Bertrice Small
The Captive Heart
The third book in the Border Chronicles series, 2008
This book is dedicated with love and great respect to the two women who unknowingly started me on my career. The late Ivy Bolton, aka Sister Mercedes from the Anglican community of Saint Mark's, a wonderful author of children's historical novels, who encouraged my passion for history; and the late Miss Frances Anderson, the best English teacher any girl ever had. God bless you both and thank you!
Prologue
MARCH 29, 1461The screams of the dying men could hardly be heard the howling wind. Foe was indistinguishable from friend amid the heavily falling snow that swirled about the combatants. It was bitterly cold as only an early spring in Northumbria could be. The king and his few remaining advisers huddled on the edge of the battlefield until one, braver than the others, reached out to take the bridle of the king's horse and lead it away. Then those who were with them followed. It was the end of an era. The end of a reign.
The wiser among them knew it. Understood it. They considered now how best to retain their heads as well as their fortunes with a new king in a Yorkist regime. They thought of the enemies and the friends that they had among the now favored. Which of those men would have influence enough to save or destroy them? The loyalists, however, were painfully aware that they now faced exile. They silently prayed for the safety of their own families, whom they might never see again in this life.
"Is it over?" the king asked softly. His eyes were beginning to lose their focus. It was a sure indication that one of his attacks of madness was approaching.
"Yes, my liege, it is over" came the quiet reply.