1
00:00:01,034 --> 00:00:03,594
I am Uhtred, son of Uhtred.
2
00:00:03,670 --> 00:00:05,696
A great battle has been won,
3
00:00:05,806 --> 00:00:08,708
but the Saxons do not
find themselves at peace.
4
00:00:08,809 --> 00:00:12,007
You've chosen Mercia
over the Kingdom of Alfred.
5
00:00:12,112 --> 00:00:15,776
In Winchester, Lady Aelswith
has also worked to her own plan.
6
00:00:15,849 --> 00:00:19,217
You will take a message
to the Welsh king.
7
00:00:19,319 --> 00:00:23,120
And the rivalry simmers
with the new queen Aelflaed.
8
00:00:23,190 --> 00:00:26,683
Lady Aelswith was seen visiting
Edward's bastard at the monastery.
9
00:00:26,793 --> 00:00:29,957
What business has she showing
kindness to a whore and her offspring?
10
00:00:30,030 --> 00:00:32,022
Yet my part is done.
11
00:00:32,132 --> 00:00:34,328
I turned away
from Saxon conflict
12
00:00:34,401 --> 00:00:37,337
and looked to uniting
with my daughter Stiorra.
13
00:00:37,404 --> 00:00:39,839
I want to make a home
for my children to return to.
14
00:00:39,907 --> 00:00:42,001
Stiorra thrives.
15
00:00:42,075 --> 00:00:46,809
She's now grown and is at Saltwic
with Aelfwynn, Aethelflaed's daughter,
16
00:00:46,880 --> 00:00:49,816
and another child,
a mysterious boy.
17
00:00:49,883 --> 00:00:52,318
Who are your family?
18
00:00:53,020 --> 00:00:55,080
I've been told
not to answer that.
19
00:00:55,188 --> 00:00:58,249
And though I hope the
gods will allow peace,
20
00:00:58,358 --> 00:01:01,590
I fear ambitions will
lead us back to war.
21
00:01:01,695 --> 00:01:05,496
When we return to Aegelesburg,
I will publicly castrate you!
22
00:01:05,566 --> 00:01:09,662
But the heat of battle has brought
Eardwulf unexpected reward.
23
00:01:11,271 --> 00:01:13,502
Destiny is all!
24
00:01:15,000 --> 00:01:21,074
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25
00:01:57,184 --> 00:01:58,413
[guard] Open the gate!
26
00:01:59,453 --> 00:02:00,546
[gate opens]
27
00:02:00,621 --> 00:02:02,146
[horse neighs]
28
00:02:16,236 --> 00:02:17,260
[Eardwulf] Halt!
29
00:02:25,912 --> 00:02:29,679
[murmuring]
30
00:02:33,487 --> 00:02:34,511
Make way!
31
00:02:36,456 --> 00:02:37,515
[man] Gently.
32
00:02:40,260 --> 00:02:41,956
Lift him. Careful.
33
00:02:51,171 --> 00:02:53,504
Have no fear. He will recover.
34
00:03:17,798 --> 00:03:19,699
[whispers] Stop
praying for him to die.
35
00:03:20,867 --> 00:03:23,962
- We will be blamed for this.
- Not if we blame him first.
36
00:03:37,084 --> 00:03:38,347
[door opens]
37
00:03:39,853 --> 00:03:40,877
[horse snorts]
38
00:03:42,556 --> 00:03:43,888
[horse neighs]
39
00:03:44,925 --> 00:03:46,518
[metal banging]
40
00:03:47,994 --> 00:03:49,018
Stiorra!
41
00:03:49,596 --> 00:03:52,259
- Open the doors!
- Perhaps she is sleeping.
42
00:03:53,100 --> 00:03:55,535
Stiorra, wake up.
It is your father.
43
00:03:55,602 --> 00:03:57,366
[Stiorra] Stay back
and name yourselves.
44
00:03:58,038 --> 00:04:02,408
My father calls himself Uhtred
of Bebbanburg. Who are you?
45
00:04:02,509 --> 00:04:05,343
Stiorra, it is us. It really is.
46
00:04:12,352 --> 00:04:14,253
Father has defeated the Danes.
47
00:04:19,626 --> 00:04:21,219
I've come to take you home.
48
00:04:22,395 --> 00:04:25,297
- You're lucky I didn't stab you.
- [Uhtred chuckles]
49
00:04:26,600 --> 00:04:28,535
[both laugh]
50
00:04:33,473 --> 00:04:36,807
The battle was never close. We
would not have left you in danger.
51
00:04:36,910 --> 00:04:38,902
There have been rumors
of retreating fighters.
52
00:04:38,979 --> 00:04:40,743
We made a plan if
we were attacked.
53
00:04:41,481 --> 00:04:44,110
- Where's my daughter?
- Aelfwynn!
54
00:04:45,752 --> 00:04:49,280
- [Stiorra] Aelfwynn, your mother is here!
- [bird chirping]
55
00:04:53,894 --> 00:04:54,918
Mother!
56
00:04:56,429 --> 00:04:57,453
I've missed you!
57
00:04:58,298 --> 00:04:59,630
Oh, I've missed you too!
58
00:05:01,067 --> 00:05:03,298
Aethelstan! You can come out.
59
00:05:03,837 --> 00:05:05,772
Cnut has been sent to hell!
60
00:05:09,676 --> 00:05:10,939
Who's the boy?
61
00:05:11,745 --> 00:05:12,906
I am no one.
62
00:05:14,648 --> 00:05:16,480
I will explain later.
63
00:05:19,252 --> 00:05:22,245
Father, when do we ride
home to Coccham? Tonight?
64
00:05:22,322 --> 00:05:24,791
No, but soon, once
the peace is secure.
65
00:05:24,858 --> 00:05:28,420
Please! I'm too old to be
stuck here with children!
66
00:05:28,495 --> 00:05:29,519
Stiorra!
67
00:05:30,263 --> 00:05:31,629
[Stiorra sighs]
68
00:05:34,968 --> 00:05:36,027
[door opens]
69
00:05:38,471 --> 00:05:40,997
[Finan] Lord Aldhelm
approaches from the road.
70
00:05:54,554 --> 00:05:55,988
[Aldhelm sighs]
71
00:05:56,056 --> 00:05:58,457
Lady, Aethelred is injured.
72
00:05:59,059 --> 00:06:00,357
Some are saying fatally.
73
00:06:02,362 --> 00:06:04,058
There's a rumor he
will not last the week.
74
00:06:04,164 --> 00:06:05,723
- We must go to him.
- Tomorrow.
75
00:06:05,832 --> 00:06:09,178
- These roads are too dangerous at night...
- We must speak to him and the Ealdormen.
76
00:06:09,202 --> 00:06:10,966
No plan has been
made for the succession.
77
00:06:11,037 --> 00:06:12,972
Lady, the mood amongst
the Ealdormen is ugly.
78
00:06:14,140 --> 00:06:16,740
Those who survived the massacre
blame Aethelred for deserting them
79
00:06:16,843 --> 00:06:18,963
and denounce your brother
for not coming to their aid.
80
00:06:19,379 --> 00:06:21,041
Does this anger
extend to Aethelflaed?
81
00:06:23,383 --> 00:06:24,476
I don't know.
82
00:06:27,654 --> 00:06:29,714
- We ride at first light.
- [Aldhelm] Lady.
83
00:06:29,823 --> 00:06:32,418
[Uhtred] Stiorra, take the
children and secure yourselves.
84
00:06:32,525 --> 00:06:34,221
Open the door to no one but us.
85
00:06:34,327 --> 00:06:36,489
Why? You said the
Danes were defeated?
86
00:06:36,563 --> 00:06:39,089
- It is not just the Danes we have to fear.
- What?
87
00:06:39,199 --> 00:06:41,259
How much longer will
I live like a prisoner?
88
00:06:41,368 --> 00:06:43,360
She is young to take
on such a burden.
89
00:06:43,436 --> 00:06:45,996
You were betrothed by
her age and suffered worse.
90
00:06:46,072 --> 00:06:49,042
They will remain secure until
the new threats have passed.
91
00:06:51,611 --> 00:06:54,046
We should not leave the
children unprotected any longer.
92
00:06:54,114 --> 00:06:55,548
My men will stay here.
93
00:06:55,615 --> 00:06:58,278
If Aethelred dies,
times will be unstable.
94
00:06:59,252 --> 00:07:01,585
An empty throne provokes
more trouble than a weak king.
95
00:07:01,688 --> 00:07:05,181
Our traditions are strong. The
Ealdormen will choose a wise successor.
96
00:07:05,258 --> 00:07:07,784
And what if that successor
seeks to have you removed?
97
00:07:07,894 --> 00:07:09,954
Widows are rarely
welcome in times of change.
98
00:07:10,063 --> 00:07:12,362
- Look at your mother.
- Mercia is my home.
99
00:07:12,432 --> 00:07:16,528
Yet you have no formal protection
here, no son or father to speak for you.
100
00:07:16,603 --> 00:07:18,299
At best, they will
send you to a nunnery
101
00:07:18,405 --> 00:07:20,874
and marry your daughter
to the highest bidder.
102
00:07:20,941 --> 00:07:23,570
No! Aelfwynn will not
suffer because of this.
103
00:07:23,643 --> 00:07:25,043
So leave.
104
00:07:26,212 --> 00:07:29,080
And come to Coccham,
where I can protect you both.
105
00:07:29,149 --> 00:07:30,208
[Aethelflaed sighs]
106
00:07:30,917 --> 00:07:33,716
Unless you want to live a
life of prayer and chastity.
107
00:07:33,787 --> 00:07:36,222
The Ealdormen
will not turn on us.
108
00:07:36,289 --> 00:07:39,316
Battle does not always
bring reward, Aethelflaed.
109
00:07:39,426 --> 00:07:40,894
This much I have learned.
110
00:07:50,637 --> 00:07:54,301
[breathes heavily]
111
00:08:01,948 --> 00:08:04,247
[Ealdormen
whispering indistinctly]
112
00:08:09,289 --> 00:08:10,951
Why do the Ealdormen circle?
113
00:08:12,859 --> 00:08:14,350
How long have I been sleeping?
114
00:08:15,428 --> 00:08:17,124
Since the day of
the battle, Lord.
115
00:08:17,197 --> 00:08:19,257
- You fell and injured your head.
- Did we win?
116
00:08:21,267 --> 00:08:22,667
I remember very little.
117
00:08:25,005 --> 00:08:29,670
We did. We returned from East Anglia
and sent the Danes running to the sea.
118
00:08:31,444 --> 00:08:33,208
[gasps and breathes heavily]
119
00:08:37,017 --> 00:08:39,885
Who in the name of God
advised that we go to East Anglia?
120
00:08:42,655 --> 00:08:43,679
Um...
121
00:08:44,357 --> 00:08:45,381
You did.
122
00:08:46,626 --> 00:08:49,460
Then news came of the invasion
and we returned to protect our people.
123
00:08:49,529 --> 00:08:52,021
After hundreds had
already been slaughtered.
124
00:08:54,534 --> 00:08:56,799
I remember arriving
at the battle...
125
00:08:58,505 --> 00:09:00,337
but I...
126
00:09:06,312 --> 00:09:09,339
- Am I to recover?
- [Eardwulf] I'm assured that you will.
127
00:09:15,155 --> 00:09:17,249
[gasps and breathes heavily]
128
00:09:19,325 --> 00:09:22,022
Why do you lie to him
when he is certain to die?
129
00:09:22,095 --> 00:09:24,326
I ease him in his time of need.
130
00:09:25,532 --> 00:09:27,592
More like in his
time of judgment.
131
00:09:27,700 --> 00:09:30,363
What is this but punishment
for greed and ambition.
132
00:09:30,437 --> 00:09:33,498
- Burgred.
- He left us to face the Danes alone.
133
00:09:34,441 --> 00:09:36,569
Took all the defenses
we had and for what?
134
00:09:36,676 --> 00:09:39,236
A few miles of marshland
barely able to yield a crop?
135
00:09:39,345 --> 00:09:40,369
Burgred.
136
00:09:40,447 --> 00:09:43,508
I will speak for I have
nothing else to lose!
137
00:09:44,117 --> 00:09:46,552
My eldest, pulled
from my hands, be...
138
00:09:48,521 --> 00:09:49,614
beheaded.
139
00:09:51,291 --> 00:09:53,385
My youngest and my wife beaten.
140
00:09:53,460 --> 00:09:58,797
Men of honor paraded and
humiliated, and no one came to help us!
141
00:09:58,898 --> 00:10:00,594
And yet we survived.
142
00:10:00,700 --> 00:10:03,693
I will not honor him.
143
00:10:05,472 --> 00:10:08,772
And nor should you, Burgred,
not after all that you've suffered.
144
00:10:10,443 --> 00:10:14,471
Suffice to say that I did all I could
to persuade him to return sooner...
145
00:10:15,648 --> 00:10:16,775
but I failed.
146
00:10:17,383 --> 00:10:21,878
Trust me, the Mercian
Guard feel your loss deeply.
147
00:10:34,234 --> 00:10:36,760
Aldhelm, have you
spoken with the Ealdormen?
148
00:10:36,836 --> 00:10:38,600
There's to be a Witan
with the survivors.
149
00:10:38,671 --> 00:10:40,401
Perhaps I will address them.
150
00:10:40,473 --> 00:10:43,409
They can thank me for
bringing Cnut to the field.
151
00:10:43,476 --> 00:10:46,674
- Perhaps you should remain here.
- You do not want me with you?
152
00:10:46,779 --> 00:10:49,613
[Ludeca speaks
angrily and indistinctly]
153
00:10:49,682 --> 00:10:53,949
Times are feverish. Now is a
moment for calm negotiation.
154
00:10:54,020 --> 00:10:56,148
The men who play
politics always say that.
155
00:10:57,423 --> 00:10:59,983
And then they come
running for my help. [sighs]
156
00:11:04,531 --> 00:11:08,662
I demand you do not leave the
room. We are in love, are we not?
157
00:11:14,541 --> 00:11:17,705
Did he mention my mistake? Does
he blame me for our late return?
158
00:11:17,810 --> 00:11:21,212
- [whispers] He has not spoken of you.
- Good. Perhaps he's forgotten.
159
00:11:21,314 --> 00:11:22,782
If he has, it will
not be for long.
160
00:11:22,849 --> 00:11:26,217
- We should leave before his mind repairs.
- No, we will stay until he dies.
161
00:11:26,319 --> 00:11:28,811
There is an opportunity
to regain our influence.
162
00:11:28,888 --> 00:11:30,356
- Brother, no...
- No, listen.
163
00:11:30,456 --> 00:11:33,688
The Mercian Guard are loyal to me,
and the Ealdormen are against him.
164
00:11:33,793 --> 00:11:35,989
Groups are forming
as the ravens circle.
165
00:11:37,463 --> 00:11:41,127
- I could be a peacemaker between them.
- Brother, this is madness.
166
00:11:41,201 --> 00:11:43,466
We've played with fire
and found ourselves burnt.
167
00:11:44,237 --> 00:11:45,500
Lady Aethelflaed.
168
00:11:46,573 --> 00:11:48,974
- Are you the woman who is healing him?
- No.
169
00:11:49,042 --> 00:11:50,806
Merely sitting by his side.
170
00:11:51,211 --> 00:11:52,304
My name is Eadith.
171
00:11:54,581 --> 00:11:55,844
I've heard your name.
172
00:11:57,850 --> 00:12:01,378
You must be her brother whose
late entry into battle helped us prevail.
173
00:12:02,021 --> 00:12:04,718
- Our actions were decisive, Lady.
- If a little delayed.
174
00:12:05,558 --> 00:12:07,493
- I'd like to speak to my husband alone.
- Lady.
175
00:12:07,560 --> 00:12:08,926
I command the Mercian Guard.
176
00:12:09,028 --> 00:12:11,497
- I only take orders from Lord Aethelred.
- Lady.
177
00:12:11,564 --> 00:12:13,055
[Ealdorman] Lady Aethelflaed.
178
00:12:14,867 --> 00:12:18,235
Are you questioning whether I
know the mind of my own husband?
179
00:12:19,572 --> 00:12:23,009
No, of course not.
We will withdraw.
180
00:12:25,345 --> 00:12:28,907
[footsteps receding]
181
00:12:30,416 --> 00:12:31,748
[softly] Aethelflaed.
182
00:12:33,052 --> 00:12:34,680
I must be dying if you're here.
183
00:12:35,255 --> 00:12:37,690
I am certain God will
restore you to health.
184
00:12:39,392 --> 00:12:40,951
I fear that may not be true.
185
00:12:42,395 --> 00:12:45,559
Priests have prayed over me
as though preparing the final rites.
186
00:12:47,567 --> 00:12:48,728
[sighs]
187
00:12:49,369 --> 00:12:50,564
They will not meet my eye.
188
00:12:52,038 --> 00:12:53,301
And nor will you.
189
00:12:55,942 --> 00:12:56,966
Why have you come?
190
00:12:58,111 --> 00:12:59,443
To revel in my suffering?
191
00:13:02,548 --> 00:13:05,484
I am concerned about
the fate of our daughter,
192
00:13:05,585 --> 00:13:07,713
should you be taken from us.
193
00:13:09,422 --> 00:13:13,120
Without a father to protect her, I wish
to ensure she is not further abused.
194
00:13:14,827 --> 00:13:18,628
- You have treated her most unkindly.
- That's because she is not my daughter.
195
00:13:19,565 --> 00:13:21,796
I may struggle to
remember, but that I know.
196
00:13:21,901 --> 00:13:25,394
So, you must also know the
people regard her as your daughter.
197
00:13:25,471 --> 00:13:29,465
- She is rather fair for a Mercian...
- And that consequently,
198
00:13:29,575 --> 00:13:32,909
they will seek her hand to
support their claim to your title.
199
00:13:34,247 --> 00:13:35,613
So, what is it that you want?
200
00:13:35,682 --> 00:13:39,619
At the very least, you agree not to
betroth her to some heartless fool.
201
00:13:40,953 --> 00:13:42,012
As you were?
202
00:13:45,591 --> 00:13:48,789
Our union brought us
misery, and the people knew it.
203
00:13:49,962 --> 00:13:52,830
It created a crack in Mercia
that did not serve it well.
204
00:13:54,267 --> 00:13:57,294
The Ealdormen of marriageable
age were all slaughtered...
205
00:13:58,304 --> 00:13:59,704
the best of them taken.
206
00:14:01,641 --> 00:14:04,338
There's a danger dishonorable
hands will try to grasp her.
207
00:14:06,279 --> 00:14:08,942
- So?
- So, allow me to choose someone suitable
208
00:14:09,015 --> 00:14:11,780
and I promise you,
this kingdom will thrive.
209
00:14:17,290 --> 00:14:20,783
I agree. You should
approve the match.
210
00:14:23,730 --> 00:14:26,393
If only you were as faithful
to me as you are to Mercia.
211
00:14:28,501 --> 00:14:31,733
If you had not treated me with so
much cruelty since our wedding night,
212
00:14:31,838 --> 00:14:34,637
perhaps things could have
been very different between us.
213
00:14:42,382 --> 00:14:45,716
If you fear death, now is the
moment to ask for forgiveness.
214
00:14:49,922 --> 00:14:51,550
Who ordained you confessor?
215
00:14:56,863 --> 00:14:59,094
Then let it be between
you and your God.
216
00:15:00,500 --> 00:15:03,197
May he weigh you in the
balance for all you have done.
217
00:15:03,836 --> 00:15:05,896
[footsteps receding]
218
00:15:07,073 --> 00:15:08,268
Aethelflaed!
219
00:15:11,244 --> 00:15:13,713
I know that I have not
always treated you kindly.
220
00:15:14,547 --> 00:15:15,571
For that, I am sorry.
221
00:15:18,885 --> 00:15:21,684
I was younger and more foolish.
222
00:15:24,891 --> 00:15:29,261
And, as for you, I hope that
you can find some comfort.
223
00:15:34,066 --> 00:15:36,126
To live without being
loved is a torture.
224
00:15:41,574 --> 00:15:44,066
Which is why you acted
with so much cruelty?
225
00:15:59,959 --> 00:16:03,225
[men shouting indistinctly]
226
00:16:09,802 --> 00:16:13,432
If I may say, Lord King,
I think this is unwise.
227
00:16:13,506 --> 00:16:18,774
Injured or not, Aethelred will be
held to account for abandoning Mercia.
228
00:16:18,845 --> 00:16:22,612
I say let them drown in a
turmoil of their own making.
229
00:16:22,682 --> 00:16:25,151
Turned out well for us
last time, leaving them to it.
230
00:16:25,918 --> 00:16:27,477
Until the enormous battle.
231
00:16:27,587 --> 00:16:30,022
Indeed, Father Pyrlig
knows how to win battles.
232
00:16:30,122 --> 00:16:31,283
[chuckles]
233
00:16:31,357 --> 00:16:32,518
We won the war.
234
00:16:32,992 --> 00:16:35,154
Now we must help
bring about the peace.
235
00:16:35,995 --> 00:16:38,328
Mercia does not need
any more instability.
236
00:16:39,131 --> 00:16:43,000
- And what about the people of Winchester?
- Indeed.
237
00:16:43,870 --> 00:16:47,432
Have my mother publicly rebuked
for raising King Hywel's army.
238
00:16:47,507 --> 00:16:50,170
She must learn her
interference brings a cost.
239
00:17:00,486 --> 00:17:01,954
- Cenric!
- Lord.
240
00:17:03,823 --> 00:17:06,725
Have our men directed
here to help rebuild the town.
241
00:17:06,826 --> 00:17:08,852
- Lord.
- The Mercians are proud people.
242
00:17:08,961 --> 00:17:11,123
I doubt they will want our help.
243
00:17:11,197 --> 00:17:13,723
We will not ignore
their plight again.
244
00:17:18,971 --> 00:17:20,667
[Ealdormen argue]
245
00:17:20,740 --> 00:17:24,006
[Burgred] Our Lord will not recover!
We should not delay the decision!
246
00:17:24,076 --> 00:17:27,069
[Ludeca] We are too
few to pass a decision!
247
00:17:27,179 --> 00:17:31,674
We should wait until other Ealdormen
have arrived from all parts of Mercia!
248
00:17:31,751 --> 00:17:34,311
That is how it has been
done and shall continue!
249
00:17:34,387 --> 00:17:37,687
- But the matter is pressing, Ludeca.
- Yes!
250
00:17:37,757 --> 00:17:39,555
And the next successor is clear.
251
00:17:39,659 --> 00:17:41,184
[Ealdormen argue]
252
00:17:41,260 --> 00:17:43,991
My younger son's claim is
strong through his uncle...
253
00:17:44,063 --> 00:17:49,229
and he is untainted by a
connection to disloyal Wessex.
254
00:17:49,335 --> 00:17:51,861
Your son is too young, Burgred.
255
00:17:51,938 --> 00:17:53,167
Oh, come on!
256
00:17:53,239 --> 00:17:57,404
If the worst should befall our
Kingdom, we will need a man of wisdom!
257
00:17:57,510 --> 00:17:58,773
Oh, wisdom!
258
00:17:58,878 --> 00:18:01,109
And who would you
be thinking of, Ludeca?
259
00:18:01,914 --> 00:18:05,009
He may yet be well enough to
announce his own successor.
260
00:18:05,084 --> 00:18:07,519
We should speak to
them. They talk in circles.
261
00:18:07,587 --> 00:18:10,921
- They will not offer me a chance to speak.
- They can refuse you?
262
00:18:11,023 --> 00:18:13,549
They say I should be
at Aethelred's bedside.
263
00:18:16,128 --> 00:18:18,620
Tell me it is less
disordered than it looks.
264
00:18:18,731 --> 00:18:19,755
I cannot.
265
00:18:19,865 --> 00:18:24,064
There is division. There is anger.
They think Wessex has abandoned them.
266
00:18:25,204 --> 00:18:28,868
And there is talk that they
do not honor the union.
267
00:18:32,078 --> 00:18:33,876
As in Mercia break from Wessex?
268
00:18:33,946 --> 00:18:36,040
- [Aldhelm] Some are saying that, yes.
- [sighs]
269
00:18:36,115 --> 00:18:40,576
Then we must appease them. I understand
their frustrations with my husband,
270
00:18:40,653 --> 00:18:43,282
but to sever Saxon
unity would hurt us all.
271
00:18:44,924 --> 00:18:46,654
We must remain united.
272
00:18:47,760 --> 00:18:49,752
[healer chants prayer]
273
00:18:49,829 --> 00:18:52,958
[Aethelred pants]
274
00:19:01,907 --> 00:19:04,103
Lord Aethelred, I
heard you were injured.
275
00:19:06,145 --> 00:19:07,169
Yes, I...
276
00:19:09,115 --> 00:19:10,845
Forgive me if I do not get up.
277
00:19:13,419 --> 00:19:14,751
They told me that...
278
00:19:25,364 --> 00:19:27,026
Has your father sent you?
279
00:19:30,102 --> 00:19:31,468
What...
280
00:19:39,211 --> 00:19:41,442
He will be in his shroud
before the week is out.
281
00:19:41,514 --> 00:19:45,952
You must act decisively to install
someone here before chaos breaks out.
282
00:19:46,018 --> 00:19:48,146
His successor is
decided by the Ealdormen.
283
00:19:48,220 --> 00:19:50,451
And who decides what
the Ealdormen decide?
284
00:19:50,523 --> 00:19:52,389
I cannot simply
march into Mercia
285
00:19:52,491 --> 00:19:54,790
and tell them how to
conduct their affairs.
286
00:19:54,860 --> 00:19:57,022
I've not been as attentive
to them as I should have.
287
00:19:57,129 --> 00:20:01,066
Fortunately, you are already
here. So, no marching is required.
288
00:20:01,167 --> 00:20:03,363
Danish survivors have
been spotted heading east.
289
00:20:03,469 --> 00:20:05,495
Should we send a
band to capture them?
290
00:20:06,572 --> 00:20:10,407
No, all forces must
come here to Aegelesburg.
291
00:20:16,415 --> 00:20:18,407
- Are those the Ealdormen?
- Yes.
292
00:20:18,517 --> 00:20:20,679
What do we know of
them and their intentions?
293
00:20:20,753 --> 00:20:23,222
Those two reckon they
have a chance to take the title.
294
00:20:23,889 --> 00:20:26,358
The gray-haired one,
Ludeca, wants the kingdom
295
00:20:26,425 --> 00:20:27,916
and hasn't the
balls to fight for it.
296
00:20:28,494 --> 00:20:32,693
The other, Burgred, wants it for his son,
but no one likes him enough to say yes.
297
00:20:32,765 --> 00:20:37,169
Could this son be betrothed
to your niece Lady Aelfwynn?
298
00:20:37,236 --> 00:20:39,899
Bring a successor under your
wing with a family connection?
299
00:20:40,005 --> 00:20:41,701
It worked for your father.
300
00:20:41,774 --> 00:20:44,107
A child on the throne
will not bring security.
301
00:20:44,210 --> 00:20:47,078
Let us meet with the
older Ealdorman Ludeca.
302
00:20:47,179 --> 00:20:51,014
He is likely to be the most reasonable.
First, I must speak with my sister.
303
00:21:00,860 --> 00:21:01,884
Lord?
304
00:21:04,396 --> 00:21:06,558
It appears there might
be new turbulence.
305
00:21:06,632 --> 00:21:09,796
Tell the Wessex Guards
to settle within the walls.
306
00:21:10,269 --> 00:21:11,862
- Of course.
- Oh.
307
00:21:11,937 --> 00:21:15,237
And that command to
punish the King's mother,
308
00:21:15,307 --> 00:21:18,106
that is an order you
yourself could undertake?
309
00:21:18,210 --> 00:21:20,475
Was punishment what
the King commanded?
310
00:21:20,579 --> 00:21:24,539
It's what he wants but
cannot order directly.
311
00:21:25,417 --> 00:21:30,287
He feels the Lady
Aelswith needs... containing.
312
00:21:38,230 --> 00:21:40,256
Brother, you have heard
of my husband's injury?
313
00:21:40,332 --> 00:21:44,326
Yes, I've seen him. Should he die,
what are the plans for the succession?
314
00:21:44,436 --> 00:21:46,735
It is not clear. The Ealdormen
are much diminished.
315
00:21:46,806 --> 00:21:48,798
There is talk of a
break from Wessex.
316
00:21:49,975 --> 00:21:52,638
They wish to abandon the alliance
between Wessex and Mercia.
317
00:21:52,745 --> 00:21:55,026
- They feel you have abandoned them.
- That cannot happen.
318
00:21:55,514 --> 00:21:57,107
If Tettenhall has
taught us anything,
319
00:21:57,183 --> 00:22:00,153
it is that the two kingdoms stand
stronger when they are together.
320
00:22:00,252 --> 00:22:01,982
- I know...
- I cannot preside over
321
00:22:02,087 --> 00:22:03,419
the breaking of our alliance
322
00:22:03,489 --> 00:22:06,755
and I will not allow the
fracturing of our father's dream!
323
00:22:10,362 --> 00:22:13,093
We will betroth the Lady
Aelfwynn to the successor
324
00:22:13,165 --> 00:22:14,827
and seal the bond
between our lands.
325
00:22:14,934 --> 00:22:18,200
In return for the strength she'll
bring to their claim in Mercia,
326
00:22:18,304 --> 00:22:20,102
we will ask they
are loyal to Wessex.
327
00:22:20,172 --> 00:22:22,767
I agree with the idea,
but it is not that simple.
328
00:22:22,842 --> 00:22:25,334
The best of the young
Ealdormen have been slaughtered.
329
00:22:25,444 --> 00:22:26,503
There's no one suitable.
330
00:22:26,612 --> 00:22:28,478
Then we will find
someone suitable.
331
00:22:28,547 --> 00:22:31,381
Lord King, the men who remain
are not well disposed to you.
332
00:22:31,483 --> 00:22:33,923
- There's no obvious choice.
- Where is the Lady Aelfwynn now?
333
00:22:33,953 --> 00:22:35,512
Safe at Saltwic with my men.
334
00:22:35,621 --> 00:22:37,332
Bring her here and
we will settle the matter.
335
00:22:37,356 --> 00:22:40,849
No! We will settle the matter
and then we will bring her here.
336
00:22:40,960 --> 00:22:42,292
Aegelesburg is volatile.
337
00:22:42,361 --> 00:22:44,660
Surely it is best if
she is with her family.
338
00:22:44,730 --> 00:22:46,722
She's too young
to be used as bait.
339
00:22:49,668 --> 00:22:53,469
Find me the right suitor and we
will make haste to arrange a match.
340
00:22:54,139 --> 00:22:57,473
I promise you, brother, this alliance
means as much to me as it does to you.
341
00:22:59,578 --> 00:23:00,807
Bring the Ealdormen to me.
342
00:23:02,014 --> 00:23:04,142
Have no fear, I
will resolve this.
343
00:23:07,686 --> 00:23:09,484
Keep an eye on the
Ealdormen yourself.
344
00:23:09,555 --> 00:23:12,252
I will find out how long
Edward intends to stay.
345
00:23:12,358 --> 00:23:16,159
My brother is finally trying to enact
my father's will. We should welcome this.
346
00:23:16,228 --> 00:23:18,891
I know, but his
authority is under threat
347
00:23:18,998 --> 00:23:21,661
and men under threat do
not always act with wisdom.
348
00:23:21,734 --> 00:23:25,068
[footsteps receding]
349
00:23:30,009 --> 00:23:33,173
Show respect for the
fallen of Tettenhall!
350
00:23:45,758 --> 00:23:48,455
[woman gasps and sobs]
351
00:23:48,560 --> 00:23:51,928
[sobs]
352
00:23:56,135 --> 00:23:58,468
Your sacrifice will
not be forgotten.
353
00:24:03,242 --> 00:24:06,212
You must pay your respects,
Aelfweard. Come with me.
354
00:24:09,481 --> 00:24:12,576
He is too young to be
displayed before the people.
355
00:24:12,651 --> 00:24:14,483
If he's to send men to war,
356
00:24:14,586 --> 00:24:18,751
as the future king of Wessex,
he must know the consequences.
357
00:24:26,665 --> 00:24:28,463
I will not try and
woo King Edward!
358
00:24:28,567 --> 00:24:32,129
I'm not asking you to hump him,
merely ingratiate yourself, as will I.
359
00:24:32,237 --> 00:24:34,229
Why would we try a plan
that has failed before?
360
00:24:34,306 --> 00:24:36,571
Has it failed? We're in
the palace, are we not?
361
00:24:36,642 --> 00:24:38,508
By luck, nothing more.
362
00:24:38,610 --> 00:24:41,842
- You're giving up too easily.
- And you are living a fantasy.
363
00:24:41,947 --> 00:24:45,008
Take this opportunity
and escape.
364
00:24:45,117 --> 00:24:46,949
Go back to having nothing?
365
00:24:47,019 --> 00:24:50,251
And avoid the turmoil that
will unfold when Aethelred dies.
366
00:24:50,322 --> 00:24:54,623
I am mistress to a dead king.
You are the favorite of a dead king.
367
00:24:54,693 --> 00:24:56,787
Since when have
such people thrived?
368
00:24:56,862 --> 00:24:58,990
Edward is not
foolish like Aethelred.
369
00:24:59,098 --> 00:25:02,091
Please, brother, see
what is real and what is not.
370
00:25:03,936 --> 00:25:05,768
For a whore, you lack ambition.
371
00:25:08,040 --> 00:25:11,204
- What did you say?
- Every plan we've made, you've agreed to.
372
00:25:12,111 --> 00:25:16,105
You cannot choose to play and then
run, when it gets a little dangerous.
373
00:25:16,181 --> 00:25:19,117
[Uhtred] Aethelflaed.
[breathes heavily]
374
00:25:19,184 --> 00:25:21,813
Edward has ordered all
his troops to Aegelesburg.
375
00:25:21,887 --> 00:25:23,446
He is just being cautious.
376
00:25:23,522 --> 00:25:25,218
Or he's expecting a fight.
377
00:25:25,324 --> 00:25:28,556
There will be no fight,
because we will find a resolution.
378
00:25:29,294 --> 00:25:32,492
Trust him. He knows now not to
put one kingdom before the other.
379
00:25:32,564 --> 00:25:35,625
[Eadith] I am going to Francia
before your insanity drowns us both!
380
00:25:35,701 --> 00:25:38,830
You will go nowhere
without my permission!
381
00:25:39,571 --> 00:25:40,971
Is all well, Lady?
382
00:25:42,074 --> 00:25:43,201
Yes.
383
00:25:43,976 --> 00:25:47,071
He is my brother and it is
just a foolish disagreement.
384
00:25:48,514 --> 00:25:49,709
My husband is asking for you.
385
00:25:50,916 --> 00:25:52,350
Attend to him, please.
386
00:25:58,857 --> 00:26:00,985
What kind of a man
treats his sister this way?
387
00:26:03,562 --> 00:26:05,827
[footsteps receding]
388
00:26:07,332 --> 00:26:09,324
Aethelred has soured this place.
389
00:26:11,670 --> 00:26:12,729
Then leave.
390
00:26:14,406 --> 00:26:16,068
You do not have to do this.
391
00:26:17,242 --> 00:26:20,542
If we went with you, they would
follow and drag us back in shame.
392
00:26:20,612 --> 00:26:22,212
Then we go further
than they can follow.
393
00:26:22,281 --> 00:26:25,080
North, to the edge of
the Danelaw. Ceaster.
394
00:26:25,584 --> 00:26:27,382
The road to Ceaster
is too dangerous.
395
00:26:27,453 --> 00:26:30,048
But if we made it,
it has Roman walls.
396
00:26:31,023 --> 00:26:32,355
It can be defended.
397
00:26:38,363 --> 00:26:40,628
I want to, Uhtred...
398
00:26:43,035 --> 00:26:45,129
to live in peace by your side...
399
00:26:46,805 --> 00:26:48,933
to raise my daughter in safety.
400
00:26:50,042 --> 00:26:52,568
Nothing would bring
me greater happiness.
401
00:26:54,646 --> 00:26:56,706
But if we left, we
could never return.
402
00:26:57,783 --> 00:27:01,220
We cannot let them destroy
all we have fought for.
403
00:27:09,361 --> 00:27:13,128
[clatter of hammering]
404
00:27:13,232 --> 00:27:15,133
[indistinct chattering]
405
00:27:23,408 --> 00:27:26,742
This is a generous
gesture, Lord King.
406
00:27:26,812 --> 00:27:28,804
I know I speak for
the people of Mercia
407
00:27:28,914 --> 00:27:32,112
when I say we are
grateful for your men's labor.
408
00:27:32,184 --> 00:27:36,178
Come on, men! Let our friends
from Wessex see our strength!
409
00:27:36,288 --> 00:27:38,018
[man] Ladies of
Wessex, don't pout.
410
00:27:38,824 --> 00:27:40,315
Is this intended as a slight?
411
00:27:41,493 --> 00:27:42,927
Oh, no, Lord King.
412
00:27:42,995 --> 00:27:45,794
He merely strives to
redeem his family name
413
00:27:45,864 --> 00:27:47,355
and I, for one,
look on it kindly.
414
00:27:47,766 --> 00:27:51,635
His father lost his lands in
very undignified circumstances.
415
00:27:51,703 --> 00:27:54,798
He merely has the drive
of one tainted by disgrace.
416
00:27:55,374 --> 00:27:56,501
Eardwulf?
417
00:28:00,779 --> 00:28:03,339
I believe you pulled me
to safety during the battle.
418
00:28:03,949 --> 00:28:06,976
Yes, Lord King, I did,
something I'd do for any warrior.
419
00:28:07,853 --> 00:28:11,620
Tell me, how are the Mercian
Guard minded on the succession
420
00:28:11,690 --> 00:28:13,283
should your Lord
depart this life?
421
00:28:14,660 --> 00:28:15,855
They have no view on it.
422
00:28:16,795 --> 00:28:19,560
They're loyal to the leader
of Mercia, whoever that is.
423
00:28:20,999 --> 00:28:23,366
They have little
time for politics, but...
424
00:28:23,468 --> 00:28:26,302
They're good men who
respond to strong leadership.
425
00:28:29,575 --> 00:28:33,410
Well, I thank you for your honesty
and your action on the battlefield.
426
00:28:36,148 --> 00:28:37,377
Lord King!
427
00:28:38,550 --> 00:28:42,749
On behalf of my people, I demand that
you remove your troops from Aegelesburg.
428
00:28:44,256 --> 00:28:47,749
I will not abandon Mercia,
when she is in need.
429
00:28:47,859 --> 00:28:50,260
It's clearly a provocative
show of strength!
430
00:28:50,996 --> 00:28:53,397
I know that you
are a man in grief,
431
00:28:53,498 --> 00:28:57,094
but may I suggest you remove
yourself from the King's presence.
432
00:29:03,609 --> 00:29:04,668
Gladly.
433
00:29:05,844 --> 00:29:07,369
I've had my fill of Wessex.
434
00:29:09,615 --> 00:29:13,416
There are ways to make men
Lord of Mercia without the Witan.
435
00:29:13,518 --> 00:29:14,884
You seek to control us...
436
00:29:18,223 --> 00:29:19,452
and I will use them.
437
00:29:25,764 --> 00:29:28,199
I fear these are
not vacant threats.
438
00:29:28,967 --> 00:29:32,096
Burgred will do something foolish
to place his son on the throne.
439
00:29:32,771 --> 00:29:35,297
Has he not lost
one child already?
440
00:29:35,407 --> 00:29:38,138
Aethelred is fading, Lord.
441
00:29:38,810 --> 00:29:39,903
Time is pressing.
442
00:29:46,051 --> 00:29:50,079
- What do you make of Ludeca?
- He cares deeply for peace, which is good.
443
00:29:50,155 --> 00:29:54,593
But he also cares deeply for Mercia,
which may lead us into conflict in time.
444
00:29:56,061 --> 00:29:59,293
He seems a man
of piety and reason.
445
00:29:59,398 --> 00:30:02,425
But how old will he be when
Aelfwynn is of age to produce an heir?
446
00:30:03,602 --> 00:30:07,471
He is not much older than I am
and I am still active in the field.
447
00:30:08,106 --> 00:30:09,768
Aethelflaed will not like it.
448
00:30:09,841 --> 00:30:14,472
With respect, your sister
needs to start doing as she's told.
449
00:30:16,648 --> 00:30:20,608
That man Eardwulf, he seems
respected by his warriors.
450
00:30:21,620 --> 00:30:24,112
He is younger and we
know him to be brave.
451
00:30:24,189 --> 00:30:25,623
But he's not an Ealdorman.
452
00:30:26,258 --> 00:30:27,920
Find out what you can about him.
453
00:30:29,094 --> 00:30:33,293
[men shouting]
454
00:30:45,210 --> 00:30:46,838
Do not ask me!
455
00:30:48,013 --> 00:30:49,311
What is Edward planning?
456
00:30:49,381 --> 00:30:51,509
I do not know, and I've
had enough of politics!
457
00:30:53,151 --> 00:30:57,384
You got in trouble for raising the
Welsh? You did what was needed.
458
00:30:57,489 --> 00:31:00,948
Did I? Hundreds
dead, Mercia in turmoil!
459
00:31:01,026 --> 00:31:04,724
- It turned the tide against the Danes.
- And led to new chaos and new divisions!
460
00:31:04,830 --> 00:31:08,961
Look how the people turn on each other.
This is what happens when kings weaken.
461
00:31:09,034 --> 00:31:11,799
The lines of command are broken
and the people on the streets suffer.
462
00:31:11,870 --> 00:31:15,898
Nonetheless, I need you to find out what
Edward is planning to do with his troops.
463
00:31:16,007 --> 00:31:20,536
No. I'm a man who speaks the truth,
or at my worst, a man who uses his fists.
464
00:31:20,645 --> 00:31:23,137
I was not built for
spying and betrayal!
465
00:31:23,215 --> 00:31:24,740
[sighs] I'll leave you.
466
00:31:27,386 --> 00:31:28,649
Beocca warned me.
467
00:31:29,688 --> 00:31:32,749
He said I might have to choose
between my conscience and my King.
468
00:31:34,059 --> 00:31:37,154
But what if it was a message
to be steadfast that I ignored,
469
00:31:37,229 --> 00:31:38,253
seeking my own glory?
470
00:31:41,066 --> 00:31:42,864
[inhales]
471
00:31:42,934 --> 00:31:44,562
Beocca saw things...
472
00:31:45,771 --> 00:31:47,763
more clearly
than the rest of us.
473
00:31:48,673 --> 00:31:50,198
He knew what was coming.
474
00:31:50,275 --> 00:31:53,074
[inhales and exhales slowly]
475
00:31:53,178 --> 00:31:55,579
And he knew that you
would choose wisely.
476
00:32:06,591 --> 00:32:08,719
[grunting and snoring]
477
00:32:08,794 --> 00:32:09,887
Shut up.
478
00:32:30,649 --> 00:32:32,379
Where are you
taking these women?
479
00:32:35,220 --> 00:32:38,384
On a pilgrimage to
the shrine of Saint Wite.
480
00:32:38,457 --> 00:32:40,949
We will give thanks
for our great victory.
481
00:32:41,059 --> 00:32:44,154
You shall not leave the town. An
order has come from Aegelesburg.
482
00:32:44,996 --> 00:32:46,897
You are to be confined
as a punishment
483
00:32:46,965 --> 00:32:49,230
for raising an army
without the King's consent.
484
00:32:50,836 --> 00:32:53,772
And when was this
confinement decided?
485
00:32:53,839 --> 00:32:56,138
I've been asked to
enact the will of the King.
486
00:32:57,476 --> 00:32:59,672
Have Lady Aelswith
guarded in the Reading Room.
487
00:32:59,778 --> 00:33:01,576
[women mutter and gasp]
488
00:33:02,414 --> 00:33:03,609
Do as Cenric orders!
489
00:33:05,183 --> 00:33:06,776
Ignore this girl!
490
00:33:09,488 --> 00:33:11,957
She speaks without authority.
491
00:33:14,526 --> 00:33:18,463
- Look how she trembles!
- Do you defy the will of the King?
492
00:33:19,631 --> 00:33:21,497
You are not the King.
493
00:33:21,600 --> 00:33:24,627
No, but I am anointed Queen.
494
00:33:24,703 --> 00:33:27,673
And in Edward's absence,
my will takes precedence.
495
00:33:32,544 --> 00:33:34,012
I will not fight against it.
496
00:33:35,714 --> 00:33:39,845
I simply ask that a soldier
bring a prayer book to my room,
497
00:33:39,951 --> 00:33:41,647
so that I may reflect.
498
00:33:50,228 --> 00:33:53,995
[Ludeca] It will be resolved with
a little will on all sides. [laughs]
499
00:33:54,966 --> 00:33:56,127
Some wine...
500
00:33:59,671 --> 00:34:03,540
He is honest and good-natured,
but I am troubled by his age.
501
00:34:06,478 --> 00:34:08,344
Should I offer
Ludeca my niece...
502
00:34:08,980 --> 00:34:13,179
as a dowry in return for
a renewal of the alliance?
503
00:34:13,852 --> 00:34:16,913
That is, of course,
your decision,
504
00:34:17,022 --> 00:34:20,823
but I would follow
your instincts.
505
00:34:21,493 --> 00:34:23,428
Look to the hero of the battle.
506
00:34:25,230 --> 00:34:27,358
No more trouble in
the taverns, I hope.
507
00:34:27,432 --> 00:34:30,425
We will send men to water
down the ale, Lord King.
508
00:34:30,535 --> 00:34:32,480
Lord Aethelhelm asked
me to join you at the table.
509
00:34:32,504 --> 00:34:33,995
I did indeed, welcome.
510
00:34:36,708 --> 00:34:37,767
Continue.
511
00:34:39,210 --> 00:34:42,237
The Mercian Guard
is loyal to him.
512
00:34:42,347 --> 00:34:45,112
It would bring the fighting
force under your command.
513
00:34:46,184 --> 00:34:49,951
As you know, he's
keen to restore his name
514
00:34:50,055 --> 00:34:52,752
and he served Aethelred
with complete loyalty.
515
00:34:52,857 --> 00:34:54,849
They even called
him The Arse-licker.
516
00:34:56,595 --> 00:34:58,689
I do not want an arse-licker.
517
00:34:58,763 --> 00:35:01,927
I want a man who will
serve all of our interests.
518
00:35:02,968 --> 00:35:08,635
Yes, someone who will work with
us to achieve the peace you need.
519
00:35:08,740 --> 00:35:10,766
But the choice is yours.
520
00:35:13,612 --> 00:35:15,478
Is there more
trouble in the town?
521
00:35:15,580 --> 00:35:16,980
Does Burgred gather men?
522
00:35:17,716 --> 00:35:18,775
No.
523
00:35:19,551 --> 00:35:21,452
No, the King just
asked I sit beside you.
524
00:35:25,590 --> 00:35:28,788
It's a sign that he wishes to propose to
the Ealdormen and the Mercian Guard
525
00:35:28,893 --> 00:35:30,418
that I should be the successor.
526
00:35:36,468 --> 00:35:37,595
Do I have your loyalty?
527
00:35:40,071 --> 00:35:41,782
The Guard are loyal
to the leader of Mercia.
528
00:35:41,806 --> 00:35:42,830
Good.
529
00:35:43,408 --> 00:35:45,400
Then finally order
will be restored.
530
00:35:54,352 --> 00:35:56,947
[Aethelred breathes heavily]
531
00:35:58,289 --> 00:36:00,690
[softly] Thank you
for staying by my side.
532
00:36:01,493 --> 00:36:03,428
Your wife has commanded it.
533
00:36:04,462 --> 00:36:07,626
They all wish me
dead, do they not?
534
00:36:10,602 --> 00:36:14,334
Why? Did I do something
to offend my people?
535
00:36:19,344 --> 00:36:23,440
All of you, leave
me alone... with...
536
00:36:25,617 --> 00:36:26,812
with Eadith.
537
00:36:37,729 --> 00:36:39,288
I remembered your name.
538
00:36:43,401 --> 00:36:44,960
Were we in love?
539
00:36:46,204 --> 00:36:48,639
Though I know I regret
to see you suffer...
540
00:36:50,175 --> 00:36:52,644
I could not in truth
say that I loved you.
541
00:36:56,314 --> 00:36:58,510
If I mistreated you,
then I am sorry.
542
00:37:04,155 --> 00:37:05,885
Women are used
to being mistreated.
543
00:37:08,093 --> 00:37:09,721
We are taught to endure it.
544
00:37:10,929 --> 00:37:12,522
Will you survive without me?
545
00:37:13,732 --> 00:37:14,995
I do not know.
546
00:37:17,902 --> 00:37:20,030
I have survived a great deal.
547
00:37:20,839 --> 00:37:26,403
Tell me the truth. Am I to die?
548
00:37:33,752 --> 00:37:36,745
Prayers are being
said for you, yes.
549
00:37:38,223 --> 00:37:42,854
The rumor is that your mind
fails and you will die, Lord.
550
00:37:43,695 --> 00:37:45,186
Then I need a miracle.
551
00:37:47,899 --> 00:37:50,130
And it's not clear
that I am owed one.
552
00:37:53,104 --> 00:37:55,869
You could try praying on
the relics of our beloved Saint.
553
00:37:56,708 --> 00:38:00,577
For all your mistakes in Mercia,
gathering his bones was not one of them.
554
00:38:00,645 --> 00:38:04,309
They're in the treasury. Ask
for them to be brought to me.
555
00:38:04,415 --> 00:38:05,815
I will fetch them.
556
00:38:08,953 --> 00:38:10,888
Perhaps they will
bring you to yourself.
557
00:38:11,322 --> 00:38:13,052
Or just a scrap of luck.
558
00:38:15,760 --> 00:38:18,662
I fear that I have
much to account for.
559
00:38:27,238 --> 00:38:29,969
This reminds me of when I
drank with your father last.
560
00:38:30,074 --> 00:38:32,942
He had just secured victory
at the battle of Ethandun.
561
00:38:33,011 --> 00:38:34,741
The feasting was magnificent.
562
00:38:34,813 --> 00:38:38,648
My father always felt our two lands
thrived when we broke bread together.
563
00:38:38,750 --> 00:38:41,481
Exactly, the unity
between us is critical,
564
00:38:41,586 --> 00:38:44,681
both countries, side by
side, equal like brothers.
565
00:38:45,190 --> 00:38:47,625
But with deference
to King Edward.
566
00:38:47,692 --> 00:38:50,025
With mutual respect, yes.
567
00:38:57,335 --> 00:38:59,133
We should discuss this unity.
568
00:39:00,038 --> 00:39:01,836
And the betrothal of my niece.
569
00:39:01,940 --> 00:39:04,273
It seems wise to secure
one with the other...
570
00:39:04,976 --> 00:39:07,445
subject, of course, to the
approval of the Ealdormen.
571
00:39:08,012 --> 00:39:10,880
The Ealdormen will do my bidding.
I have them under my control.
572
00:39:11,850 --> 00:39:12,874
Hm.
573
00:39:13,785 --> 00:39:16,152
Well, as you know, Lady
Aelfwynn is dear to me.
574
00:39:16,221 --> 00:39:19,521
I should like her to be
betrothed to a man I trust.
575
00:39:19,624 --> 00:39:24,119
I agree that seems preferable. Her youth
means that she could be fertile for years.
576
00:39:24,863 --> 00:39:25,956
[glass thuds]
577
00:39:26,331 --> 00:39:28,323
[footsteps leaving]
578
00:39:28,399 --> 00:39:29,458
Yes.
579
00:39:30,335 --> 00:39:34,295
Well, obviously, we want a man
with standing in all parts of Mercia,
580
00:39:34,372 --> 00:39:36,204
someone we might see as a...
581
00:39:36,307 --> 00:39:38,185
I think the phrase you're
searching for is peacemaker.
582
00:39:38,209 --> 00:39:41,145
Someone who can unite
the divisions in Mercia.
583
00:39:42,213 --> 00:39:43,237
Indeed.
584
00:39:44,716 --> 00:39:47,049
A peacemaker for times of peace.
585
00:39:49,821 --> 00:39:51,312
Could you be such
a man, Eardwulf?
586
00:39:58,363 --> 00:39:59,888
Eardwulf is not an Ealdorman.
587
00:40:01,232 --> 00:40:02,928
His family was disgraced.
588
00:40:03,034 --> 00:40:05,162
Well, disgrace can be
reversed by royal decree.
589
00:40:10,041 --> 00:40:13,739
If you agree, all we would need
would be the approval of a Witan.
590
00:40:14,445 --> 00:40:16,573
And the Ealdormen will do
your bidding, will they not?
591
00:40:16,681 --> 00:40:19,207
Unless they feel that
I am being cheated.
592
00:40:19,284 --> 00:40:20,946
[Edward] But you would not be.
593
00:40:21,052 --> 00:40:25,752
Because if Eardwulf takes the title,
the land he is owed becomes vacant.
594
00:40:26,791 --> 00:40:31,855
And those could be handed to you in
exchange for your generous support.
595
00:40:39,404 --> 00:40:40,702
To the peacemaker.
596
00:40:43,541 --> 00:40:44,565
Peacemaker.
597
00:40:46,778 --> 00:40:48,906
To the peacemaker.
598
00:40:57,388 --> 00:41:00,222
[footsteps approaching]
599
00:41:03,962 --> 00:41:07,421
Lord, I come with
news that will revive you.
600
00:41:11,836 --> 00:41:12,895
[sighs]
601
00:41:13,905 --> 00:41:16,101
Has a successor been chosen?
602
00:41:17,008 --> 00:41:20,501
The King wishes to
betroth me to your daughter.
603
00:41:24,082 --> 00:41:25,175
No.
604
00:41:26,918 --> 00:41:28,443
I will not agree to it.
605
00:41:29,520 --> 00:41:31,955
But her hand with mine
will unite the two kingdoms
606
00:41:32,023 --> 00:41:34,424
and I will be the peacemaker
who saves Mercia.
607
00:41:36,694 --> 00:41:39,493
I promised my wife I
would not act without her.
608
00:41:41,799 --> 00:41:46,100
Without a plan, King Edward will take
your throne and Mercia will be subsumed.
609
00:41:47,672 --> 00:41:50,665
Please, Lord, just trust that I
have Mercia's best interests at heart.
610
00:41:51,709 --> 00:41:55,168
I'm begging you. Have I
not always served you well?
611
00:41:58,483 --> 00:42:01,476
[breathes heavily]
612
00:42:01,552 --> 00:42:02,815
No.
613
00:42:04,889 --> 00:42:06,016
No, you do not.
614
00:42:08,893 --> 00:42:13,456
I cannot place it, but my
stomach tells me that you lie.
615
00:42:16,901 --> 00:42:17,994
Lord...
616
00:42:19,470 --> 00:42:21,530
I have never lied to you.
617
00:42:24,642 --> 00:42:27,009
[grunts]
618
00:42:28,713 --> 00:42:31,649
[gasps]
619
00:42:32,817 --> 00:42:34,718
You have a stench about you.
620
00:42:35,319 --> 00:42:37,413
[breathes heavily]
621
00:42:37,522 --> 00:42:39,684
You are not worthy
of my daughter.
622
00:42:41,926 --> 00:42:45,226
[strained] You will
never rule Mercia.
623
00:42:45,329 --> 00:42:47,560
[breathes heavily]
624
00:42:48,599 --> 00:42:49,897
[grunts]
625
00:42:52,603 --> 00:42:53,730
Get out.
626
00:42:54,505 --> 00:42:55,529
Leave me.
627
00:43:05,383 --> 00:43:08,683
[hoarse and softly]
Guards, help!
628
00:43:08,753 --> 00:43:10,244
[gasping]
629
00:43:10,354 --> 00:43:11,378
[softly] Help...
630
00:43:13,424 --> 00:43:14,448
Hel...
631
00:43:18,729 --> 00:43:20,254
[yelps and groans]
632
00:43:25,136 --> 00:43:26,434
[grunts and groans]
633
00:43:41,619 --> 00:43:42,985
[neck snaps]
634
00:43:44,122 --> 00:43:49,584
[Eardwulf pants]
635
00:43:58,736 --> 00:44:02,002
You did not hear it from me. I
merely left the feast to take a piss.
636
00:44:02,106 --> 00:44:03,631
And if I am
asked, I will deny it.
637
00:44:03,741 --> 00:44:06,108
Of course, Pyrlig, I will
not mention your name,
638
00:44:06,177 --> 00:44:09,511
but enough talking in corners,
I'll simply confront him with it...
639
00:44:10,648 --> 00:44:15,279
Edward, tell me there is a mistake,
that you have not broken our agreement
640
00:44:15,353 --> 00:44:17,164
and betrothed my daughter
without my knowledge.
641
00:44:17,188 --> 00:44:19,453
We are simply making plans
should the worst happen.
642
00:44:19,524 --> 00:44:22,688
You agreed Aelfwynn should
not be used as a bargaining piece.
643
00:44:22,793 --> 00:44:24,785
That was before King
Edward struck a bargain.
644
00:44:25,496 --> 00:44:28,466
Ludeca, you cannot be joined
to Aelfwynn. She's a child.
645
00:44:29,367 --> 00:44:34,101
I'm not the suitor. I'm merely
someone trying to prevent chaos.
646
00:44:35,873 --> 00:44:38,536
So, who have you
betrothed my daughter to?
647
00:45:16,480 --> 00:45:18,560
[Aethelflaed] Edward, you
swore you'd not betroth her
648
00:45:18,649 --> 00:45:19,810
to a man I despised.
649
00:45:19,884 --> 00:45:22,012
He is a great warrior.
He is a leader of men.
650
00:45:22,086 --> 00:45:24,817
Aethelred still rules here,
and he will not allow this.
651
00:45:31,028 --> 00:45:32,496
I cannot wake him.
652
00:45:42,940 --> 00:45:45,569
I had looked to this
moment for many years.
653
00:45:48,713 --> 00:45:52,275
And now it is here, why
do I feel as if I want to cry?
654
00:45:53,117 --> 00:45:56,747
I think he regretted the
pain he caused you, Lady.
655
00:45:58,289 --> 00:46:00,918
Lord have mercy on
his soul and on us all.
656
00:46:03,928 --> 00:46:05,021
Prepare the body
657
00:46:05,096 --> 00:46:08,760
and inform your brother that his
betrothal will take place imminently.
658
00:46:09,900 --> 00:46:12,096
You are to be sister to
the new Lord of Mercia.
659
00:46:15,306 --> 00:46:17,451
- [Aethelflaed] Edward, I will fight this!
- You will not.
660
00:46:17,475 --> 00:46:19,910
You agreed that Aelfwynn's
betrothal was best for Mercia...
661
00:46:19,977 --> 00:46:23,209
I will not have my child
condemned to a life of misery.
662
00:46:26,384 --> 00:46:29,877
- Please, Ludeca, do not accept this plan.
- The plan offers stability.
663
00:46:29,954 --> 00:46:32,219
I believe it to be
the best solution.
664
00:46:33,124 --> 00:46:36,060
Eardwulf is not the man
to bring peace. Please.
665
00:46:36,127 --> 00:46:38,722
Lady, begging is unbecoming.
666
00:46:39,430 --> 00:46:42,491
After everything I
have done for Mercia...
667
00:46:42,600 --> 00:46:44,796
to have risked my
life for this reward,
668
00:46:44,902 --> 00:46:47,235
my child thrown to a
man who will mistreat her?
669
00:46:47,305 --> 00:46:50,764
Perhaps it will teach her more
deference than her mother has.
670
00:46:58,416 --> 00:47:01,648
Ride to Saltwic. Fetch
the Lady Aelfwynn.
671
00:47:02,586 --> 00:47:05,647
King Edward would like you
to ensure no force is used.
672
00:47:09,527 --> 00:47:10,756
[horse snorts]
673
00:47:10,828 --> 00:47:13,161
[hooves beating]
674
00:47:23,341 --> 00:47:24,673
He is gone.
675
00:47:24,775 --> 00:47:25,834
Aethelred is dead.
676
00:47:27,345 --> 00:47:28,506
Then you are free.
677
00:47:29,347 --> 00:47:30,713
He can torment you no longer.
678
00:47:32,650 --> 00:47:33,879
I wish that were true.
679
00:47:34,885 --> 00:47:38,049
But they seem to be set on
destroying me and all that matters.
680
00:47:42,727 --> 00:47:46,323
I thought Aethelred's death would
be a chance for me to live in peace...
681
00:47:47,298 --> 00:47:48,823
after all this time.
682
00:47:50,501 --> 00:47:52,197
But they cast me aside...
683
00:47:53,037 --> 00:47:55,302
treat my child
as a bag of silver.
684
00:47:56,407 --> 00:47:58,899
I will bargain a way out
of this... somehow I will.
685
00:47:59,009 --> 00:48:02,673
We do not need negotiation.
We must alert our allies,
686
00:48:02,747 --> 00:48:04,807
rally them against
Eardwulf, if necessary.
687
00:48:04,882 --> 00:48:08,046
It would set the Mercian Fyrd against
the Wessex army. It would be a civil war.
688
00:48:09,353 --> 00:48:13,222
A group of riders have just been
sent by Lord Aethelhelm to Saltwic.
689
00:48:13,324 --> 00:48:14,553
They are to take Aelfwynn.
690
00:48:16,160 --> 00:48:17,594
Edward is not himself.
691
00:48:18,829 --> 00:48:20,388
I will speak with him again.
692
00:48:21,699 --> 00:48:24,931
Go to Ceaster. Take her
somewhere you can protect her.
693
00:48:29,407 --> 00:48:33,868
Lord, I've heard the terrible news. I
will inform the people of the tragedy.
694
00:48:34,879 --> 00:48:37,041
Our traditions will
unite us in grief.
695
00:48:37,114 --> 00:48:39,549
May it bring a time
of healing for Mercia.
696
00:48:42,586 --> 00:48:44,953
I fear my sister
will not mourn him.
697
00:48:45,723 --> 00:48:48,591
With respect, Lord King, your
sister should follow the custom.
698
00:48:48,692 --> 00:48:51,457
She loves Mercia, but
she never loved its leader.
699
00:48:55,466 --> 00:48:58,527
Have Aethelflaed confined
until all this is settled.
700
00:48:58,602 --> 00:49:02,266
If only to save her offending
the Ealdormen by her lack of grief.
701
00:49:12,983 --> 00:49:16,249
- I do not wish to be confined.
- It's a chance to mourn.
702
00:49:17,788 --> 00:49:20,553
May I suggest you make
this simple and comply?
703
00:49:37,007 --> 00:49:38,100
[door slams]
704
00:49:50,187 --> 00:49:51,280
Lady Aelswith...
705
00:49:53,324 --> 00:49:55,987
Good, a man I trust.
706
00:49:57,428 --> 00:49:59,829
Follow my next instructions...
707
00:49:59,930 --> 00:50:02,263
and I am sure you
will be well rewarded.
708
00:50:04,435 --> 00:50:07,928
[birds chirping]
709
00:50:30,227 --> 00:50:31,354
[chuckles]
710
00:50:39,069 --> 00:50:40,560
[chomps and chuckles]
711
00:50:40,671 --> 00:50:42,196
- [chicks chirp]
- Dip-dip.
712
00:50:43,340 --> 00:50:46,868
[Stiorra] Was Bebbanburg as
impressive as we were told as children?
713
00:50:46,977 --> 00:50:48,001
It was more so...
714
00:50:48,746 --> 00:50:50,009
and harder to attack.
715
00:50:50,848 --> 00:50:53,977
Do you think we'll ever
return to it, or is it lost forever?
716
00:50:54,051 --> 00:50:56,543
I don't think I will see
it again in my lifetime.
717
00:50:58,355 --> 00:51:00,381
Perhaps our
children will reclaim it.
718
00:51:01,425 --> 00:51:02,916
I do not want children.
719
00:51:04,528 --> 00:51:05,928
I'm tired of their company.
720
00:51:06,030 --> 00:51:07,760
[horses neighing]
721
00:51:13,904 --> 00:51:16,203
Aelfwynn, come in... now!
722
00:51:18,275 --> 00:51:19,368
Aethelstan...
723
00:51:22,346 --> 00:51:23,746
Men are riding this way.
724
00:51:23,847 --> 00:51:26,715
- Which men?
- I don't know, but they're coming.
725
00:51:28,419 --> 00:51:29,443
Wait!
726
00:51:30,955 --> 00:51:32,014
We have a plan.
727
00:51:37,061 --> 00:51:39,860
Oh? Can I help
you? Are you lost?
728
00:51:39,930 --> 00:51:42,399
We're taking Lady
Aelfwynn to Aegelesburg.
729
00:51:42,466 --> 00:51:44,901
She's already been
taken to Winchester.
730
00:51:46,604 --> 00:51:47,697
Who by?
731
00:51:47,771 --> 00:51:50,570
Erm, I think he
called himself Uhtred.
732
00:51:51,976 --> 00:51:53,069
Let us in!
733
00:51:55,279 --> 00:51:57,145
You two, search the grounds.
734
00:51:59,383 --> 00:52:00,578
The rest of you with me.
735
00:52:13,631 --> 00:52:15,224
Nothing here.
736
00:52:37,621 --> 00:52:38,645
Off!
737
00:52:46,030 --> 00:52:47,089
I told you...
738
00:52:47,698 --> 00:52:48,961
she's not here.
739
00:52:50,634 --> 00:52:51,693
Let's go!
740
00:52:53,003 --> 00:52:54,301
[sighs]
741
00:53:09,953 --> 00:53:11,182
Stiorra!
742
00:53:11,555 --> 00:53:12,716
Stiorra?
743
00:53:13,691 --> 00:53:16,183
Stiorra! It is your father!
744
00:53:18,662 --> 00:53:21,154
- Did they hurt you?
- No, it worked.
745
00:53:21,231 --> 00:53:22,722
- I sent them away.
- Good.
746
00:53:23,667 --> 00:53:25,499
Sihtric!
747
00:53:25,569 --> 00:53:26,696
I told you.
748
00:53:26,804 --> 00:53:29,205
- We prepared ourselves for an invasion.
- [chuckles] Lord!
749
00:53:30,074 --> 00:53:31,235
Is it over?
750
00:53:31,341 --> 00:53:33,353
- Hey, little trickster you got here.
- [Stiorra laughs]
751
00:53:33,377 --> 00:53:34,538
Where's Aelfwynn?
752
00:53:42,352 --> 00:53:43,376
[whistles]
753
00:53:53,163 --> 00:53:55,826
Death came for Mother faster
than she could ever know.
754
00:53:55,899 --> 00:53:59,063
I've always felt it would come
for me, at speed, from nowhere.
755
00:53:59,937 --> 00:54:03,203
When I saw the horses, Father, I
was prepared, but I wasn't afraid.
756
00:54:03,707 --> 00:54:08,338
Besides, I had faith you'd
come for me. And I was right.
757
00:54:08,412 --> 00:54:11,940
[footsteps approaching]
758
00:54:16,019 --> 00:54:18,887
Bread, water and weapons,
the rest we'll find on the road.
759
00:54:18,956 --> 00:54:21,187
Stiorra, get the
children on the cart!
760
00:54:21,258 --> 00:54:22,435
We head north towards Ceaster.
761
00:54:22,459 --> 00:54:23,757
Do you think we have enough?
762
00:54:23,861 --> 00:54:25,921
With children and
a band of five?
763
00:54:26,029 --> 00:54:29,363
It's only until Aethelflaed secures
agreement from her brother.
764
00:54:30,300 --> 00:54:32,098
All will be made right.
765
00:54:41,078 --> 00:54:42,102
[door opens]
766
00:54:44,081 --> 00:54:47,415
Come. I have alerted the man who
protects you. He's outside the window.
767
00:54:47,484 --> 00:54:50,454
If you think I will fall into
a trap, you are mistaken.
768
00:54:50,554 --> 00:54:53,991
- Please, Lady, I am trying to help you.
- Why would a mistress help a wife?
769
00:54:54,091 --> 00:54:57,619
Because Mercia has wronged us
both and our brothers have turned on us.
770
00:54:57,728 --> 00:54:58,928
Lady, we are not so different.
771
00:54:59,797 --> 00:55:01,595
I have never humped
a man for influence.
772
00:55:01,665 --> 00:55:04,225
Just for your country
and political alliance.
773
00:55:04,301 --> 00:55:07,965
I never humped Aethelred willingly
and, believe me, I am paying for it. Go.
774
00:55:08,071 --> 00:55:12,338
I have nothing and no one. You
have silver and men that will help you.
775
00:55:13,944 --> 00:55:14,968
[grunts]
776
00:55:15,746 --> 00:55:16,839
Use them.
777
00:55:18,749 --> 00:55:19,842
Lady.
778
00:55:20,584 --> 00:55:24,146
- Will Eardwulf not kill you for this?
- He will try but he will not succeed.
779
00:55:24,254 --> 00:55:25,517
Go, Lady.
780
00:55:26,356 --> 00:55:29,622
My brother cannot be controlled
and will bring nothing but disaster.
781
00:55:31,662 --> 00:55:33,790
Find Uhtred on
the road to Ceaster.
782
00:55:34,865 --> 00:55:37,664
Tell him to meet me at the
ruins of Saint Milburg's Priory.
783
00:55:37,768 --> 00:55:40,431
Do this and I will ensure
you never go penniless.
784
00:55:56,787 --> 00:55:57,948
[grunts]
785
00:55:58,555 --> 00:56:01,320
Aldhelm, do I really abandon
Mercia after everything?
786
00:56:01,391 --> 00:56:04,156
Lady, Mercia has abandoned you.
787
00:56:04,228 --> 00:56:05,958
- [Aethelflaed sighs]
- Go.
787
00:56:06,305 --> 00:57:06,833
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