The Last York Prince [AU]

Rally

(Richard goes alone and prepares a contingency plan
A/N: this is going AU from what I originally planned, but why not)

Jasper watched as the young duke headed straight to meet the northern lords. William agreed to watch over him.

It was the first time Richard had travelled to York. People were at awed at the sight of him, looking so much like the late king.

They arrived at Middleham, where Richard and William met most of the northern lords. Some bowed before Richard.

"Your Grace, we're glad you are here", said one of the lords.

"I have come on behalf of your king, to beseech you, my lords, to fight the pretender who claims to be my uncle", said Richard.

"Why are you fighting with the man who had killed your father?".

"I have my reasons", said Richard.

"If anyone should wear the crown, it is you, Your Grace".

"I am, but a bastard, my lord. I don't think the council will agree to it", said Richard.

"If this pretender is truly the son of Edward IV, then he is no different than you".

"The only way for you to get the crown is to defeat Tudor in battle".

"Enough! I know what needs to be done. I'm just bidding time", said Richard.

"Bidding time for what?".

"I need them to trust me. Trust to the point no one will question my loyalty and they will never see it coming", said Richard.

"It's dangerous, Your Grace. Why can't we go with the duchess' plan?".

"Because we have 50/50 chance to win and I can't take a risk", said Richard.

The lords mumbled to each other. Richard never felt nervous thus far in his life. He is, after all, a child and he fears no one would take him seriously.

"We will rally with Your Grace, just as we rallied with your father".

"But what happens if your plan fails?".

MEANWHILE

Henry watched Jasper coughing and looking extremely sickly. Adding his worries to Richard heading off alone, it was causing Jasper's health to deteriorate.

"Uncle, please. Stop worrying", said Henry.

Jasper's mind raced back at what Margaret told him. If it was true, then Richard posed a threat and he had to do something.

"Your Majesty! Look!", a soldier called out.

Henry and Jasper ran out to see the mass army that followed behind the young duke. Whatever he had told them, Richard had brought Henry an army and the plan worked.

As Henry devised a plan, Richard studied the map. Looking at the vast plain and the surrounding trees, he had an idea.

"Why don't we hide half of our army in the trees? We make it look like we have less men than they do and attack them when they least expected", said Richard.

Henry looked over the map. Jasper smiled proudly.

"He has point", said Jasper.

"Alright, we go with the duke's plan", said Henry.

As they prepared for battle, Richard observed Jasper. He approached his guardian.

"Perhaps you should sit this one out?", Richard suggested.

Jasper chuckled. "I can still fight and someone has to look out for you", he said.

"I'll be fine, my lord. I always have", said Richard.

"Such confidence you have, Richard", said Jasper.

"Well..., I learned from the best", Richard smiled.

Before heading off, Richard stood by his wash bowl. He made sure no one is around before pulling out his locket.

Using the black string, he twirled the locket over the water in almost perfect circles. While it spun above the water, Richard blew; again and again.

Looking outside, the clouds began to turn darker and the wind began to pick up its speed. William entered the tent to see Richard tucking the locket within his tunic.

"You think this will work?", William asked.

"Maybe, but I just want them to slow down. Slow enough to make them think it's not the day to fight", said Richard.

One, he was wrong on that account, but his plan had worked. When Burgundian army charged forward, a partial of them, especially the front lines, perished by fiery arrows.

"Fall back! Fall back!", Richard smiled, watching his plan unfold.

"Keep this up and you'll be a great strategist, Richard", Henry complimented.

LONDON

Lizzie was more than relieved to see both her husband and son came home alive. She ran to Henry, embracing him with tears.

"Richard's plan had worked. There's nothing to worry of, Lizzie", said Henry.

Jasper's coughs caught their attention. Richard and William got down from their horses and helped Jasper to his room.

Richard dabbed a wet cloth on Jasper's forehead. Jasper grasped Richard's hand gently.

"Go and celebrate. You don't have to stay here with an old man", said Jasper.

"You'd often stay when I was sick. You've looked after me. Why can't I do the same?", said Richard.

"Richard, you must promise me", said Jasper.

"Promise what?", Richard frowned.

"Don't speak about that night to anyone. It'll only bring you grave danger. I know Margaret. I love you, Richard. You are the son I never have. I wish things were different. Promise me, Richard. Whatever happens, you don't say a word", said Jasper.

Richard felt tears in his eyes. He hugged Jasper as he nodded.

"I promise".

LATER

Richard quietly went out to find William. He found William and they hid behind the stables.

"If anything happens, I need this to be delivered to the king in discreet", said Richard, handing William a letter.

William went through it quickly and his eyes grew wide. "How is this substantial?", he asked.

"That day, when you told me Lord Jasper was looking for me, I went to find him and overheard his conversation with Beaufort. She was distraught. I think she did it", said Richard.

"What do you mean by "if something happens"? What's going on, Richard?", asked William.

William knew about the magic and Jaquetta of Luxembourg, but never really believe about Melusina. Richard had heard her singing again. If Lord Jasper dies days after the confession, he knew it would've been Margaret's doing and this time, he will make sure she falls.