Uilleam ‘The Handsome’

As the armies marched to deal with Ce, and Scotland was riven by revolt, Uilleam Gòrdonach came into his majority and the regency ended. Uilleam promptly wed Hemma Karling, daughter to King Karl II ‘The Fat’ of Bavaria, seeking prestige and potential allies on the continent. 

With domestic affairs settled, the troublesome Earl of Ce needed to be dealt with.

Ainmeil (Notable)

• Uilleam Gòrdonach - Duke of Moray
• Sigtrygg av Ivar - Norse King of Scotland
• Hemma Karling - bride to Uilleam Gòrdonach and Princess of Bavaria

Cunntas (Events)

In 886 the revolt in Scotland was successfully put down. Uilleam was regarded as a handsome and scholarly theologian, and his skills were recognized by Sigtrygg as he sought to further secure his throne. Uilleam was given the honorary title of hirdman for his loyalty and skill.

Consolidation

In May of 886, the Court Chaplain reported that the churches and parishes in Orkney were flourishing and that the population there had largely thrown off their pagan ways. In June of that same year, Gilchrist mac Crinan of Ce was defeated and banished, Uilleam taking his title and treasury. Waldeve de Elgin was named Count in Orkney and Farquahar of St. Machar was named Count of Ros in October of 886, to reduce the demesne of the Duke and satisfy some of the concerns of the court.

In further recognition of Uilleam, King Sigtrygg offered to name him Chancellor of Scotland in early 887. Uilleam humbly refused.

It was December of 887 that brought joy, and security, to Moray when young Niall was born of Hemma and Uilleam.

Uilleam’s Claim on Scotland

888 saw two revolts begin for Sigtrygg. Again East Anglia took up arms, and then separately Galloway. With the power of Scotland divided, Uilleam saw a chance to press his own claim for the crown of Scotland, and retrieve it from the Norse invaders. The levies were called up, and the Saxon Band of Mercenaries hired to supplement them.

A series of sieges were quickly begun to reduce the strength of Sigtrygg, and when possible his forces were brought to the field for battle.

FAU 889.7 A battle between the Scotti of Fortriu and the pagans, where the pagans were slain.

The long sieges continued, and confidence grew within the Scots. Further celebrations occurred when, in December of 892, a daughter Màiri was born to Uilleam and Hemma.

Further clashes were held as Sigtrygg managed to reform forces of levies and either secure the smaller revolts that had been draining its strength, or (as with East Anglia) surrendered to free up troops. Yet, Uilleam kept the upper hand.

FAU 893.5 A battle in Melrose in which fell the pagans before the Scotti and Ewyas ap Hywel was carried off captive to Fortriu.

Yet, Sigtrygg called upon allies to aid him and new forces arrived, so Uilleam (his treasury still suitably deep) hired the Catalan Band of mercenaries to further strengthen his force and counter the threat.

This proved an excess of caution however, as Sigtrygg ‘The Silent’ av Ivar surrendered before further significant fighting was to take place.

FAU 895.2 Uilleam named King of the Scotti.