Edward IV of Wyrsia

**Edward IV**, sometimes called **Edward the Archer**, born as **Edward Mitthel**, was the King of Wyrsia from 679 AW until his death in 701 AW. His reign was defined by long-term stability and economic growth.

## Biography

### Early Life

Born to his father Zachary Mitthel in Thorne, Edward grew up following in his father's footsteps. He was trained in the art of war like his father, being squired and eventually knighted. He possessed an above-average talent with the bow and became part of his father's company of the Thorne Retinue.

In Thorne, Edward settled down and had a son called Tristan in 648 AW. However, in 649 AW, he left Thorne and moved to Woodhall alongside his father, who had been appointed as the new General of the Army of Woodhall, which would be the main force in the upcoming Wyrsian Invasion of Great Skull. During the war, Edward proved himself multiple times in combat, killing dozens of tribal warriors with his bow.

When his father overthrew Edward III and, subsequently, the Order of the Red Dove, Edward became his father's personal champion and a member of the Wyrsian Royal Guard. Zachary I began a large series of reforms both economically and politically to turn Wyrsia into a functional nation after a century of puppet rule. Zachary died in 679 AW and Edward was crowned Edward IV of Wyrsia.

### King of Wyrsia

After being inaugurated, Edward IV did little to change the reforms of his father. He only made adjustments to the kingdom's policies whenever it was truly required. This resulted in the reforms being cautious and slow, yet very effective, as Wyrsia and her people had time to adapt without being forced to take drastic measures.

Besides continuing his father's reforms, Edward IV also started a few projects of his own. With the Wyrsian economy once again growing, he constructed a series of fortifications, the most notable of which being Khuronai Castle in Woodhall and the renovated Thorne Castle. He also launched new infrastructure projects for the common people and a few projects that were mostly for himself. The most notable of those is the Wyrsian Royal Hunting Grounds just north of Woodhall.

Edward IV died in 701 AW and was succeeded by his son Tristan.

## Career

Kingdom of Wyrsia

* Squire (636-640 AW)
* Knight (640-650 AW)
* Knight Lieutenant (650-652 AW)
* Royal Guard (652-679 AW)
* King of Wyrsia (679-701 AW)

## Awards

* Service Medal - Kingdom of Wyrsia
* Chivalry Medal - Kingdom of Wyrsia
* Great Skull Victory Medal - Kingdom of Wyrsia

## Personality

Edward IV is described as a calm and cautious monarch, always carefully considering his options before acting. This proved to be a good trait to have in a time of economic recovery, as he masterfully controlled spending. Away from court life, he was an avid hunter, often taking nobles and even some of the regular soldiery with him on his trips to the Royal Hunting Grounds. However, he never used hunting as an excuse to slack off on his duties. Edward IV worked incredibly hard as a king, to the point of burning himself out on multiple occasions.

## Relationships

* Zachary Mitthel - My father was a great man and a hero of mine. I know they will sing songs about him for generations to come, and I am glad to have known him. Being a monarch is a joy and a responsibility I have accepted, yet I still miss him.