King of England :
Stephen 1135-54
Background information :
In 1140 Hugh Mortimers Normandy estates fell to Angevin forces. His nephew, Earl William of Aumale and Stephen were defeated at the Battle of Lincoln in 1141 by an Angevin force which included Welshmen under Cadwgan and Maredudd, two younger brothers of the rulers of Maelienydd and Elfael. The Royalists got their revenge over the next few years. In 1142 Cadwgan was killed along with another brother, Hywel by Helias Say of Clun who had taken Welsh territory around Bleddfa early in the decade. This was followed by Hugh Mortimers 1144 invasion of Maelienydd and a concerted action in Elfael either by Hugh, William Braose, or both. In 1145 Hywels son Rhys was captured and imprisoned by Hugh Mortimer and blinded by him two years later. In 1146 Hugh killed Maredudd at the 'Battle of the

Bloody Field' thought to have taken place either in Beguildy to the NW or Knucklas. In 1148 Hugh siezed more territory to the N that had been part of the old Royalist Bishop of Herefords lands. This was because the new Bishop supported Earl Roger of Hereford (1144-53), an Angevin. Hughs gains were short lived as Earl Roger and Joce Dinan of Ludlow put forces into the field which kept Hugh pinned down in his castle strongholds and unable to continue holding his recent Welsh conquests. He was even captured and ransomed back to his followers at one point. Through this Maelienydd and Elfael reverted to their Welsh rulers Cadwallon and Einion Clud. During this period Hugh gave Shobdon to a knight called Oliver Merlymond in return for a promise of loyal service.