Before hearing about the English advance, the French king had already been active in war. He had made a swift campaign and successfully retaken several towns and castles in Lower Normandy. These lands had belonged to the King of Navarre, who at that time was being held as a prisoner by the French king.
After completing this campaign, the king returned to Paris. However, his rest did not last long. News soon reached him that a new threat had appeared The English Advance Through France.
News of the Black Prince
The French king learned that the Prince of Wales, known as the Black Prince, had entered deep into French territory. He was leading a strong army of experienced soldiers. The English forces were moving through the region and approaching the important city of Bourges in the province of Berri.
This news alarmed the French king. He realized that the English army was not just raiding the countryside, but moving with purpose and strength. This required an immediate and serious response.
The King’s Determination
When the king heard of the English advance, he became determined to face them in battle. He declared firmly that he would meet the Black Prince wherever he could find him. He even swore that he would fight him directly Ephesus Daily Tour.
This shows how seriously the king took the threat. He was ready to gather all his strength and confront the English army in open battle.
The Call to Arms
To prepare for this confrontation, the king ordered a great assembly of his nobles and all those who owed him service. He sent letters across his kingdom, commanding them to join him without delay.
The message was clear and strict. No excuses would be accepted. Every man who received the king’s order had to come, or risk losing the king’s favor and facing punishment.
The king instructed them to gather in the regions of Blois and Touraine. From there, they would prepare to march against the English army.
The King Moves to Chartres
To act quickly, the king left Paris and traveled to Chartres. He chose this place so he could receive better and more reliable news about the movements of the English forces.
At Chartres, he waited and organized his army. Each day, more soldiers arrived from different parts of France. These included men from regions such as Auvergne, Berri, Burgundy, Lorraine, Hainault, Vermandois, and Picardy.
This growing army showed the strength of the French kingdom when it was united. Nobles and soldiers from many regions came together to defend their country.