Framlingham Castle, the Mowbray Estates

[Jokern]

Originally a Norman motte and bailey was built where Framlingham Castle now stands, which was destroyed by King Henry II in 1148. It was replaced with the current castle by Roger Bigod, the Earl of Norfolk, which was unusal for the time in that it had no central keep. Instead, it uses the curtain wall with thirteen mural towers to defend the centre of the castle, along with two meres outside the walls. It is a luxurious home, surrounded by parkland used for hunting, as well as extensive pleasure gardens within the castle. Framlingham Castle serves as the heart of the estates owned by the Mowbray family.

Current Residents:
None

Character Information

The House of Mowbray is one of the countless noble families that originate from Normandy, accompanying William of Normandy as he claimed the throne of England. While from humble origins, being founded by Geoffrey de Montbray, bishop of Coutances, are today among the most powerful influential families in England, as well as claiming descent from several Kings of England. However, time and time again have they rebelled against unpopular and tyrannical kings, from William Rufus to King John and Richard II. It was under Richard II that they were granted the title of Duke of Norfolk, through their descent from Thomas of Brotherton, Earl of Norfolk and for aiding the king in getting rid of his rebellious uncle Thomas of Woodstock. During the War of the Roses, the Mowbrays sided with Richard, Duke of York, though swore allegiance to Henry VI after the Battle of Ludford Bridge. Now they stand once more with the House of York, supporting the young Edward, Earl of March. John de Mowbray, 4th Duke of Norfolk, 1st Earl of Surrey, 10th Baron Mowbray, 11th Baron Segrave Name: John de Mowbray Titles: 4th Duke of Norfolk 1st Earl of Surrey 3rd Earl of Nottingham 10th Baron Mowbray 11th Baron Segrave Knight of the Garter Earl Marshal Age: 32 (born 1444) Marital Status: Married to Eleanor de Mowbray (née Neville), age 29 (born 1447) - barren Children: 2 sons; William de Mowbray (age 13 - born 1463), Edmund de Mowbray (age 11 - born 1465) Traits (7 points): Battles +2 Pillager +1 Survival +1 Duel +2 Joust +2 Mowbray family tree John de Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk (1415-1472), married Eleanor Bourchier (1417) John de Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk (1444), married Eleanor Neville (1447) William de Mowbray, Earl of Surrey (courtesy) (1463) Edmund de Mowbray (1465)

Provinces Information

Norfolk (Primary Title for the Duke of Norfolk): Rich Income - 50,000 crowns Grand Militia - 2,000 men Surrey (Secondary Title for the Duke of Norfolk): Prosperous Income - 40,000 crowns Large Militia - 1,500 men Nottinghamshire (Secondary Title for the Duke of Norfolk): Average Income - 30,000 crowns Average Militia - 1,000 men Baron Mowbray - Average Barony (Secondary Title for the Duke of Norfolk): Income: 10,000 Crowns Militia: 700 men Baron Segrave - Rich Barony (Secondary Title for the Duke of Norfolk): Income: 5,000 Crowns Militia: 200 men

Provincial Upgrades

Norfolk Tier I - Reinforced Wall (+1 Siege Defence Rolls, -2 raiding Rolls) - Grain Mill (+5% income, +1 Charisma) - Castle Smith (-5% professional troops’ upkeep and recruitment cost) - Chapel (+1 Charisma for nobles) - (Coastal Only) Dockyard (Requires wood. +5% income, player might build ships) - Market Square (+5% income) - Logging Camp (Gain access to Wood resource) - Small Mine (Gain access to Stone resource) Tier II - Towers and Gatehouse (Requires Stone. +2 Siege Defence Rolls, -4 raiding rolls) - Granary (+5% militia, +5% income, +5 militia replenishment) - Armory (-10% professional troops’ upkeep and recruitment cost) - Church (+1 Charisma for Nobles, +1 levy and taxation rolls) - (Coastal Only) Large Dockyard (Requires wood. +10% income, player might build ships, -20% ship recruitment and upkeep cost) - Merchant's Square (+10% province income) - Lumber Camp (+5% income) - Medium Mine (+5% income) Tier III - Improved Fortifications (Requires Stone. +4 Siege Defence Rolls, -5 raiding rolls) - Large Granary (+10% militia, +10% militia replenishment) - Arsenal (-15% professional troops’ upkeep and recruitment cost) - Large Mine (+10% income, required for Great Building) - Plow lands (Extends the demesne's arable lands, thus increasing production. Greater population sustainable. +5% militia, +5% income) Great Building Chain

Military

Livery and Maintenance 10x Heavy Footmen (1,000 men) 5x Men-at-Arms (500 men) 5x Yeomen Longbows (500 men) Retinue 5x Knights (500 men)

Provincial Bonuses

Norfolk The Fens: Short for 'the Fenlands', this large forested marshland has long made settlement difficult even after a few (and at this point in time, usually unsuccessful) attempts to drain the marshes. Most of its residents are religious hermits looking to get away from the world and the occasional brigand. On the flipside, an attacking army would definitely have trouble navigating this area as well. -2 to scouting and raid rolls. The People of Norwich: Built on the River Wensum near the capital of the Iceni tribe which famously resisted Roman rule under Queen Boudicca, Norwich grew rich off of the wool trade (supplied by the nearby sheepwalks) and became the second-largest city in 11th-century England after only London itself. It's also recognized as the pilgrimage site for Saint William of Norwich, a boy-martyr who was reportedly murdered by the Jews in 1144. The city may no longer be as prominent as it used to be, but it is still the capital of one of England's most populous counties and its people will not allow themselves to be ruled by hostile powers easily. d2*d1000 Militia (75% Militia Longbows, 25% Militia Footmen) will spawn when the city comes under attack unless its people happen to actually like the attacker more than its present controller and are confident that they won't sack the place upon victory. Surrey Heavily Forested: Surrey is one of the most heavily forested regions in all of England; it wasn't for nothing that the Saxons dubbed this area 'The Weald', which is to say, the woodland. -2 to scouting rolls. Nottinghamshire Nottingham Castle: Built with three baileys on a promontory near the River Trent appropriately titled 'Castle Rock', Nottingham Castle is a redoubt of strategic importance that has served as a royal residence and administrative center in the past, including under Edward III. It's also popularly known as the site of the final confrontation between the legendary outlaw Robin Hood and his archnemesis the Sheriff of Nottingham. +5 Siege rolls, -5 Raid rolls, and the castle's central keep is strong enough that a defender who loses its outer walls can hold out there for half a year more (3.5 days).

[Blastoise Groudon]

An messenger arrives to speak with the Earl of Surrey on the behalf of the King.

[Jokern]

Surrey admitted the messenger. He was still limping on his wounded leg, forced to walk with a cane.

"So, what does his Grace Edward send you for?"

[Blastoise Groudon]

Earl of Surrey, good day. His Grace hopes you are well and will meet with you soon. He wishes to know would you wish to be appointed to a new position since he is in the position to appoint and will do so to as many noblemen as he can for you and the others service at Towton.

[Jokern]

Surrey smiled.

"How could I say no to his Grace? It will certainly help me heal this damned limp that I've earned. I'll meet with him as soon as I can, I expect that he resides in Westminister nowadays?"

After thinking for a moment, John sighed.

"Oh, and please inform his Grace that my father Norfolk will join me as well, it will save you the trouble of delivering two messages. The Duke of Norfolk is looking forward to meet with his Grace after our family's great efforts before and at Towton."

[Blastoise Groudon]

Yes, he will be at Westminister. I will tell your grace. Thank you for your time.

The messenger bows and leaves.

[Jokern]

The Mowbray estates explode in joy and celebration after great news from the north arrive. A new member of the family has been delivered to this world, a healthy baby boy named William, in honour of his Bourchier grandfather the Count of Eu. While Norfolk is busy in London with his duties as Lord Chancellor to the king and the Earl of Surrey is up north as Warden of the Scottish Marches, the stewards and castellans of Framlingham Castle and the other estates and manors that belong to de Mowbray hold feasts, surmons and celebrations in honour of their future lord.

---

In London, The Duke of Norfolk takes a break from his busy work when the joyous news arrive. The evening was late and the sun was turning red on the horizon, so John and his beloved wife Eleanor took a glass of wine each and toasted to their grandson, thanking the Lord for all that was beautiful and right in the world.

[Oznerol]

Essex comes to Framlingham, riding all the way from London, to pay a visit to his exiled brother-in-law.

[Jokern]

Essex comes to Framlingham, riding all the way from London, to pay a visit to his exiled brother-in-law.

Earl Essex is lead by the steward to the pleasure garden, where the flowers were blooming in all imaginable colors. John de Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk, sits in the middle of the garden next to his wife, reading a book. The duke was wearing glasses, with temples that went around the ears so they did not have to be held in the hand. At the sight of Essex the duke smiles and invites his brother-in-law to sit. Eleanor nods to her brother and gives him a warm, welcoming smile. A wine cup is brought forth to the guest, with wine, fruits and cheese on the table.

"Essex, it has been a while, how are you? I hope that Bourchier is faring well? I heard that you've been appointed Constable of the Tower, and brother Canterbury is Lord Chancellor now. His Grace has been very generous to you, while I sit here with my wife, my wine and my books."

Eleanor frowned at him before turning back to her brother.

"It is good to see you, Henry, how have you been? And how is Isabel doing? I must congratulate you, I hear you've become a grandfather again. William is really a man in his youth, having so many children."

[Oznerol]

Earl Essex is lead by the steward to the pleasure garden, where the flowers were blooming in all imaginable colors. John de Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk, sits in the middle of the garden next to his wife, reading a book. The duke was wearing glasses, with temples that went around the ears so they did not have to be held in the hand. At the sight of Essex the duke smiles and invites his brother-in-law to sit. Eleanor nods to her brother and gives him a warm, welcoming smile. A wine cup is brought forth to the guest, with wine, fruits and cheese on the table.

"Essex, it has been a while, how are you? I hope that Bourchier is faring well? I heard that you've been appointed Constable of the Tower, and brother Canterbury is Lord Chancellor now. His Grace has been very generous to you, while I sit here with my wife, my wine and my books."

Eleanor frowned at him before turning back to her brother.

"It is good to see you, Henry, how have you been? And how is Isabel doing? I must congratulate you, I hear you've become a grandfather again. William is really a man in his youth, having so many children."

Essex walks with the aid of a cane.

"I'm fine brother, and I'd be even better if this gout leaves me alone"

He smiled faintly, before taking a seat, his swollen leg extended before him.

"Indeed, Fate has smiled upon us"

Bourchier's fortunes had only raised since Towton; two earldoms, a barony, titles and honors. He grabs his sister's hand, the both were growing old, but Henry looked more aged than Eleanor.

"Same, sister. I mourn not having visited you more often, however. Isabel is fine, she wants to visit you as soon as posible"

Isabel had been tending her daughter-in-law.

"And yes, I've become a grandfather again. Alas, my poor daughter-in-law has been rendered... infertile by this last labour"

[Jokern]

Eleanor looked at Henry in shock at his words.

"Oh I am so sorry to hear that, brother. To be true, there seems to be a curse over England. I've heard that many noble ladies have become barren over these last years after Towton. Perhaps God is punishing us for something, I do not know. Even my own sweet daughter-in-law, who gave us two wonderful grandsons, have been cursed by this. What is this world coming to?"

Norfolk listened in silence as the two talked. It had been some time since they had last met, so it was not his place to bother them. Yet he wondered what Essex had for business with him, or if this was just a familial visit. Mowbray had felt like he had been in exile, with not a soul paying him a visit. He understood that no man wanted to associate with him at the moment, but it saddened him still to be pushed out and forgotten in such a way. Norfolk put down his book and drank some wine. The book had just been imported from Italy, describing the few secrets about gunpowder and making handguns and cannons that had been allowed to be shared.

[Oznerol]

Eleanor looked at Henry in shock at his words.

"Oh I am so sorry to hear that, brother. To be true, there seems to be a curse over England. I've heard that many noble ladies have become barren over these last years after Towton. Perhaps God is punishing us for something, I do not know. Even my own sweet daughter-in-law, who gave us two wonderful grandsons, have been cursed by this. What is this world coming to?"

Norfolk listened in silence as the two talked. It had been some time since they had last met, so it was not his place to bother them. Yet he wondered what Essex had for business with him, or if this was just a familial visit. Mowbray had felt like he had been in exile, with not a soul paying him a visit. He understood that no man wanted to associate with him at the moment, but it saddened him still to be pushed out and forgotten in such a way. Norfolk put down his book and drank some wine. The book had just been imported from Italy, describing the few secrets about gunpowder and making handguns and cannons that had been allowed to be shared.

"God is with us, sister. We shouldn't worry. Indeed, it's unfortunate, but it isn't the first time, sadly, that a difficult labour renders a good woman infertile. Virgin Mary be merciful with her children"

Said Henry piously.

"To the matters at hand, brother, I believe you shouldn't remain exiled. I don't know any man of your stature. Certainly, you would be of greater use to the realm at the capital than in Framlingham. With patience, I shall try to get your banishment revoked. However, you surely repent of those foolish war plans of yours... Understand, Norfolk, that a punitive expedition would suffice"

Bourchier was clear, if Norfolk dropped his dreams of conquest, that bothered Essex greatly, his brother-in-law would try to get a pardon for the duke. Also, it could mean Norfolk owed one to Henry Bourchier.

[Blastoise Groudon]

An letter arrives to Norfolk. It is from Earl Hastings. In it, Hastings wrote he received the letter and apologizes for not replying sooner. He tells Norfolk he accepts his apology and tells him that we can let bygones be bygones.

[Jokern]

Norfolk scoffed and drank some more of his wine.

"I thank you for your concern and I would appreciate if you tried to pull some strings for my sake. However, I have no intention of repenting for my goals. I wish to forge England into a mighty force, and sacrifices have to be made to reach those goals. I still have my plans, and though perhaps my initial strategy was no the right path, all that is needed is to change the plans to better suit the conditions set. For example, have you heard that a guild for gunsmiths has been founded in a town in Germany? England would surely have its own uses of such a guild. Imagine, locally produced cannons and handguns, without the need to rely on mercenaries and the like."

[Oznerol]

"Guns are something a conquering a whole realm another, Norfolk"

Said Bourchier.

"I do agree the greatness of England should be restored, as it was under Henry V or our forebear Edward III. However, the enterprises your proposed were too much, considering the current state of things and common sense. Those other initiatives of yours, like producing cannons and the like are much more feasible"

He grunted, the leg was in pain again.

"However, I will try to get your banishment raised, for the realm's sake and your own"

[Jokern]

"Thank you, and if you were to meet with his Grace, please tell him that I have a proposal for where he could send me on a mission so that I may serve him more productively."

[Oznerol]

"He is soon to leave for Scotland, my brother will remain in charge. I'm sure he will approve this proposal of yours"

Said Essex.

"By the way, have you heard the latest news? The king acknowledged a bastard begotten with a certain Lady Elizabeth Grey and her son has been made an earl, of Winchester none less!"

Hampshire was more prosperous than Essex itself.

[Jokern]

Norfolk raised an eyebrow at the news.

"This I had not heard. An interesting development, but one I fear cannot lead to any good in the end. Mistresses is one thing for the king, but to officially recognize the issues and granting them titles and land... This is how pretenders to the throne are created, Essex, which lead to dynastic struggles and war. But I cannot tell the king what to do, but my opinion is still mine. I do find it as a sign of bad news."

[Oznerol]

"Indeed, and it's more troublesome she fathered a healthy son. Edward's first born, none less. However isn't her son by the King who got created an earl, but the one she fathered with Sir John Grey, once-heir of Elizabeth Ferrers. You know, the baroness is married to my son, by this marriage I'm uncle to this new Earl of Winchester"

Said Bourchier.

"So, naturally, I took an interest to this young boy. My daughter-in-law, his grandmother, states he's but a good boy and I have to believe her. The baroness says he's a well-mannered lad, lectured and fluent in Latin, Greek and even mathematics"

He grunts, numbers weren't his forte. Essex was connected to almost everyone by virtue of his marriages.

"However, what will surprise you is that the kid is you kindred, albeit distantly related. Ferrers reminded me of her mother, Isabel Mowbray, your aunt. Surprisingly, this new Earl of Winchester is your cousin!"

Bourchier smiled.

"Considering how high is he in the King's favor, we shouldn't disregard him that easily. We both are related to young Winchester and could... profit from it"

ooc: LOL, I'm LITERALLY, uncle to everyone in this game.

[Jokern]

"Your family is certainly connected to every noble house in England, and by virtue of that so is everyone else. It is hard to remember every family connection and bloodline that has been created and fallen over the years, especially when it comes to who your cousins are. Though you may be right about the new Earl of Winchester. If he is a cousin of mine it would not hurt to pay him a visit once, but it is the fact that his Grace has fathered his firstborn son with his mistress and recognized him that worries me. History is clear about the dangers of more than one proper bloodline with a claim to the throne. Yes, I know we're all related to the royal family somehow, but with a bastard line being born before the proper bloodline does not bode well."

Norfolk shook his head.

"The Greys are certainly moving up in the world now, with King Edward's graces upon them. I wish them all the best for that, though I fear for the future of England because of this development. I should really get moving to Germany as soon as I can, to make sure that England can create its own arsenal of gunpowder weapons."