Historia Quod Britonum

[Rabbit55821]

Historia Quod Britonum
The History of the Britons


Praesens. Futurum. Quorum Praeteritum. The Future is everchanging, the Present is changeable, and the Past can be stirred. Nothing is concrete. Everything can be changed by the actions of one. But who will take up the mantle, and change everything?


Table of Contents

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Act I - Guardians
Praesens I
Futurum I
Chapter I - Northumbrian Ambition
Chapter II - A New Era
Chapter III - Chaos and Order
Chapter IV - The Holy Lands
Chapter V - The Derby Rebellions
Futurum II
Chapter VI - The War of the Witan
Chapter VII - A Child Named Tyranny
Chapter VIII - The Last Days of a King

Characters

House of Leofricson

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Duke Morcar I Leofricson/1028 - 1084/Reign: 1065 - 1084
King Thored I Leofricson/1070 - 1116/Reign: 1084 - 1116
King Ealdred I Leofricson/1088 - Living/Reign: 1117 - Ongoing

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AAR Info

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

(Updated 5/26/16)

Chapters Types
- Historia Quod Britonum: The Standard, History Book Style Chapters
- Quorum Praeteritum: Take place between HQB Posts, and tell the tale of events that occur in the HQB Timeline
- Futurum: Tell the tale of our timeline, but beginning in 2046. Is Time Travel really a good thing?
- Praesens: These begin in 1968, and tell the tale of Edwin Adamson, the author of Historia Quod Britonum

Posting Rates
- Futurum Chapters: One per 5 Standard Chapters
- Praesens Chapters: One at the Beginning and End of an Act (Act Five is made entirely of Praesens Chapters)

What is this?
This AAR is what I call a combination of both a History Book-AAR and a Narrative-AAR. It is broken up into several different Chapters Types, which tell different stories that will eventually connect. Each game makes up an Act, save for Act Five which is made up entirely of "Praesens" Chapters. This AAR is based on my experiences throughout four different games; Crusader Kings(the first one), Europa Universalis 3, Victoria 2, and Hearts of Iron 3, with all associated DLC.

[Rabbit55821]

Act I
Guardians

[Rabbit55821]

Praesens I
Late Fall, 1968

Edwin Adamson smiled as a servant opened the door to the White Palace. He had been waiting for this day for many months, and now it was finally here. "Edwin Adamson. I'm here to see my Uncle." said Edwin.

The servant nodded. Edwin noticed that the servant's skin was a little...darker, perhaps, then most people in the British Isles, like one of the men from India. No wonder​ he is a servant. As soon as the thought entered his mind, he scolded himself for thinking like a Luthorist.

The excited young man followed the servant through the large mansion, up to the door of his Uncle's study. Edwin was impatient as the servant knocked on the door. Now that he thought about it, he could have sworn he had heard two voices in the room. "Yes?" came his Uncle's voice.

"Sir Richard, Edwin Adamson is here to see you." said the dark-skinned man.

"Ah, thank you James. Send my Nephew in please."

The servant, James, opened the door and gestured for Edwin to enter. The room's walls were covered with book cases. Edwin's Uncle Richard Adamson was sitting behind his desk, while another man sat in a small chair on the opposite side of the desk from Richard.

As soon as Edwin entered, the door closed behind him. He gave a curious look to the man sitting across from his Uncle Richard, before taking a seat next to him. "Good evening, Uncle Richard."

Richard smiled. "Good evening, Edwin. May I introduce you to Lord Jack Tempest?"

Edwin looked at the man next to him. "Hello, Lord Tempest." said Edwin, extending a hand.

Jack Tempest shook Edwin's hand. "Good evening. Your Uncle has already told me much about you. I here you plan to write a book?"

Edwin nodded, glancing at his Uncle. "Indeed, I plan to write a history of Britain. The book, if my Uncle agrees to publish it, will be called Historia Quod Britonum."

Richard gave a short nod. "About that, I have reviewed what you sent in, and it is quite good, actually. I will agree to publish it, but on one condition. You will let Jack help you in your research. He knows far more then any average man, even for a historian, of history, and I believe his knowledge could help you immensely."

Edwin glanced at Lord Tempest, before giving a short nod. "I have no problem with allowing Jack to aid me, if you will allow me to publish."

"Then I suppose it is settled then. I will send you the appropriate paperwork later today."

After several more minutes of conversation, Edwin and Jack left the White Palace, and Edwin's face was illuminated with joy.

[Rabbit55821]

Futurum I
Early Summer, 2046

"A single butterfly in the wrong time can change the course of history. Even if it dies almost immediately after it's appearance in a different time, that butterfly can completely change everything that has ever happened in history as we know it. Imagine sending people back, if a butterfly can change everything. What could a person change?"


Aiden Braun had said those words many times to investors. More then he could count, in fact. But now he wasn't saying those words, as there were no need for words at all right now. He gazed at the massive machine in front of him, one that had been the source of a massive amount of work for nearly three years. But now it was done. The Tempus Rota was constructed.


Aiden Braun's good friend, Luke Tempest, was standing next to him. In a matter of a few short months, he would be sent back in time. But there were a lot of things to be decided on before then. When would he go to? Would he be allowed to go there? Would the project be shut down? And in short, why?


The Moral dispute had already been set aside during the first months. The Omega Event had provided a completely understandable reason for the project. Not only would time-travelling exploits not effect this world, as it had been proven that time travelling would create a point of diversion that would create an alternate timeline not affecting their own, but they would also be able to study history, and maybe eventually send people to talk to some of the greatest minds in history, in an effort to stop the Omega Event.


Or maybe they would be able to create a world in which the Omega Event never occurred, a world in which the instantaneous death of two billion people never happened. With all the talk about avoiding or stopping the Omega Event, it was ironic that the Butterfly Project had been successful because of the particles created by the Omega Event.


"Have you learned anything about when I'm going to get sent back to?" asked Luke.


"No, but as soon as I found out anything you will be the first to know. " answered Aiden.


Luke nodded. He was very determined when it came to the Butterfly Project. He wanted to stop the Omega Event, no matter what it took. "Do you think it will work?"


Aiden gave that question a bit of thought before answering. They couldn't exactly run tests on the machine, so it was all very questionable. If it didn't work though, Luke would more then like die. "I hope so."


The two friends exchanged solemn glances. Three years had passed, and yet their work was just beginning.

[Alwyn]

Great start! Good luck with your new AAR! I am interested to see how you will use different games to produce this AAR.

[Rabbit55821]

Chapter I
Northumbrian Ambition
1066 AD - 1076 AD

Recovered Helmet of Morcar the Fierce

England had undergone a massive change. William the Usurper and his Norman allies had taken the throne of England, and enforced change on England. Most of the nobility in Southern England were replaced with Franks, while patriotism still stirred in the hearts of the natives. Morcar the Fierce and Edwin the Bold were both concentrated sources of much Saxon patriotism, and were themselves resistant to the new Norman rule in England.

Despite this, Morcar took precaution when it came to open resistance against William the Usurper, as he knew that despite the predominantly Anti-Norman views of the English population, King William had been smart in replacing most of the Southern English Aristocracy. He was also allied with King Phillipe of France. Morcar often counseled caution to his elder brother Edwin, who had an intense desire to rebel against the new Norman regime.

However, there were many years separating King William's coronation and the restoration of an Anglo-Saxon England, and as this is a book not centering on the disputes between Normans and Anglo-Saxons of England, but on the entirety of English history in all it's magnificence. However, we will primarily follow Morcar the Fierce, as it is his lineage, the Leofricsons, who would change England.

In Mid-January, Duke Morcar Leofricson of Northumbreland was married to Margaret Atheling, a 22-year old woman from the Court of King Malcolm of Scotland. The intent of the marriage was both to improve relations with the King of Scotland (in case Scottish aid would be needed in a future conflict), as well as to acquire the well known skills of espionage that Margaret was known to have.

It was naught but five months before Margaret and Morcar were informed that they would have a child within several months. Morcar and Margaret were both known to have been rejoiced by this news, and this began a loving relation between the two.

A daughter named Wulfthryth was born to Morcar and Margaret in March of 1068, and only two months later Margaret was announced to be pregnant yet again. Upon the topic of the birth of Wulthryth, Morcar wrote this in one of his journals, of which he held multiple;

" My brother Edwin has spoken many times about the joys of having children. While I previously viewed children simply as the duty of a man and wife to further their line, I now see what my brother spoke off. When I look into the eyes of my first child, I am filled with joy. A joy I wish I could bottle up and preserve for the dark days of war. "

And war did soon follow, as Morcar laid claim to the title Count of Cumberland and declared war upon the Duke of Galloway, believing Cumberland to be a natural extension of the Duchy of Northumbreland, in July. Morcar invaded with a personally lead force of a little under 3,000 men. Estimates range between 2,400 men and 2,800 men, although historical accounts indicate more towards 2,600.

In August, Morcar was able to secure a claim upon the title of King of England. While he already had a claim on the title in the eyes of his people, Morcar now had a Pope-recognized claim. This an even more intense strain on relations between Morcar and William, but neither sought an all-out war.

Later in the month, Morcar and his army arrived in Cumberland, and defeated the 200 men guarding the province. Maldred of Atholl, Duke of Galloway, arrived in early September with an army of four-hundred soldiers, who were quickly defeated by Morcar.

Back in Northumbreland, farming techniques saw a improvement in early November. However, this was soon overshadowed by the arrival of William Bruce, Marshal of England, and Gospatrick, Count of Berwick, in Cumberland. A battle was commenced between the two armies, but the battle ended within seven days.

Aethelwin of York, the Spy Master of Northumbreland, died during the Battle of Cumberland. He had accompanied Morcar, along with much of the Northumbrian Court. However, his death was not in vain, as Cumberland was occupied and was integrated into Northumbreland. Morcar arrived back in Court in late November, dismissing his assembled army and exiting the war by making peace with King Malcolm. He also assigned Margaret as the new Spy Master of Northumbreland, while granting the title Count of Cumberland to Oswald de Cherlton, a Saxon in his court, as a vassal.

With the withdrawal of Duchy of Northumbreland and Morcar's armies from the War of Cumberland, most of King William and King Phillipe's armies were left laying siege to Scottish territories. As can be proved by several of Morcar's personal journals, he disputed with himself over whether the time was right to strike against William the Usurper and his Frankish allies. However, Morcar decided against it, believing that he could not take his armies south to campaign while William's armies were right above his Duchy.

In February, Margaret gives birth to Eadwine Leofricson, another daughter for Morcar. Morcar did not interact with his second daughter as much as he did his first, and most of Eadwine's early life was spent living with Monks to develop a religious education. Wulfthryth, however, was given an education by a variety of local nobles, until she gained the position of Countess.

By July, Margaret and Morcar were expecting yet another child. This would be their first son, named Thored, who was born in April of 1070. By May, Scotland had made peace with it's enemies, and before the month was over Margaret and Morcar were expecting their fourth and final child. Agatha was born in March of 1071 AD, and would be the final child the two had.

In October, Duke Morcar gave the title of Countess of Westmorland to his daughter Wulfthryth, who had still not reached majority yet. In November, Morcar and Margaret were informed they would be having a fifth child, but this was not to be. Margaret died in labor in July of 1072 AD, and the child died as well. Morcar experienced a period of depression, but recovered within a few months. Morcar remarried again in October, this time to Anabella Bruce, Spy Master of the County of Berwick, with the permission of Gospatrick of Atholl, Count of Berwick. This marriage was purely a political one, and Anebella was assigned as Spy Master of Northumbreland.

While the previous years had been quiet and peaceful both for England and Northumbreland, save for the death of Margaret, things were about to become much more violent. This begun in February of 1073, when Oswald de Cherlton, Count of Cumberland, died and was replaced by Burgred de Cherlton, his brother. In May, Morcar claimed the title of Count of the Isle of Man, and declares war on the Count of the Isle of Man, Amalgein Ui Mordha.

Morcar and Edwin plan their upcoming Battle

Morcar did not arrive with his army on the Isle of Man until September, where Edwin, Morcar's brother and Duke of Lancaster, was already present. The two then defeated the army of around 600 Irishmen present, before taking the Isle of Man and integrating it into his Duchy in the beginning of the year 1074.

Duke Morcar then gave the County to his daughter Wulfthryth, before returning to Northumbreland. In April, Morcar decided to formalize Eadwine's ecclesiastical education, and letting his daughter Agatha be raised by servants and nannies. In October, Siege Engines became much more refined in Northumbreland, and this inspired Morcar, now known as Morcar the Fierce, to an army to Dublin to end the war more officially, having already accomplished his goal but still being at war with the Duchy of Leinster.

Morcar the Fierce and his army arrives in Dublin in April, and begin the siege of Dublin. The territory comes under Morcar's control by September, and he marches south to Laigin along with William Bruce. The War of the Isle of Man ends officially on the 14th of January, 1076 AD.

By now, Duke Morcar is known as a fierce and proud ruler, but by this point he was still no closer to driving out the Franks. Only time would tell if he would accomplish his goals before his death.

[Rabbit55821]

Quorum Praeteritum I
Early Winter, 1068 AD

"Are the horses ready?"

"Keep your weapons sharp!"

"I don't know if I can do this! I'm a farmer!"

"Practice your formations!"

"How many shields have we got?"

These were the shouts that Morcar Leofricson heard all around him as he observed the camp from his horse. William Bruce had arrived two days ago, and had sent out cavalry to antagonize Count Gospatrick until the two armies could flank him. Morcar, Aethelwin, and William of Durham were all sitting upon their steeds, riding threw the camp to both improve morale and to make sure everything as going smoothly. In only a few short days, they would all be charging into battle against the Scots, some of the bravest warriors in the Isles.

"Where will the Saxon Guard be during the battle?" asked William of Durham. William had always been a bit of an outsider, being the only Frank in an otherwise Saxon Court, but was especially more so of one due to the cultural feud raging in England now, with the new Norman King.

"That depends on what formation they assume, but they will surely be in the thick of things." answered Morcar.

Aethelwin was silent. For the past day he had been in deep thought, which was odd as he usually loved to talk. Although, most of his talking was games, as Morcar had learned. The pair had developed a friendship during the battle against Maldred and his men, but even without that, Morcar could've told that something was wrong.

Morcar thought for a moment, and then decided how he would deal with the situation. "William, take a patrol and try and learn the terrain of where we plan to ambush Gospatrick."

The Marshal nodded, seemingly pleased that he finally had an actual task. "Right away, m'lord." And with that, William took off riding, calling for a group of men to join him. Morcar looked at Aethelwin and raised a slight eyebrow. "Aethelwin, dismount and meet me in my tent."

Aethelwin looked up, a bit startled if one asked the Duke, and nodded. Aethelwin entered Morcar's tent several minutes later, where Morcar sat sipping from a silver cup. "Aethelwin, where's your head at?" asked Morcar.

Aethelwin shot Morcar a confused look as he sat down. "What do you mean, m'lord?"

Morcar sighed. "For the past day, you've been in quite a deep thought. Tell me why this is."

It was the Spy Master's turn to sigh, and he did. "It's just, I saw something very strange the other day, and I wonder if it was a sign from God." said Aethelwin, before pausing.

"Please, do continue."

"Well, while I was checking the chain we set up, a butterfly appeared, but not like any butterfly I've ever seen. But nearly as soon as I saw it, it disappeared, but then it reappeared a few feet away. And when I looked up at the hill, there was a man there to. I couldn't make out anything but his silhouette, but he seemed to flicker in and out of existence as well. I've been entranced in deep thought ever since, trying to think of why God might send this Flickering Man and the Butterfly to me."

Morcar scratched his chin. Now he himself was deep in thought, both confused and astonished. "Please tell me if this Flickering Man appears to you again, or if anybody sees an event like the one you have witnessed. But there is surely no way we can lose, is there?"

Aethelwin sighed. "The Bible warns us against Pride."

The Duke nodded. "Indeed it does..."

[Rabbit55821]

Quorum Praeteritum II
Early Winter, 1068 AD

Morcar watched as the Scottish Calvary charged towards his position. Or rather, his direction. The Scots had no idea that Morcar and his Saxon Guard were hidden, lying in wait for them to charge into the Chain trap William Bruce had recommended that they set up. It had been a smart idea, albeit one that Morcar had originally thought far-fetched. Right now, though, he didn't have the luxury of decision.

As the Scottish Calvary came within about 20 feet of the chain trap, their intent being to circle around and flank William Bruce, Morcar shouted the order. A 100-foot long chain was suddenly 5 feet in the air, and there were nothing the Scots could do to stop themselves from charging straight into. As Scots were thrown from their horses, Morcar let out a battlecry, and the Saxon Guard charged forward.

Within moments, Morcar was on top of a Scotsman, pulling his sword out of the man's skull. All around him, Scots scrambled to their feet as crazed Saxon Warriors piled on top of them with axes and a taste for blood. But this was only one part of the battle, as all around the huge valley soldiers fought and died for their leaders.

The Duke raised his shield as a spear was thrust threw the air towards him. The spear bounced off of his shield, and he then knocked it aside, striking the spear from an angle with his shield as he came in for the kill with his sword. Within seconds, his blade was covered with more blood as it ripped through the throat of a Scottish soldier.

Threw the frenzy, Morcar could see more Scots rushing to this side of the fight to reinforce and possibly save their cavalry. This thought was pushed aside, however, as Morcar's immediate attention was diverted to an incoming axe. Morcar brought his armored head down, and the one-handed axe collided with the top of his helmet, sending it flying off but avoiding any serious damage to Morcar's skull. The Duke then jumped forward, tackling the foe in front of him, before amputating the man's hand.

The Duke stumbled to his feet and thrust forward his sword into the chest of his foe. As Morcar withdrew his blade, blood spewed everywhere as the body fell to the ground. He then yelled for a retreat back to the treeline as dozens of undazed, unconfused Scottish soldiers joined their part of the overall fight. But as the Scots chased the Saxon Guard back to the woods, a little over a hundred armored Knights appeared in the treeline, charging the Scots. Morcar didn't like William Bruce for his loyalties and ethnicity, but he loved him for his strategic brilliance.

The Duke turned around and watched as the Knights scattered the Scots, and then he and his Saxon Guard charged back into the fray. Victory was certain, no matter what the Flickering Man suggested.

[Rabbit55821]

Quorum Praeteritum III
Early Winter, 1068 AD

Duke Morcar looked over the coffin of his friend, Aethelwin. But what concerned Morcar at that moment was not that his friend was dead, no...it was the hole burned through his friend's skull.

William of Durham and Oswald de Cherlton were the only other two in the room. Oswald was a Knight in Morcar's service, and the man who had found Aethelwin. Oswald had found Aethelwin while hunting Scottish survivors of the battle the day before. They would say Aethelwin had died in battle, but it was a lie. Whatever had killed Aethelwin had not used a weapon known to them.

"The Flickering Man did this. It had to be." said Duke Morcar.

Oswald and William both exchanged curious glances, and Morcar remembered they had not heard of Aethelwin's encounter. "While we were preparing for the battle, Aethelwin saw butterfly. But it wasn't like any butterfly he'd ever seen, and he said it appeared and disappeared many times. He said that he then saw a man on the hill above him doing the same. Appearing and disappearing, seemingly at will, and at different locations each time, within a few feet of each other, mind you. He called it the Flickering Man. He thought it was an Angel. Now I believe it to be a Demon."

There was silence in the room for a minute, before William of Durham spoke up. "We tell the men he died in battle. He doesn't have a much of a family, so we won't need to do very much explaining. With all the people that died, it will be believed."

Morcar nodded in agreement. "How many other men were with him, Oswald?"

"Five, m'lord."

"And they all have the same marks?"

"Yes. A hole burned through the forehead, and a similar hole in the back of their skull."

The Duke sighed and looked as Oswald. "I need someone to help make sure this stays covered up, even after we leave Cumberland."

Oswald looked at the Duke and raised an eyebrow. "How so?"

"When we return to the Northumbrian Court, I'll name you Count of Cumberland, as my vassal. From there, I want you to make sure that no one learns of the truth of these events."

The man's face turned to one of delight. "Thank you, m'lord. I will do my best to serve you."

Morcar nodded, and looked at the body. "Now, let's deal with the immediate circumstances we find ourselves in."

[Rabbit55821]

Quorum Praeteritum IV
Late Winter, 1073 AD

Oswald de Cherlton was lying in his chambers. Unlike his wife, who was in a very deep sleep, Oswald could not sleep. At least, he hadn't been able to for the last hour. The dripping of water unsettled him. It wasn't usual at all. That multiplied by a guilty conscious just did not equal sleep.

Drip.

Drip.

Drip.

Drip.

Ting.

The tiny sound of metallic scraping had Oswald upright in less then a second. He frantically looked around, before grabbing the small knife on his bedside. Wait, it wasn't there. And why had his wife not even stirred?

A moment later, Oswald was being strangled from behind. He leaped forward, colliding with the wall and sending his opponent staggering. As Oswald tried to recover, he saw his opponent draw a long dagger. The man got into a defensive crouch, seemingly waiting for Oswald to strike. And then in a flash, the man had drawn a second dagger and tossed it.

Oswald stumbled back into the wall, a dagger now buried in his stomach. The large man grabbed Oswald and pinned him to the wall, holding a blade up to Oswald's throat. He couldn't see the man's face, as it was covered. In fact, the man was dressed entirely in black, which was why Oswald had only been able to make out his silhouette.

But as soon as the man spoke, Oswald recognized the voice. "You've broken your Oath. You promised to protect the Secret."

The voice belonged, unmistakably, to William of Durham.

"I've done your bidding for years. Not anymore. Wait until I tell the King that Duke Morcar has been hiding a Demon. People have died, William. The Flickering Man is a curse, and we need to seek out help if we are to extinguish it."

"This is about more then just that Demon. You know that we have been searching for it, and for ways to defeat it. But imagine if the secret got out. It would put everything at risk. Edwin and Morcar hold the only legitimate claims in England to the Kingship, but if that secret got out, then it would extinguish any hope we have of saving England from the Franks and reestablishing Anglo-Saxon rule!."

"Says the only Frank in the court of Northumbreland!"

"Why do you think I joined Morcar's court? The Normans invaded your lands, and I want to right the wrongs my people did to yours!"

Oswald sighed and looked down, causing William to loosen up. And with that Oswald raised his knee into William's crotch, and pulled the knife from his stomach. He screamed as he raised the knife, but William was to fast. William of Durham brought his dagger up in a single motion, shoving the blade right under Oswald's chin. The Count collapsed, blood leaking in large amounts from his body. William sighed in regret, looking over to the poisoned woman on Oswald's bed. It had to be done, to protect Northumbreland. Right?

[Rabbit55821]

Alright, that was a whole ton of stuff all at once. I hope you guys enjoy reading this as much as I enjoy writing it! Tomorrow we'll move on with Chapter II, although there will probably be a lot less content concerning the "Flickering Man" or the Butterfly, or will there be?

Who is the Flickering Man? Who is Jack Tempest? What are their relations to Luke Tempest? What killed Aethelwin, and how? What will Morcar have to due to further his Dynasty? Will the Scots want revenge? Will the new Count of Cumberland be more, persuadable? Will Morcar reestablish an Anglo-Saxon England? What is the connection between Jack Tempest and Richard Adamson? What is the Omega Event?

All will be answered...actually probably not within any small timespan. But they will be answered, and more questions will appear on, Historia Quod Britonum!

[Rabbit55821]

Great start! Good luck with your new AAR! I am interested to see how you will use different games to produce this AAR.

Thanks! I actually just noticed your post, lol. There are actually Converters created for the Paradox Games to transfer Save Files to the next game and then to the one after that, up to Hearts of Iron 3. It's pretty fun actually! It's funny to be raising levies to march into the Holy Lands one month, and then a few months later be trying to prevent the Communist Party from launching a violent uprising

[Rabbit55821]

Chapter II
A New Era
1078 AD - 1079 AD

The year 1076 AD marked the beginning of a well known era in history; the Crusader Era. For many years, the Muslims had barred access to Jerusalem by the Christians, both Catholics and those of the Orthodox faith.

With strife in Catholic Europe, an expansion of Muslim power, and now the barring of access to Jerusalem, the Pope knew that action needed to be taken. And thus, the 1st Crusade was declared, with the purpose of taking Jerusalem.

Many nations answered the call to war, even Northumbreland marched to the Holy Lands, determined to reclaim Jerusalem and to serve the Pope, or simply to preserve their prestige. But the harshness of sea travel would claim more Crusader lives then the Muslims themselves, especially in Northumbreland.

On the 6th of October, Morcar Leofricson set out to the Holy Land. Before he left however, he set out ensuring that Agatha would receive an education in Court, while Thored would recieve a Martial Education. Thored was known to be a cunning and vengeful child, and this, added to the fact that he was Morcar's heir, made it clear what education he would receive. Morcar had also fell in love with his wife in previous months, despite the political nature of their marriage, and found it hard to leave.

But leave he did. Morcar the Fierce set out with around 1200 men to reclaim Jerusalem. However, his forces were not equipped for the scenarios they would be facing, primarily due economic stress in Northumbreland. Morcar the Fierce's campaigns over previous years had strained the Northumbrian treasury, which would eventually lead to his Steward leaving the Northumbrian Court only a few days before Morcar left. Anabella became Steward, being the second most well-versed in the Duchy in matters of the treasury, and a new Spy Master was chosen.

In March of 1078 AD, Jerusalem was taken by Eudes de Lomagne, the Count of Labourd. Eudes was a often neglected member of the French Court, but had amassed a considerable army to take Jerusalem, primarily with the aid of Aragonese and Leonese Mercenaries.

Despite the massive casualties suffered by Morcar's army during their sea travels (his army now numbered around 260), the Duke continued on to Jerusalem, determined to see the holy city before the end of his lifetime. He arrived in June near Darum, but was ambushed by a Muslim Army of around 300. King William soon arrived with a number of about 2000, and the two defeated the Muslim ambush.

Zakariah Najjar soon arrived, however, with 2000 soldiers. The Battle of Darum lasted for nearly a month, and Zakariah was driven back north. Having taken most of the casualties, King William set sail back to England, having been satisfied with entering the Holy Lands. Morcar, however, was more determined. Having lost so many only drove his determination to see Jerusalem.

Morcar was ambushed, however, by a small Muslim force and then by Zakariah, seemingly a popular tactic used by Zakariah Najjar. With less then 200 men against nearly 1900, Morcar had no hope of victory. Morcar the Fierce was able to escape with a small group of his Saxon Guard, but the rest of his army was slayed.

Morcar was able to arrive in Jerusalem in October, staying for a month before setting sail back to Northumbreland. England's Crusade had failed, but the Church's Crusade was victorious. Morcar Leofricson arrived in Northumbreland in May. Many praised him for his piousness, but the topic of the 1st Crusade was a touchy one in England, with so many many lost during the fight, even though, as previously stated, most men were lost while at sea.

With Jerusalem taken by Christian forces and it's occupation officially excepted by the Muslim ruler who had controlled, the 1st Crusade had effectively ended in 1078 AD. However, it would continue on for several more years nevertheless.

But by June of 1079, the Catholics had already fractured into war again when King Phillipe of France declared war on the Duchy of Luxembourg, and the Holy Roman Empire protected it's vassal against the French aggressors. Most of the English Nobility was uneasy, waiting in fear for the messenger that would arrive telling them that King William had followed King Phillipe into war. But the messenger never came. By December, however, King Phillipe was also Duke of Luxembourg, but the war with the Holy Roman Empire continued.

The Holy Roman Empire defeated several large French Armies heading into Northern Germany before launching an offensive. By April, the Holy Roman Empire's armies were much closer to Paris then the French wanted them to be, but the French were readying for a counterattack to drive the Germans back east. A new era had begun, and it was marked by one of the largest wars in Medieval European History. The Germans and the French clashed and thousands died, but it wasn't yet apparent who the victory would be, or if England would find itself dragged in to the war.

[Rabbit55821]

Quorum Praeteritum V
Late Fall, 1078 AD

Morcar Leofricson kept his sword raised as he slowly moved through Zedekiah's Cave. He had arrived in Jerusalem after the defeat of his army by Zakariah Najjar. Everyone believed that he had come to the Holy City because he was determined to do so after all the men he had lost, and it had some truth to it. But right now, he was hunting the Flickering Man.

Four of his Saxon Guard stood behind him. These were the men that followed him everywhere, even guarded him while he slept. The other survivors of his battle with Zakariah, numbering about 30, were still at the garrison helping the French Crusaders under Eudes de Lomagne rebuild the city's defenses.

Morcar held back his shock as he stepped around a corner to see a man standing there. Then the man was suddenly only six feet away from Morcar, and standing. He wore long brown robes, much like the kind that Monks wore.

The two stared at each for a moment before Morcar charged the Flickering Man, and thrust his sword toward's the Man's chest. But his blade bounced off with a sharp, metallic ping, and it was the Flickering Man's turn. The Flickering Man reached into his robe to pull out his weapon, but then vanished, reappearing behind Morcar.

Morcar's Saxon Guards then simultaneously charged the Flickering Man, intent on overwhelming him. The Flickering Man then turned holding out his hand. Before Morcar could make out what was in the man's hand, several flashes of light illuminated the cave, and two Saxon Guards stumbled back, one bleeding from his stomach and the other bleeding from his chest, but no signs of being cut to be seen.

The Duke attacked the Flickering Man, who grabbed Morcar's sword hand before pressing a L-shaped piece of metal to his chin. "Your technology is quite inferior to my own. Surely you must realize that by now."

Suddenly, the Flickering Man was gone, and he reappeared several feet away. "It's slower now..." he mumbled to himself, before looking up at Morcar. "Put your weapons on the ground, now."

Morcar shook his head. "Why are you in Jerusalem, Demon? Was Northumbreland not enough for you to terrorize?"

The Flickering Man laughed. "Terrorize? I'm trying to save your world."

"If you expect me to believe that, Demon, then you are a fool."

The Flickering Man stood in thought for a minute before speaking. "I'm not a Demon, quite the opposite. God gave me these abilities so that I could recover artifacts that were hidden in the Holy Lands to save them from the coming wars."

The Duke was confused. He had no idea whether he should believe the Flickering Man or not. While Demon's could easily lie and deceive, if what the Man said was true he would be killing a man of God. "I-" started Morcar.

He was cut off when the Flickering Man leaped forward, bringing his shoulder down into Morcar's chest and raising the metal object in his hand. A flash of light filled the cave, and one of Morcar's Saxon Guards collapsed with a hole in between his eyes. The Flickering Man then vanished, appearing several feet forward towards the end of the cave. Within moments, the Flickering Man was gone.

[Rabbit55821]

Quorum Praeteritum VI
Late Winter, 1080 AD

Thored and his father, Morcar, were chasing a boar threw the woods, along with several other Nobles, on horseback. Morcar had decided to take his son hunting, and opportunity for which Thored was excited.

The Duke held a spear in his hand, trying to drive the boar into a trap the group had set up. Several hounds were running along with the group of hunters, trying to corner the boar as they chased it. The Nobles behind the Duke, numbering about three, wielded bows.

As the boar ran along, Morcar could feel both pride and excitement building up in him. The Duke had begun to feel his age, he was now in his early 50s, and he wanted to go on at least one last hunt. Suddenly the boar turned towards Morcar, starling his horse and sending it careening to the left.

Normally Morcar would have been fine, but his like did not allow for him to be fine. Morcar was thrown from his horse, and sent flying into the air before colliding with a tree. When he finally hit the ground, Morcar was in tremendous pain.

Two minutes later, everyone involved in the hunt was huddled around the wounded Duke. Thored was sitting next to his father, asking him again and again if he was alright. Morcar wanted to yell at the child, but he knew that Thored was simply concerned for his wounded Father, and he wasn't trying to be annoying.

"Did you get the boar?" asked Morcar. Thored shook his head, sad that he wasn't able to kill the boar. "We'll go hunting again once I recover, and time permits, is that alright.

"Yes, Father. Thank you." said Thored. The boy was very well mannered and disciplined, and had taken after his Father in matters of combat.

Thored stepped aside as Morcar was lifted. He wondered if his Father would survive, but now that his Father was taken off, he was filled with rage. He sprinted off into the woods, determined to find and kill the boar with his dagger. When the Nobles found him, he was sitting and crying.

And he was next to a dead boar.

[Caillagh de Bodemloze]

This is a great beginning, Rabbit, and I love the idea of it!

(Will we ever discover exactly what a Luthorist is, and why Luthorists are called that?)

[Rabbit55821]

This is a great beginning, Rabbit, and I love the idea of it!

(Will we ever discover exactly what a Luthorist is, and why Luthorists are called that?)

Thanks! I took inspiration from a lot of different AARs that I've read for this. And yeah, we will eventually discover what the Luthorists are.

I will say that the Luthorists' name is based off their founder, Luthor. One of the difficulties about writing Edwin's storyline is that it takes place after the end of the AAR, so I have to kinda assume I will have accomplished my in-game goals and avoid plot elements that might be different in-game. That's one reason that that storyline begins in 1968, far enough from the end of the game for things to have changed.

I will make another post soon, one which may have a large plot development within

[Rabbit55821]

Chapter III
Chaos and Order
1079 AD - 1087 AD

One of the final events in Northumbreland in the year 1079 was the giving of Osred, son of Duke Burgred de Cherlton of Cumberland, as a fosterling to Duke Morcar Leofricson of Northumbreland. However, this event is almost completely overshadowed by both history and the Northumbrian Court, as Morcar was severely wounded on January 29th of 1080 AD, a wound he would never again recover from.

Duke Morcar was hurt during a hunting expedition with his son, Thored, and several other nobles. He was brought to Castle Leofric, which had been constructed earlier in the year 1079 AD, and would spend most of what remained of his life there. After receiving the wound, Morcar was known to have become weak-willed, simply wishing to rest and recover from the illness that soon came over him as a result of his wound.

The Northumbrian Court attempted to groom Thored for the position he would soon assume, but he refused to leave Castle Leofric, spending most of his time with his dying father. Many tales surround the vengeance that Thored took on the boar that caused his Father's wounds, but even historical accounts of the period record that Thored personally slaughtered the boar while his Father was taken to Castle Leofric.

However, time did not stop for Europe as it did for Northumbreland, as Eudes de Lomagne was forced to surrender Jerusalem to the Kingdom of Egypt in May of 1081 AD, revamping the 1st Crusade. Much of Europe rejoined the 1st Crusade over the coming years, dragging on the holy conflict.

Jerusalem is surrendered to the Egyptians

This reminded much of the Northumbrian Court that they needed to continue on, despite their Duke's wound and illness. In September, Morcar and Anabella began to expect a child. This was a source of much confusion, and still is, as Morcar was still in recovery when the word was announced of a coming child. Many believe that Anabella cheated on her husband, although Morcar never made any account on the matter.

Eadhild Leofricson was born to Anabella and Morcar in May of 1082 AD. Morcar did not interact much with his child, however, due to his wounds. Anabella primarily raised Eadhild, before she was handed off to be raised by the local noble.

In October, the war between the Kingdom of France and the Kingdom of Germany ended, partly due to the renewed Crusade, but mostly due to the bloodbath that was the Battle of Paris. The Germans and French faced off in Paris in a battle that lasted for nearly three months, and thousands of soldiers died before the Germans were routed.

This allowed the nobles of France and Germany to focus on aiding the Crusaders in the Holy Land against the Kingdom of Egypt. However, another major war was occurring in the region, as the Byzantine Empire (as it is known today) faced off against the Seljuk Turks, and lost. Much of the Byzantine Empire's eastern holdings were lost, and the Byzantines struggled to push back the Seljuks.

However, most was quiet in England, but this would soon change. In June, Morcar insulted a Bishop who had come to visit from Rome and cast him out from Northumbreland. However, Morcar died only a month later. Thored Leofricson was now Duke of Northumbreland, with Anabella as his regent.

Only days later, Thored allowed for King William the Usurper to take control of his armies, as William had mobilized much of his Realm's troops in order to join the 1st Crusade. Thored also sent his sister, Agatha, as a fosterling to King William in an attempt to repair relations.

Wulfthryth came of age in March, and in April, William of Durham retired from his position as Marshal. He was replaced by Eadwig de Greystoc, wife to Edith de Greystoc, the Chancellor of Northumbreland. In June, Eadwig and Edith's daughter, Aelfgifu de Greystoc, was married to Thored Leofricson, the son of Estmond Leofricson, who was the son of Edwin Leofricson.

All these events, as with many in the past, were primarily overlooked when Thored Leofricson, left vengeful and violent following his Father's death, demanded that Burgred de Cherlton surrender his title as Count of Westmorland to Thored, with Thored having an intense rivalry with Osred de Cherlton, who he often believed that his Father paid more attention to. Burgred refused, but Thored, consumed by rage, answered his problem by having Osred killed. The assassin sent by Thored was successful, but was discovered and captured. This would be marked throughout history as the beginning of the short period known as the Chaos in English History.

In February of 1084, Wulfthryth rebelled against Thored, with relations being intense ever since Osred's death. Despite his troops being occupied, Thored was no helpless, as King William soon marched north with his large armies to subdue Wulfthryth. As a symbol of his thanks, Thored married Eadwine Leofricson to Robert de Mowbray, a good friend of King William and a member of the English Court.

Burgred joined the rebellion in May, but was defeated in a matter of days by King William, who was already marching through Cumberland to attack Wulfthryth in Westmorland. The battle was hard-fought, but the inevitable occurred, and King William was victorious. In early June, Cumberland was integrated into Thored's demense and Burgred was executed by Thored, at the time known as Thored the Vengeful.

By the end of the month, Wulfthryth had also been defeated, and William had begun to lay siege to the Isle of Man and Westmorland. It seemed that the chaos would soon come to an end, but this was untrue.

Only a few days after an alliance was formed with Olaf Haraldsson, King of Norway, by Anabella as Regent of Northumbreland, Edwin Leofricson rebelled against King William, and Anabella left to the Court of Lancaster. However, Norway didn't join the rebellion, to Anabella's disappointment, as Olaf stated his alliance was with Northumbreland, not with Anabella or Lancaster. Eadwig de Greystoc became Regent in Anabella's place, and Northumbreland continued on dealing with it's own rebels as King William broke his force into thirds, sending off a third of his army to deal with Edwin along with support from soldiers from Cornwall.

In May, a few days after Anabella left the Court of Northumbreland, Thored began to atone for his sins after being visited by Offa Darcy, a Bishop who arrived in Northumbreland during Thored's Coming of Age Ceremony (Eadwig's regency lasted less then a week). The Duke began to realize that Anabella had been using his grief to manipulate him, as he well documents in his personal journals. He become a very pious individual after Offa Darcy's visit, and started down a new path.

The Chaos came to an end in August, when William had Thored and Estmond executed, and Thored was given the titles Duke of Lancaster and Count of Lancaster. He had also recieved the titles Count of the Isle of Man and Count of Westmorland when Wulfthryth had been defeated and revoked her titles, before being sent off to Denmark to marry the Duke of Vastergotland.

Richard de Normandie, Count of Chester and Son of King William of England, and Count Thored Leofricson, Count of Derby and Son of Estmond Leofricson, both became vassals of Duke Thored Leofricson. As the final act of Thored Leofricson during the Chaos, the young Duke granted the titles Bishop of the Isle of Man and Bishop of Cumberland to Offa Darcy, thanking him for helping Thored out of his dark phase. Thored then married Blanche Capet, daughter of Phillipe Capet, King of France.

Things had completely turned around for the Duke of Northumbreland, who many had been convinced was leading Northumbreland down a path of chaos. But now Thored was a highly prestigious and pious individual, had a treasury overflowing with gold, and was one of the most powerful men in England. This was a memorable accomplishment in Northumbrian History, one which is considered to have surpassed the accomplishment of Morcar the Fierce.

Many wondered if Thored would return to his old, vengeful ways, but most were content to enjoy the prosperity. Only time would unveil which side was right.

Crown of the Dual-Duke of Northumbreland

[Alwyn]

Good update, with very effective use of images!

Who is the Flickering Man? Who is Jack Tempest? What are there relations to Luke Tempest? What killed Aethelwin, and how? What will Morcar have to due to further his Dynasty? Will the Scots want revenge? Will the new Count of Cumberland be more, persuadable? Will Morcar reestablish an Anglo-Saxon England? What is the connection between Jack Tempest and Richard Adamson? What is the Omega Event?

I like the way that your writing raises questions in the mind of the reader - your writing makes me want to know the answers to these questions!

[Rabbit55821]

I'm glad you guys like the AAR! I enjoy teasing my readers Also, after my final post(s) concerning Morcar, the Flickering Man mostly glides away from the minds of the characters for a while, as the primary people who knew about it (Morcar, William of Durham, and Burgred de Cherlton) have either died or retired from their position, he will serve more of a background position for several years.

And I thought the post with all the questions might have been a bit much, but now that I see you guys like it I might do it more often.