"The Rose King" is set in medieval England and revolves around the Wars of the Roses, a battle between the Houses of York and Lancaster over the throne. It's also famous for its motif of William Shakespeare's historical drama. As of March 2021, 15 volumes of the original manga have been published. The original has two acts, and the second act is currently in progress. It's likely the anime adaptation will focus on the content of the first act. This time, I'd like to introduce the plot of the first act, including spoilers!
Introduction: What's the Story?
The story is set in medieval England. The House of York and the House of Lancaster were constantly fighting for the throne. Richard, the third son of the House of York, was born a "hermaphrodite," possessing the characteristics of both men and women, and as a result was despised by his mother, who called him the "child of the devil." However, he was raised with love from his father, the Duke of York. Richard wanted his father to ascend to the throne, but his wish would spark war in England. Furthermore, Richard kept the fact that he was a hermaphrodite a secret, and while he was hiding his secret, he himself became embroiled in the fighting.
Spoiler 1: Richard's Wish
Unlike his mother, Cecily, who called him the "son of the devil," Richard's father, the Duke of York, showered his son with love. Richard revered his father for his kindness and wished for him to become king. To become king, the Duke of York made a promise with Henry, the king of the House of Lancaster. As a result, Henry's son, Edward, who would have been the next king if all had gone well, was unable to inherit the throne. Queen Margaret was disappointed that her son's right to the throne had been taken away from her, and began to feel that she was a worthless husband.
Spoiler ② Awakening as a Woman
Although Richard possesses both male and female characteristics, he himself aspires to be a strong man. One day, he meets Henry VI, prince of the House of Lancaster. The House of Lancaster is the arch enemy of the House of York, but Richard, unaware of Henry's true identity, is drawn to him. Falling in love with Henry, Richard becomes aware of his inner "woman." Believing Richard to be a woman, Henry becomes enamoured of him. However, upon seeing Richard embrace his father, he becomes jealous and angry.
Spoiler 3: After the Duke of York's Death
Richard's father was defeated in battle and executed by Queen Margaret. Edward, the eldest son of the House of York, succeeded his father and, after a fierce battle, defeated the House of Lancaster and ascended to the throne in place of Henry VI. Although Edward was already engaged to be married, he was captivated by Elizabeth, the widow of a minor nobleman, and made her his queen. However, Elizabeth's goal was to avenge her late husband.
Spoiler 4: Edward's Fate
Angered by Edward's unauthorized marriage, the Earl of Warwick recruited George, the second son of the House of York, to join forces with the House of Lancaster. He overthrew Edward and restored Henry VI to the throne. Edward was captured, but was rescued by Richard. The three York brothers combined their strength to overthrow the House of Lancaster, killing the Earl of Warwick. Queen Margaret and Prince Edward also challenged the battle, but Prince Edward was ultimately killed. Warwick's daughter, Anne, regrets the loss of her husband, Prince Edward, and is subjected to cruel treatment due to her sister Isabella's evil schemes.
Spoiler 5: The End of Henry VI
Richard discovers that the imprisoned Henry VI is actually Henry, the man he loved. Even though he knows he is his father's murderer, his love for him prevents him from killing him. His eldest son, Edward, is tempted by his mother, Cecily, to kill him, and Richard reveals everything and begs her to love him. In his confusion, Henry rejects Richard's feelings, and Richard, disappointed, stabs Henry.
Spoiler Summary
This article contains spoilers for the first act of "The Rose King." Richard's pure desire for his father to become king sparked a massive battle for the throne known as the Wars of the Roses. The battle for the throne vividly depicts human desires, making it a compelling read. Richard's sexual secret and the forbidden relationships it unleashes are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats! If you're interested, be sure to read the original manga before watching the anime! That's all for now. Thank you for reading.
