for a while.

"Looks like word's got back to London about my stay in the city, and King Edmund's paying me to act as an emissary to yer court! What say you, Majesty? Room for an old rogue like me here?

"Any how, I've got this letter which Edmund sent over. Give it to this fellow here, shall I?"

Ufford grabs the nearest courtier by the arm and stuffs a rolled parchment into the man's hand.

"Well, don't stand there gawping man!" Ufford, hands on hips, berates the courtier, "Give it to yer King!"

Ufford turns to the Castillian king with a cheeky grin, "I don't know, Majesty. Servants. Sometimes you wonder why you're paying them!"

Your Majesty,

I should gladly seize the opportunity to bury any hostilities between Castille and England. A war between our two great realms would prove disastrous for both. It is better for all Christendom that we do what we do now, and heal with the pen, rather than rend with the sword.

The ties of which you speak with England have grown weaker through the death of John, but they are by no means entirely severed. The houses of Lancaster and York, despite their common animosity with each other, are related via our mutual descent from our past king, Edward III. This would suggest to me that, through your familial bond with John, you share a distant link to my house. When my feud with the errant house of Lancaster is at an end, I should enjoy taking the opportunity of exploring our bonds with each other.

I accept your offer of friendship and reciprocate in kind. A successful conclusion of the war within my domains will open the opportunity for closer political cooperation, and I look forward to the day of its coming.

By his own hand at Windsor Castle,

Edmund Rex