Sisters of The Bruce 1292-1314 (Abridged Version )

Sisters of The Bruce Chapter 6.3

Scotland

Kildrummy Castle

September 1296

Isa, dear heart,

Your prayers are needed. The last few months have left us drained and fearful. After the Dunbar debacle and in the face of King Edward's might, our community of the realm began to crumble. The Steward surrendered Roxburgh Castle. Edinburgh held out for but a week and Stirling, abandoned by its garrison, was left empty, gates open to the invaders. Weakened and humiliated, King John Balliol resigned his crown at Brechin Castle in July; the royal tabard, ripped from his person; his seal, shattered. They mock him now as 'Toom Tabard' or 'empty coat'. King Edward stole our most precious relic, Saint Margaret's Holy Rood of the Cross, as well as the royal regalia, jewellery and much silver plate.

Most telling of all was the theft of the Stone of Destiny, removed from its resting place at Scone abbey. Scotland's tradition of royal enthronement on the Stone will be forever denied if Edward has his way: he plans to have a wooden throne constructed over it so his dominion of our country will be complete. With Scotland beaten and despairing, the vultures have flown in. Nobles in Edward's army are rewarded with the lands of Scottish lords who were present at the defeat of Dunbar. Widows of those killed live in poverty, having lost lands and livelihoods. With husbands imprisoned, many are forced to petition the courts but with little success. Despite this, most remain steadfast in their loyalty.

August found our father and brother summoned to Berwick to renew pledges of homage and fealty to Edward. We are an embittered, divided people. Our lord father is less than contrite, believing he could not fight for King John Balliol who is supported by the Comyns, our mortal foe. Nor could we win against Edward's war machine. Rob remains silent on these divisive issues. Perhaps he will come soon to visit his daughter.

Instead, venal Edward gloats over our lands and people. For two days, his army camped around the castle and we were forced into polite, strained submission. I was thankful Mary held her vengeful tongue. With Garnait's father and so many friends in the Tower, it was imperative we avoid giving offence that might imperil them further. Providing food for the horde left us almost without supplies. I swear they would have eaten the horses had not word come for them to move on. Relief only came when they rode away, the tension in my head and chest lifting. It was like having a viper in my bed.

King Edward installed Hugh de Cressingham as his treasurer in Scotland. The people call him the treacherer, for the man bleeds Scotland dry in order to fill the English war coffers. Though fortunate to be so isolated, we feed many of the homeless here at Kildrummy, those who cannot afford the high taxes. Tomas reports much poverty and distress on his travels, especially around the towns oppressed by sheriffs and the like. Pray for us and Scotland.

Yours aye

Kirsty