1
00:00:11,000 --> 00:00:13,440
[Uhtred] I am Uhtred, son of Uhtred.
2
00:00:13,520 --> 00:00:15,560
A great battle has been won,
3
00:00:15,640 --> 00:00:18,360
but the Saxons
do not find themselves at peace.
4
00:00:18,440 --> 00:00:21,520
You’ve chosen Mercia
over the Kingdom of Alfred.
5
00:00:21,600 --> 00:00:25,120
In Winchester, Lady Aelswith
has also worked to her own plan.
6
00:00:25,200 --> 00:00:28,440
You will take a message to the Welsh king.
7
00:00:28,520 --> 00:00:32,160
And a rivalry simmers
with the new queen Aelflaed.
8
00:00:32,240 --> 00:00:35,600
Lady Aelswith was seen visiting
Edward’s bastard at the monastery.
9
00:00:35,680 --> 00:00:38,720
What business has she showing kindness
to a whore and her offspring?
10
00:00:39,000 --> 00:00:40,720
Yet my part is done.
11
00:00:40,800 --> 00:00:42,920
I turned away from Saxon conflict
12
00:00:43,000 --> 00:00:45,760
and looked to uniting
with my daughter Stiorra.
13
00:00:45,840 --> 00:00:48,200
I want to make a home
for my children to return to.
14
00:00:48,480 --> 00:00:50,080
Stiorra thrives.
15
00:00:50,160 --> 00:00:54,880
She's now grown and is at Saltwic
with Aelfwynn, Aethelflaed’s daughter,
16
00:00:54,960 --> 00:00:57,760
and another child, a mysterious boy.
17
00:00:57,840 --> 00:01:00,160
Who are your family?
18
00:01:00,840 --> 00:01:02,840
I’ve been told not to answer that.
19
00:01:02,920 --> 00:01:05,800
And though I hope
the gods will allow peace,
20
00:01:05,880 --> 00:01:09,080
I fear ambitions will lead us back to war.
21
00:01:09,160 --> 00:01:12,800
When we return to Aegelesburg,
I will publicly castrate you!
22
00:01:12,880 --> 00:01:16,800
But the heat of battle has brought
Eardwulf unexpected reward.
23
00:01:18,640 --> 00:01:20,440
Destiny is all!
24
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25
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[guard] Open the gate!
26
00:02:04,400 --> 00:02:05,720
[gate opens]
27
00:02:05,800 --> 00:02:07,160
[horse neighs]
28
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[Eardwulf] Halt!
29
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[murmuring]
30
00:02:37,200 --> 00:02:38,200
Make way!
31
00:02:40,040 --> 00:02:41,040
[man] Gently.
32
00:02:43,680 --> 00:02:45,320
Lift him. Careful.
33
00:02:54,160 --> 00:02:56,520
Have no fear. He will recover.
34
00:03:19,640 --> 00:03:21,640
[whispers] Stop praying for him to die.
35
00:03:22,440 --> 00:03:25,600
- We will be blamed for this.
- Not if we blame him first.
36
00:03:38,200 --> 00:03:39,200
[door opens]
37
00:03:40,840 --> 00:03:41,840
[horse snorts]
38
00:03:43,440 --> 00:03:44,760
[horse neighs]
39
00:03:45,760 --> 00:03:47,240
[metal banging]
40
00:03:48,720 --> 00:03:49,720
Stiorra!
41
00:03:50,200 --> 00:03:52,760
- Open the doors!
- Perhaps she is sleeping.
42
00:03:53,480 --> 00:03:55,680
Stiorra, wake up. It is your father.
43
00:03:55,760 --> 00:03:57,800
[Stiorra] Stay back and name yourselves.
44
00:03:58,240 --> 00:04:02,480
My father calls himself Uhtred
of Bebbanburg. Who are you?
45
00:04:02,560 --> 00:04:05,360
Stiorra, it is us. It really is.
46
00:04:11,960 --> 00:04:13,840
Father has defeated the Danes.
47
00:04:18,880 --> 00:04:20,640
I’ve come to take you home.
48
00:04:21,640 --> 00:04:24,440
- You’re lucky I didn’t stab you.
- [Uhtred chuckles]
49
00:04:26,680 --> 00:04:27,680
[both laugh]
50
00:04:32,320 --> 00:04:35,480
The battle was never close.
We would not have left you in danger.
51
00:04:35,560 --> 00:04:37,480
There have been rumors
of retreating fighters.
52
00:04:37,560 --> 00:04:39,240
We made a plan if we were attacked.
53
00:04:39,840 --> 00:04:42,480
- Where’s my daughter?
- Aelfwynn!
54
00:04:44,040 --> 00:04:47,320
- [Stiorra] Aelfwynn, your mother is here!
- [bird chirping]
55
00:04:51,760 --> 00:04:52,800
Mother!
56
00:04:54,320 --> 00:04:55,320
I’ve missed you!
57
00:04:56,000 --> 00:04:57,360
Oh, I’ve missed you too!
58
00:04:58,720 --> 00:05:00,840
Aethelstan! You can come out.
59
00:05:01,440 --> 00:05:03,240
Cnut has been sent to hell!
60
00:05:07,240 --> 00:05:08,240
Who’s the boy?
61
00:05:08,920 --> 00:05:10,080
I am no one.
62
00:05:11,880 --> 00:05:13,640
I will explain later.
63
00:05:16,160 --> 00:05:19,040
Father, when do we ride home to Coccham?
Tonight?
64
00:05:19,120 --> 00:05:21,560
No, but soon, once the peace is secure.
65
00:05:21,640 --> 00:05:25,040
Please! I’m too old to be stuck here
with children!
66
00:05:25,120 --> 00:05:26,120
Stiorra!
67
00:05:26,840 --> 00:05:28,080
[Stiorra sighs]
68
00:05:31,240 --> 00:05:32,280
[door opens]
69
00:05:34,800 --> 00:05:37,080
[Finan] Lord Aldhelm approaches
from the road.
70
00:05:50,520 --> 00:05:51,360
[Aldhelm sighs]
71
00:05:51,440 --> 00:05:53,800
Lady, Aethelred is injured.
72
00:05:54,400 --> 00:05:55,720
Some are saying fatally.
73
00:05:57,560 --> 00:05:59,240
There’s a rumor he will not last the week.
74
00:05:59,280 --> 00:06:00,760
- We must go to him.
- Tomorrow.
75
00:06:00,840 --> 00:06:04,056
- These roads are too dangerous at night...
- We must speak to him and the Ealdormen.
76
00:06:04,080 --> 00:06:05,720
No plan has been made for the succession.
77
00:06:05,800 --> 00:06:08,240
Lady, the mood amongst the Ealdormen
is ugly.
78
00:06:08,720 --> 00:06:11,320
Those who survived the massacre
blame Aethelred for deserting them
79
00:06:11,400 --> 00:06:13,800
and denounce your brother
for not coming to their aid.
80
00:06:13,880 --> 00:06:15,440
Does this anger extend to Aethelflaed?
81
00:06:17,720 --> 00:06:18,720
I don’t know.
82
00:06:21,640 --> 00:06:23,560
- We ride at first light.
- [Aldhelm] Lady.
83
00:06:23,640 --> 00:06:26,280
[Uhtred] Stiorra, take the children
and secure yourselves.
84
00:06:26,360 --> 00:06:27,960
Open the door to no one but us.
85
00:06:28,040 --> 00:06:30,240
Why? You said the Danes were defeated?
86
00:06:30,320 --> 00:06:32,720
- It is not just the Danes we have to fear.
- What?
87
00:06:32,800 --> 00:06:34,680
How much longer will I live
like a prisoner?
88
00:06:34,760 --> 00:06:36,840
She is young to take on such a burden.
89
00:06:36,920 --> 00:06:39,400
You were betrothed by her age
and suffered worse.
90
00:06:39,480 --> 00:06:42,360
They will remain secure
until the new threats have passed.
91
00:06:44,600 --> 00:06:47,080
We should not leave the children
unprotected any longer.
92
00:06:47,160 --> 00:06:48,520
My men will stay here.
93
00:06:48,600 --> 00:06:51,120
If Aethelred dies, times will be unstable.
94
00:06:52,000 --> 00:06:54,320
An empty throne provokes more trouble
than a weak king.
95
00:06:54,400 --> 00:06:57,720
Our traditions are strong. The Ealdormen
will choose a wise successor.
96
00:06:57,800 --> 00:07:00,200
And what if that successor
seeks to have you removed?
97
00:07:00,280 --> 00:07:02,400
Widows are rarely welcome
in times of change.
98
00:07:02,480 --> 00:07:04,560
- Look at your mother.
- Mercia is my home.
99
00:07:04,640 --> 00:07:08,560
Yet you have no formal protection here,
no son or father to speak for you.
100
00:07:08,640 --> 00:07:10,400
At best, they will send you to a nunnery
101
00:07:10,480 --> 00:07:12,800
and marry your daughter
to the highest bidder.
102
00:07:12,880 --> 00:07:15,400
No! Aelfwynn will not suffer
because of this.
103
00:07:15,480 --> 00:07:16,560
So leave.
104
00:07:17,800 --> 00:07:20,360
And come to Coccham,
where I can protect you both.
105
00:07:20,440 --> 00:07:21,440
[Aethelflaed sighs]
106
00:07:22,440 --> 00:07:25,120
Unless you want to live a life
of prayer and chastity.
107
00:07:25,200 --> 00:07:27,400
The Ealdormen will not turn on us.
108
00:07:27,480 --> 00:07:30,480
Battle does not always bring reward,
Aethelflaed.
109
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This much I have learned.
110
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[breathes heavily]
111
00:07:52,200 --> 00:07:54,480
[Ealdormen whispering indistinctly]
112
00:07:59,240 --> 00:08:00,840
Why do the Ealdormen circle?
113
00:08:02,560 --> 00:08:04,160
How long have I been sleeping?
114
00:08:04,960 --> 00:08:06,720
Since the day of the battle, Lord.
115
00:08:06,800 --> 00:08:09,360
- You fell and injured your head.
- Did we win?
116
00:08:10,680 --> 00:08:12,080
I remember very little.
117
00:08:14,280 --> 00:08:18,760
We did. We returned from East Anglia
and sent the Danes running to the sea.
118
00:08:20,560 --> 00:08:22,200
[gasps and breathes heavily]
119
00:08:25,760 --> 00:08:28,600
Who in the name of God
advised that we go to East Anglia?
120
00:08:31,280 --> 00:08:32,280
Um...
121
00:08:33,040 --> 00:08:34,040
You did.
122
00:08:34,920 --> 00:08:37,720
Then news came of the invasion
and we returned to protect our people.
123
00:08:37,799 --> 00:08:40,159
After hundreds
had already been slaughtered.
124
00:08:42,760 --> 00:08:44,799
I remember arriving at the battle...
125
00:08:46,480 --> 00:08:48,240
but I...
126
00:08:53,880 --> 00:08:56,920
- Am I to recover?
- [Eardwulf] I’m assured that you will.
127
00:09:02,320 --> 00:09:04,440
[gasps and breathes heavily]
128
00:09:06,360 --> 00:09:09,000
Why do you lie to him
when he is certain to die?
129
00:09:09,280 --> 00:09:11,280
I ease him in his time of need.
130
00:09:12,200 --> 00:09:14,400
More like in his time of judgment.
131
00:09:14,480 --> 00:09:17,000
What is this but punishment
for greed and ambition?
132
00:09:17,080 --> 00:09:20,000
- Burgred.
- He left us to face the Danes alone.
133
00:09:20,800 --> 00:09:22,960
Took all the defenses we had and for what?
134
00:09:23,040 --> 00:09:25,680
A few miles of marshland
barely able to yield a crop?
135
00:09:25,760 --> 00:09:26,600
Burgred.
136
00:09:26,680 --> 00:09:29,640
I will speak
for I have nothing else to lose!
137
00:09:30,200 --> 00:09:32,400
My eldest, pulled from my hands, be...
138
00:09:34,440 --> 00:09:35,600
beheaded.
139
00:09:37,080 --> 00:09:39,080
My youngest and my wife beaten.
140
00:09:39,160 --> 00:09:44,320
Men of honor paraded and humiliated,
and no one came to help us!
141
00:09:44,400 --> 00:09:46,000
And yet we survived.
142
00:09:46,080 --> 00:09:48,800
I will not honor him.
143
00:09:50,600 --> 00:09:53,840
And nor should you, Burgred,
not after all that you’ve suffered.
144
00:09:55,440 --> 00:09:59,280
Suffice to say that I did all I could
to persuade him to return sooner...
145
00:10:00,480 --> 00:10:01,520
but I failed.
146
00:10:02,080 --> 00:10:06,360
Trust me, the Mercian Guard
feel your loss deeply.
147
00:10:18,120 --> 00:10:20,680
Aldhelm, have you spoken
with the Ealdormen?
148
00:10:20,760 --> 00:10:22,520
There’s to be a Witan with the survivors.
149
00:10:22,600 --> 00:10:24,160
[Uhtred] Perhaps I will address them.
150
00:10:24,480 --> 00:10:27,040
They can thank me
for bringing Cnut to the field.
151
00:10:27,120 --> 00:10:30,200
- Perhaps you should remain here.
- [Uhtred] You do not want me with you?
152
00:10:30,280 --> 00:10:33,000
[Ludeca speaks angrily and indistinctly]
153
00:10:33,080 --> 00:10:37,160
Times are feverish.
Now is a moment for calm negotiation.
154
00:10:37,240 --> 00:10:39,360
The men who play politics always say that.
155
00:10:40,280 --> 00:10:42,960
And then they come running for my help.
[sighs]
156
00:10:47,240 --> 00:10:51,280
I demand you do not leave the room.
We are in love, are we not?
157
00:10:56,800 --> 00:10:59,960
Did he mention my mistake?
Does he blame me for our late return?
158
00:11:00,040 --> 00:11:03,200
- [whispers] He has not spoken of you.
- Good. Perhaps he’s forgotten.
159
00:11:03,280 --> 00:11:04,800
If he has, it will not be for long.
160
00:11:04,880 --> 00:11:08,120
- We should leave before his mind repairs.
- No, we will stay until he dies.
161
00:11:08,200 --> 00:11:10,560
There is an opportunity
to regain our influence.
162
00:11:10,640 --> 00:11:12,080
- Brother, no...
- No, listen.
163
00:11:12,160 --> 00:11:15,320
The Mercian Guard are loyal to me,
and the Ealdormen are against him.
164
00:11:15,400 --> 00:11:17,600
Groups are forming as the ravens circle.
165
00:11:18,760 --> 00:11:22,200
- I could be a peacemaker between them.
- Brother, this is madness.
166
00:11:22,280 --> 00:11:24,720
We’ve played with fire
and found ourselves burnt.
167
00:11:25,320 --> 00:11:26,760
Lady Aethelflaed.
168
00:11:27,560 --> 00:11:29,920
- Are you the woman who is healing him?
- No.
169
00:11:30,000 --> 00:11:31,560
Merely sitting by his side.
170
00:11:32,080 --> 00:11:33,680
My name is Eadith.
171
00:11:35,360 --> 00:11:36,640
I’ve heard your name.
172
00:11:38,320 --> 00:11:41,880
You must be her brother whose late entry
into battle helped us prevail.
173
00:11:42,360 --> 00:11:45,080
- Our actions were decisive, Lady.
- If a little delayed.
174
00:11:45,840 --> 00:11:47,656
- I'd like to speak to my husband alone.
- Lady.
175
00:11:47,680 --> 00:11:49,080
I command the Mercian Guard.
176
00:11:49,160 --> 00:11:51,536
- I only take orders from Lord Aethelred.
- [Ealdorman 1] Lady.
177
00:11:51,560 --> 00:11:53,040
[Ealdorman 2] Lady Aethelflaed.
178
00:11:54,760 --> 00:11:58,000
Are you questioning whether I know
the mind of my own husband?
179
00:11:59,200 --> 00:12:02,600
No, of course not. We will withdraw.
180
00:12:04,800 --> 00:12:08,240
[footsteps receding]
181
00:12:09,640 --> 00:12:10,960
[softly] Aethelflaed.
182
00:12:12,040 --> 00:12:13,760
I must be dying if you’re here.
183
00:12:14,240 --> 00:12:16,600
I am certain
God will restore you to health.
184
00:12:18,080 --> 00:12:19,840
I fear that may not be true.
185
00:12:21,040 --> 00:12:24,240
Priests have prayed over me
as though preparing the final rites.
186
00:12:25,960 --> 00:12:26,960
[sighs]
187
00:12:27,760 --> 00:12:29,560
They will not meet my eye.
188
00:12:30,440 --> 00:12:31,800
And nor will you.
189
00:12:34,160 --> 00:12:35,200
Why have you come?
190
00:12:36,240 --> 00:12:37,520
To revel in my suffering?
191
00:12:40,560 --> 00:12:43,320
I am concerned about the fate
of our daughter,
192
00:12:43,400 --> 00:12:45,400
should you be taken from us.
193
00:12:47,080 --> 00:12:51,200
Without a father to protect her, I wish
to ensure she is not further abused.
194
00:12:52,280 --> 00:12:55,920
- You have treated her most unkindly.
- That’s because she is not my daughter.
195
00:12:56,640 --> 00:12:58,840
I may struggle to remember,
but that I know.
196
00:12:58,920 --> 00:13:02,480
So, you must also know
the people regard her as your daughter.
197
00:13:02,560 --> 00:13:05,760
- She is rather fair for a Mercian...
- And that consequently,
198
00:13:06,320 --> 00:13:09,600
they will seek her hand
to support their claim to your title.
199
00:13:10,720 --> 00:13:12,080
So, what is it that you want?
200
00:13:12,160 --> 00:13:16,040
At the very least, you agree
not to betroth her to some heartless fool.
201
00:13:17,360 --> 00:13:18,600
As you were?
202
00:13:21,680 --> 00:13:24,800
Our union brought us misery,
and the people knew it.
203
00:13:25,880 --> 00:13:28,760
It created a crack in Mercia
that did not serve it well.
204
00:13:30,000 --> 00:13:33,000
The Ealdormen of marriageable age
were all slaughtered...
205
00:13:33,880 --> 00:13:35,400
the best of them taken.
206
00:13:37,160 --> 00:13:40,320
There’s a danger dishonorable hands
will try to grasp her.
207
00:13:41,560 --> 00:13:44,200
- So?
- So, allow me to choose someone suitable
208
00:13:44,280 --> 00:13:46,880
and I promise you,
this kingdom will thrive.
209
00:13:52,120 --> 00:13:55,400
I agree. You should approve the match.
210
00:13:58,320 --> 00:14:01,480
If only you were as faithful to me
as you are to Mercia.
211
00:14:02,760 --> 00:14:06,040
If you had not treated me with
so much cruelty since our wedding night,
212
00:14:06,120 --> 00:14:08,960
perhaps things could have been
very different between us.
213
00:14:16,280 --> 00:14:19,560
If you fear death,
now is the moment to ask for forgiveness.
214
00:14:23,320 --> 00:14:25,080
Who ordained you confessor?
215
00:14:30,000 --> 00:14:32,360
Then let it be between you and your God.
216
00:14:33,560 --> 00:14:36,280
May he weigh you in the balance
for all you have done.
217
00:14:36,800 --> 00:14:38,960
[footsteps receding]
218
00:14:40,240 --> 00:14:41,240
Aethelflaed!
219
00:14:43,800 --> 00:14:46,360
I know
that I have not always treated you kindly.
220
00:14:47,080 --> 00:14:48,640
For that, I am sorry.
221
00:14:51,120 --> 00:14:53,920
I was younger and more foolish.
222
00:14:56,960 --> 00:15:01,200
And, as for you,
I hope that you can find some comfort.
223
00:15:05,600 --> 00:15:07,960
To live without being loved is a torture.
224
00:15:12,840 --> 00:15:15,840
Which is why you acted
with so much cruelty?
225
00:15:30,560 --> 00:15:33,920
[men shouting indistinctly]
226
00:15:40,080 --> 00:15:43,640
If I may say, Lord King,
I think this is unwise.
227
00:15:43,720 --> 00:15:48,560
Injured or not, Aethelred will be held
to account for abandoning Mercia.
228
00:15:48,640 --> 00:15:52,240
I say let them drown in a turmoil
of their own making.
229
00:15:52,320 --> 00:15:54,960
Turned out well for us last time,
leaving them to it.
230
00:15:55,440 --> 00:15:57,040
Until the enormous battle.
231
00:15:57,120 --> 00:15:59,560
Indeed, Father Pyrlig knows
how to win battles.
232
00:15:59,640 --> 00:16:00,640
[chuckles]
233
00:16:00,680 --> 00:16:01,760
We won the war.
234
00:16:02,360 --> 00:16:04,360
Now we must help bring about the peace.
235
00:16:05,200 --> 00:16:07,560
Mercia does not need any more instability.
236
00:16:08,040 --> 00:16:11,960
- And what about the people of Winchester?
- Indeed.
237
00:16:12,720 --> 00:16:16,160
Have my mother publicly rebuked
for raising King Hywel's army.
238
00:16:16,240 --> 00:16:18,960
She must learn her interference
brings a cost.
239
00:16:28,600 --> 00:16:30,120
- Cenric!
- Lord.
240
00:16:31,840 --> 00:16:34,560
Have our men directed here
to help rebuild the town.
241
00:16:34,640 --> 00:16:36,840
- Lord.
- The Mercians are proud people.
242
00:16:36,920 --> 00:16:38,880
I doubt they will want our help.
243
00:16:38,960 --> 00:16:41,480
We will not ignore their plight again.
244
00:16:46,400 --> 00:16:47,400
[Ealdormen argue]
245
00:16:47,480 --> 00:16:51,280
[Burgred] Our Lord will not recover!
We should not delay the decision!
246
00:16:51,360 --> 00:16:54,240
[Ludeca] We are too few
to pass a decision!
247
00:16:54,320 --> 00:16:58,480
We should wait until other Ealdormen
have arrived from all parts of Mercia!
248
00:16:58,560 --> 00:17:00,960
That is how it has been done
and shall continue!
249
00:17:01,040 --> 00:17:04,440
- But the matter is pressing, Ludeca.
- Yes!
250
00:17:04,520 --> 00:17:06,160
And the next successor is clear.
251
00:17:06,240 --> 00:17:07,720
[Ealdormen argue]
252
00:17:07,800 --> 00:17:10,400
My younger son's claim is strong
through his uncle...
253
00:17:10,760 --> 00:17:15,319
and he is untainted by a connection
to disloyal Wessex.
254
00:17:15,400 --> 00:17:17,960
Your son is too young, Burgred.
255
00:17:18,040 --> 00:17:19,200
Oh, come on!
256
00:17:19,280 --> 00:17:23,280
If the worst should befall our Kingdom,
we will need a man of wisdom!
257
00:17:23,359 --> 00:17:24,359
Oh, wisdom!
258
00:17:24,680 --> 00:17:26,839
And who would you be thinking of, Ludeca?
259
00:17:27,680 --> 00:17:30,480
[Ealdorman] He may yet be well enough
to announce his own successor.
260
00:17:30,560 --> 00:17:32,920
We should speak to them.
They talk in circles.
261
00:17:33,000 --> 00:17:36,240
- They will not offer me a chance to speak.
- They can refuse you?
262
00:17:36,320 --> 00:17:39,000
They say I should be
at Aethelred's bedside.
263
00:17:41,120 --> 00:17:43,760
Tell me it is less disordered
than it looks.
264
00:17:43,840 --> 00:17:44,720
I cannot.
265
00:17:44,800 --> 00:17:48,920
There is division. There is anger.
They think Wessex has abandoned them.
266
00:17:49,880 --> 00:17:53,440
And there is talk
that they do not honor the union.
267
00:17:56,520 --> 00:17:58,240
As in Mercia break from Wessex?
268
00:17:58,320 --> 00:18:00,360
- [Aldhelm] Some are saying that, yes.
- [sighs]
269
00:18:00,440 --> 00:18:04,680
Then we must appease them. I understand
their frustrations with my husband,
270
00:18:04,760 --> 00:18:07,200
but to sever Saxon unity
would hurt us all.
271
00:18:08,720 --> 00:18:10,720
We must remain united.
272
00:18:11,560 --> 00:18:13,480
[healer chants prayer]
273
00:18:13,560 --> 00:18:16,680
[Aethelred pants]
274
00:18:25,120 --> 00:18:27,240
Lord Aethelred, I heard you were injured.
275
00:18:29,280 --> 00:18:30,280
Yes, I...
276
00:18:32,000 --> 00:18:33,760
Forgive me if I do not get up.
277
00:18:35,960 --> 00:18:37,560
They told me that...
278
00:18:47,560 --> 00:18:49,320
Has your father sent you?
279
00:18:52,160 --> 00:18:53,160
What...
280
00:19:00,840 --> 00:19:03,040
He will be in his shroud
before the week is out.
281
00:19:03,120 --> 00:19:07,360
You must act decisively to install
someone here before chaos breaks out.
282
00:19:07,440 --> 00:19:09,560
His successor is decided by the Ealdormen.
283
00:19:09,640 --> 00:19:11,800
And who decides what the Ealdormen decide?
284
00:19:11,880 --> 00:19:13,640
I cannot simply march into Mercia
285
00:19:13,720 --> 00:19:15,840
and tell them how to conduct
their affairs.
286
00:19:15,920 --> 00:19:18,000
I've not been as attentive to them
as I should have.
287
00:19:18,080 --> 00:19:21,840
Fortunately, you are already here.
So, no marching is required.
288
00:19:21,920 --> 00:19:24,080
Danish survivors have been spotted
heading east.
289
00:19:24,160 --> 00:19:26,160
Should we send a band to capture them?
290
00:19:27,120 --> 00:19:30,840
No, all forces must come here
to Aegelesburg.
291
00:19:36,480 --> 00:19:38,520
- Are those the Ealdormen?
- Yes.
292
00:19:38,600 --> 00:19:40,600
What do we know of them
and their intentions?
293
00:19:40,680 --> 00:19:43,680
Those two reckon they have
a chance to take the title.
294
00:19:43,760 --> 00:19:46,120
The gray-haired one,
Ludeca, wants the kingdom
295
00:19:46,200 --> 00:19:48,200
and hasn't the balls to fight for it.
296
00:19:48,280 --> 00:19:52,240
The other, Burgred, wants it for his son,
but no one likes him enough to say yes.
297
00:19:52,320 --> 00:19:56,560
Could this son be betrothed
to your niece Lady Aelfwynn?
298
00:19:56,640 --> 00:19:59,120
Bring a successor under your wing
with a family connection?
299
00:19:59,200 --> 00:20:00,840
It worked for your father.
300
00:20:00,920 --> 00:20:03,040
A child on the throne
will not bring security.
301
00:20:03,120 --> 00:20:05,960
Let us meet
with the older Ealdorman Ludeca.
302
00:20:06,040 --> 00:20:09,760
He is likely to be the most reasonable.
First, I must speak with my sister.
303
00:20:19,200 --> 00:20:20,200
Lord?
304
00:20:22,360 --> 00:20:24,560
It appears there might be new turbulence.
305
00:20:24,640 --> 00:20:27,800
Tell the Wessex Guards
to settle within the walls.
306
00:20:28,280 --> 00:20:29,480
- Of course.
- Oh.
307
00:20:29,960 --> 00:20:32,920
And that command
to punish the King's mother,
308
00:20:33,000 --> 00:20:35,760
that is an order
you yourself could undertake?
309
00:20:36,040 --> 00:20:38,040
Was punishment what the King commanded?
310
00:20:38,120 --> 00:20:41,960
It’s what he wants
but cannot order directly.
311
00:20:42,680 --> 00:20:47,360
He feels
the Lady Aelswith needs... containing.
312
00:20:54,880 --> 00:20:57,000
Brother, you have heard
of my husband's injury?
313
00:20:57,080 --> 00:21:00,880
Yes, I've seen him. Should he die,
what are the plans for the succession?
314
00:21:00,960 --> 00:21:03,240
It is not clear.
The Ealdormen are much diminished.
315
00:21:03,320 --> 00:21:05,240
There is talk of a break from Wessex.
316
00:21:06,240 --> 00:21:08,800
They wish to abandon the alliance
between Wessex and Mercia.
317
00:21:08,880 --> 00:21:11,161
- They feel you have abandoned them.
- That cannot happen.
318
00:21:11,600 --> 00:21:13,080
If Tettenhall has taught us anything,
319
00:21:13,120 --> 00:21:16,080
it is that the two kingdoms stand stronger
when they are together.
320
00:21:16,160 --> 00:21:17,840
- I know...
- I cannot preside over
321
00:21:17,920 --> 00:21:19,320
the breaking of our alliance
322
00:21:19,400 --> 00:21:22,400
and I will not allow the fracturing
of our father's dream!
323
00:21:25,760 --> 00:21:28,480
We will betroth the Lady Aelfwynn
to the successor
324
00:21:28,560 --> 00:21:30,160
and seal the bond between our lands.
325
00:21:30,240 --> 00:21:33,480
In return for the strength
she’ll bring to their claim in Mercia,
326
00:21:33,560 --> 00:21:35,240
we will ask they are loyal to Wessex.
327
00:21:35,320 --> 00:21:37,880
I agree with the idea,
but it is not that simple.
328
00:21:37,960 --> 00:21:40,280
The best of the young Ealdormen
have been slaughtered.
329
00:21:40,360 --> 00:21:41,400
There's no one suitable.
330
00:21:41,480 --> 00:21:43,280
[Edward] Then we will find
someone suitable.
331
00:21:43,360 --> 00:21:45,920
Lord King, the men who remain
are not well disposed to you.
332
00:21:46,000 --> 00:21:48,416
- There’s no obvious choice.
- Where is the Lady Aelfwynn now?
333
00:21:48,440 --> 00:21:49,880
Safe at Saltwic with my men.
334
00:21:49,960 --> 00:21:51,720
Bring her here
and we will settle the matter.
335
00:21:51,760 --> 00:21:55,120
No! We will settle the matter
and then we will bring her here.
336
00:21:55,200 --> 00:21:56,480
Aegelesburg is volatile.
337
00:21:56,560 --> 00:21:58,760
Surely it is best
if she is with her family.
338
00:21:58,840 --> 00:22:00,240
She's too young to be used as bait.
339
00:22:03,360 --> 00:22:07,080
Find me the right suitor
and we will make haste to arrange a match.
340
00:22:07,760 --> 00:22:11,040
I promise you, brother, this alliance
means as much to me as it does to you.
341
00:22:13,080 --> 00:22:14,800
Bring the Ealdormen to me.
342
00:22:15,280 --> 00:22:17,840
Have no fear, I will resolve this.
343
00:22:20,680 --> 00:22:22,640
Keep an eye on the Ealdormen yourself.
344
00:22:22,720 --> 00:22:25,280
I will find out
how long Edward intends to stay.
345
00:22:25,360 --> 00:22:28,920
My brother is finally trying to enact
my father's will. We should welcome this.
346
00:22:29,000 --> 00:22:31,400
I know, but his authority is under threat
347
00:22:31,480 --> 00:22:34,280
and men under threat
do not always act with wisdom.
348
00:22:34,360 --> 00:22:37,520
[footsteps receding]
349
00:22:42,240 --> 00:22:45,160
Show respect for the fallen of Tettenhall!
350
00:22:57,400 --> 00:22:59,960
[woman gasps and sobs]
351
00:23:00,040 --> 00:23:03,280
[sobs]
352
00:23:07,200 --> 00:23:09,560
Your sacrifice will not be forgotten.
353
00:23:14,120 --> 00:23:16,920
You must pay your respects, Aelfweard.
Come with me.
354
00:23:20,040 --> 00:23:23,080
He is too young to be displayed
before the people.
355
00:23:23,160 --> 00:23:24,920
If he's to send men to war,
356
00:23:25,000 --> 00:23:29,000
as the future king of Wessex,
he must know the consequences.
357
00:23:36,400 --> 00:23:38,160
I will not try and woo King Edward!
358
00:23:38,240 --> 00:23:41,720
I’m not asking you to hump him,
merely ingratiate yourself, as will I.
359
00:23:41,800 --> 00:23:43,800
Why would we try a plan
that has failed before?
360
00:23:43,880 --> 00:23:46,080
Has it failed?
We’re in the palace, are we not?
361
00:23:46,160 --> 00:23:47,920
By luck, nothing more.
362
00:23:48,000 --> 00:23:51,160
- You’re giving up too easily.
- And you are living a fantasy.
363
00:23:51,240 --> 00:23:54,240
Take this opportunity and escape.
364
00:23:54,320 --> 00:23:55,920
Go back to having nothing?
365
00:23:56,000 --> 00:23:59,200
And avoid the turmoil
that will unfold when Aethelred dies.
366
00:23:59,280 --> 00:24:03,480
I am mistress to a dead king.
You are the favorite of a dead king.
367
00:24:03,560 --> 00:24:05,480
Since when have such people thrived?
368
00:24:05,560 --> 00:24:07,600
Edward is not foolish like Aethelred.
369
00:24:07,680 --> 00:24:10,560
Please, brother,
see what is real and what is not.
370
00:24:12,200 --> 00:24:14,080
For a whore, you lack ambition.
371
00:24:16,160 --> 00:24:19,320
- What did you say?
- Every plan we’ve made, you’ve agreed to.
372
00:24:20,120 --> 00:24:24,000
You cannot choose to play and then run,
when it gets a little dangerous.
373
00:24:24,080 --> 00:24:26,720
[Uhtred] Aethelflaed. [breathes heavily]
374
00:24:26,800 --> 00:24:29,400
Edward has ordered all his troops
to Aegelesburg.
375
00:24:29,480 --> 00:24:31,040
He is just being cautious.
376
00:24:31,120 --> 00:24:32,720
Or he’s expecting a fight.
377
00:24:32,800 --> 00:24:35,960
There will be no fight,
because we will find a resolution.
378
00:24:36,520 --> 00:24:39,680
Trust him. He knows now not to put
one kingdom before the other.
379
00:24:39,760 --> 00:24:42,640
[Eadith] I am going to Frankia
before your insanity drowns us both!
380
00:24:42,720 --> 00:24:45,800
You will go nowhere without my permission!
381
00:24:46,480 --> 00:24:47,920
Is all well, Lady?
382
00:24:48,920 --> 00:24:49,920
Yes.
383
00:24:50,640 --> 00:24:53,800
He is my brother
and it is just a foolish disagreement.
384
00:24:55,080 --> 00:24:56,800
My husband is asking for you.
385
00:24:57,640 --> 00:24:58,800
Attend to him, please.
386
00:25:04,960 --> 00:25:07,040
What kind of a man treats his sister
this way?
387
00:25:09,520 --> 00:25:11,840
[footsteps receding]
388
00:25:13,000 --> 00:25:15,040
Aethelred has soured this place.
389
00:25:17,320 --> 00:25:18,400
Then leave.
390
00:25:19,800 --> 00:25:21,560
You do not have to do this.
391
00:25:22,560 --> 00:25:25,800
If we went with you, they would follow
and drag us back in shame.
392
00:25:25,880 --> 00:25:27,480
Then we go further than they can follow.
393
00:25:27,560 --> 00:25:30,120
North, to the edge of the Danelaw.
Ceaster.
394
00:25:30,600 --> 00:25:32,360
The road to Ceaster is too dangerous.
395
00:25:32,440 --> 00:25:34,800
But if we made it, it has Roman walls.
396
00:25:35,680 --> 00:25:37,160
It can be defended.
397
00:25:42,760 --> 00:25:45,120
I want to, Uhtred...
398
00:25:47,280 --> 00:25:49,480
to live in peace by your side...
399
00:25:50,960 --> 00:25:52,960
to raise my daughter in safety.
400
00:25:54,080 --> 00:25:56,640
Nothing would bring me greater happiness.
401
00:25:58,440 --> 00:26:00,440
But if we left, we could never return.
402
00:26:01,800 --> 00:26:04,760
We cannot let them destroy
all we have fought for.
403
00:26:12,520 --> 00:26:16,240
[clatter of hammering]
404
00:26:16,320 --> 00:26:18,160
[indistinct chattering]
405
00:26:25,960 --> 00:26:29,120
This is a generous gesture, Lord King.
406
00:26:29,200 --> 00:26:31,200
I know I speak for the people of Mercia
407
00:26:31,280 --> 00:26:34,520
when I say we are grateful
for your men’s labor.
408
00:26:34,600 --> 00:26:38,440
Come on, men! Let our friends
from Wessex see our strength!
409
00:26:38,520 --> 00:26:40,680
[man] Ladies of Wessex, don't pout.
410
00:26:40,760 --> 00:26:42,320
Is this intended as a slight?
411
00:26:43,480 --> 00:26:44,800
Oh, no, Lord King.
412
00:26:45,120 --> 00:26:47,640
He merely strives to redeem
his family name
413
00:26:47,720 --> 00:26:49,080
and I, for one, look on it kindly.
414
00:26:49,360 --> 00:26:53,160
His father lost his lands
in very undignified circumstances.
415
00:26:53,240 --> 00:26:56,200
He merely has the drive
of one tainted by disgrace.
416
00:26:56,640 --> 00:26:57,840
Eardwulf?
417
00:27:01,720 --> 00:27:04,360
I believe you pulled me to safety
during the battle.
418
00:27:04,880 --> 00:27:07,880
Yes, Lord King, I did,
something I’d do for any warrior.
419
00:27:08,560 --> 00:27:12,120
Tell me, how are the Mercian Guard
minded on the succession
420
00:27:12,200 --> 00:27:13,920
should your Lord depart this life?
421
00:27:15,160 --> 00:27:16,480
We have no view on it.
422
00:27:17,240 --> 00:27:19,960
They’re loyal to the leader of Mercia,
whoever that is.
423
00:27:21,200 --> 00:27:23,480
They have little time for politics, but...
424
00:27:23,560 --> 00:27:26,360
They’re good men
who respond to strong leadership.
425
00:27:29,400 --> 00:27:33,320
Well, I thank you for your honesty
and your action on the battlefield.
426
00:27:35,960 --> 00:27:37,080
Lord King!
427
00:27:38,360 --> 00:27:41,520
On behalf of my people, I demand that
you remove your troops from Aegelesburg.
428
00:27:43,560 --> 00:27:46,760
I will not abandon Mercia,
when she is in need.
429
00:27:46,840 --> 00:27:49,480
It’s clearly a provocative show
of strength!
430
00:27:49,960 --> 00:27:52,320
I know that you are a man in grief,
431
00:27:52,400 --> 00:27:55,960
but may I suggest you remove yourself
from the King's presence?
432
00:28:02,200 --> 00:28:03,200
Gladly.
433
00:28:04,360 --> 00:28:06,360
I’ve had my fill of Wessex.
434
00:28:07,920 --> 00:28:11,720
There are ways to make men
Lord of Mercia without the Witan.
435
00:28:11,800 --> 00:28:13,560
You seek to control us...
436
00:28:16,200 --> 00:28:17,480
and I will use them.
437
00:28:23,480 --> 00:28:25,920
I fear these are not vacant threats.
438
00:28:26,400 --> 00:28:29,640
Burgred will do something foolish
to place his son on the throne.
439
00:28:30,160 --> 00:28:32,600
Has he not lost one child already?
440
00:28:32,920 --> 00:28:35,280
Aethelred is fading, Lord.
441
00:28:35,880 --> 00:28:37,040
Time is pressing.
442
00:28:42,840 --> 00:28:46,680
- What do you make of Ludeca?
- He cares deeply for peace, which is good.
443
00:28:46,760 --> 00:28:51,080
But he also cares deeply for Mercia,
which may lead us into conflict in time.
444
00:28:52,360 --> 00:28:55,520
He seems a man of piety and reason.
445
00:28:55,600 --> 00:28:58,600
But how old will he be when Aelfwynn
is of age to produce an heir?
446
00:28:59,600 --> 00:29:03,560
He is not much older than I am
and I am still active in the field.
447
00:29:04,040 --> 00:29:05,600
Aethelflaed will not like it.
448
00:29:05,680 --> 00:29:10,160
With respect, your sister
needs to start doing as she’s told.
449
00:29:12,160 --> 00:29:16,040
That man Eardwulf,
he seems respected by his warriors.
450
00:29:16,840 --> 00:29:19,400
He is younger and we know him to be brave.
451
00:29:19,480 --> 00:29:20,840
But he’s not an Ealdorman.
452
00:29:21,440 --> 00:29:23,080
Find out what you can about him.
453
00:29:24,160 --> 00:29:28,200
[men shouting]
454
00:29:39,560 --> 00:29:41,200
Do not ask me!
455
00:29:42,240 --> 00:29:43,560
What is Edward planning?
456
00:29:43,640 --> 00:29:46,000
I do not know,
and I’ve had enough of politics!
457
00:29:47,160 --> 00:29:51,280
You got in trouble for raising the Welsh?
You did what was needed.
458
00:29:51,360 --> 00:29:54,600
Did I? Hundreds dead, Mercia in turmoil!
459
00:29:54,680 --> 00:29:58,360
- It turned the tide against the Danes.
- And led to new chaos and new divisions!
460
00:29:58,440 --> 00:30:02,400
Look how the people turn on each other.
This is what happens when kings weaken.
461
00:30:02,480 --> 00:30:05,176
The lines of command are broken
and the people on the streets suffer.
462
00:30:05,200 --> 00:30:08,960
Nonetheless, I need you to find out what
Edward is planning to do with his troops.
463
00:30:09,040 --> 00:30:13,520
No. I’m a man who speaks the truth,
or at my worst, a man who uses his fists.
464
00:30:13,600 --> 00:30:15,960
I was not built for spying and betrayal!
465
00:30:16,040 --> 00:30:17,560
[sighs] I’ll leave you.
466
00:30:20,080 --> 00:30:21,360
Beocca warned me.
467
00:30:22,120 --> 00:30:25,320
He said I might have to choose
between my conscience and my King.
468
00:30:26,400 --> 00:30:29,560
But what if it was a message
to be steadfast that I ignored,
469
00:30:29,640 --> 00:30:31,080
seeking my own glory?
470
00:30:33,200 --> 00:30:34,800
[inhales]
471
00:30:34,880 --> 00:30:36,480
Beocca saw things...
472
00:30:37,680 --> 00:30:39,680
more clearly than the rest of us.
473
00:30:40,560 --> 00:30:41,960
He knew what was coming.
474
00:30:42,040 --> 00:30:44,920
[inhales and exhales slowly]
475
00:30:45,000 --> 00:30:47,120
And he knew that you would choose wisely.
476
00:30:57,680 --> 00:30:59,760
[grunting and snoring]
477
00:31:20,720 --> 00:31:22,480
Where are you taking these women?
478
00:31:25,120 --> 00:31:28,080
On a pilgrimage
to the shrine of Saint Wite.
479
00:31:28,160 --> 00:31:30,600
We will give thanks for our great victory.
480
00:31:30,680 --> 00:31:33,720
You shall not leave the town.
An order has come from Aegelesburg.
481
00:31:34,400 --> 00:31:36,320
You are to be confined as a punishment
482
00:31:36,400 --> 00:31:38,560
for raising an army
without the King's consent.
483
00:31:40,120 --> 00:31:42,760
And when was this confinement decided?
484
00:31:42,840 --> 00:31:45,240
I've been asked to enact
the will of the King.
485
00:31:46,360 --> 00:31:48,720
Have Lady Aelswith guarded
in the Reading Room.
486
00:31:48,800 --> 00:31:50,480
[women mutter and gasp]
487
00:31:51,200 --> 00:31:52,360
Do as Cenric orders!
488
00:31:53,800 --> 00:31:55,400
Ignore this girl!
489
00:31:57,840 --> 00:32:00,360
She speaks without authority.
490
00:32:02,720 --> 00:32:06,600
- Look how she trembles!
- Do you defy the will of the King?
491
00:32:07,560 --> 00:32:09,400
You are not the King.
492
00:32:09,480 --> 00:32:12,480
No, but I am anointed Queen.
493
00:32:12,560 --> 00:32:15,360
And in Edward's absence,
my will takes precedence.
494
00:32:20,040 --> 00:32:21,520
I will not fight against it.
495
00:32:23,160 --> 00:32:26,960
I simply ask that a soldier bring
a prayer book to my room,
496
00:32:27,040 --> 00:32:28,840
so that I may reflect.
497
00:32:37,080 --> 00:32:40,680
[Ludeca] It will be resolved
with a little will on all sides. [laughs]
498
00:32:41,680 --> 00:32:42,800
Some wine...
499
00:32:46,120 --> 00:32:49,880
He is honest and good-natured,
but I am troubled by his age.
500
00:32:52,560 --> 00:32:54,440
Should I offer Ludeca my niece...
501
00:32:55,040 --> 00:32:59,080
as a dowry in return
for a renewal of the alliance?
502
00:32:59,640 --> 00:33:02,800
That is, of course, your decision,
503
00:33:02,880 --> 00:33:06,400
but I would follow your instincts.
504
00:33:06,960 --> 00:33:08,920
Look to the hero of the battle.
505
00:33:10,560 --> 00:33:12,680
No more trouble in the taverns, I hope.
506
00:33:12,960 --> 00:33:15,480
We will send men to water down the ale,
Lord King.
507
00:33:15,560 --> 00:33:17,520
Lord Aethelhelm asked me
to join you at the table.
508
00:33:17,560 --> 00:33:19,120
I did indeed, welcome.
509
00:33:21,560 --> 00:33:22,600
Continue.
510
00:33:23,960 --> 00:33:26,880
The Mercian Guard is loyal to him.
511
00:33:26,960 --> 00:33:29,760
It would bring the fighting force
under your command.
512
00:33:30,640 --> 00:33:34,440
As you know, he’s keen to restore his name
513
00:33:34,520 --> 00:33:37,040
and he served Aethelred
with complete loyalty.
514
00:33:37,120 --> 00:33:39,040
They even called him The Arse-licker.
515
00:33:40,680 --> 00:33:42,480
I do not want an arse-licker.
516
00:33:42,560 --> 00:33:45,400
I want a man
who will serve all of our interests.
517
00:33:46,800 --> 00:33:52,280
Yes, someone who will work with us
to achieve the peace you need.
518
00:33:52,360 --> 00:33:54,320
But the choice is yours.
519
00:33:56,880 --> 00:33:58,800
Is there more trouble in the town?
520
00:33:58,880 --> 00:34:00,360
Does Burgred gather men?
521
00:34:00,960 --> 00:34:01,960
No.
522
00:34:02,600 --> 00:34:04,680
No, the King just asked I sit beside you.
523
00:34:08,400 --> 00:34:11,440
It’s a sign that he wishes to propose
to the Ealdormen and the Mercian Guard
524
00:34:11,520 --> 00:34:13,199
that I should be the successor.
525
00:34:18,840 --> 00:34:20,040
Do I have your loyalty?
526
00:34:22,280 --> 00:34:24,000
The Guard are loyal to the leader
of Mercia.
527
00:34:24,080 --> 00:34:25,080
Good.
528
00:34:25,480 --> 00:34:27,520
Then finally order will be restored.
529
00:34:36,120 --> 00:34:38,760
[Aethelred breathes heavily]
530
00:34:39,719 --> 00:34:42,199
[softly] Thank you for staying by my side.
531
00:34:42,840 --> 00:34:44,800
Your wife has commanded it.
532
00:34:45,679 --> 00:34:48,920
They all wish me dead, do they not?
533
00:34:51,560 --> 00:34:55,320
Why? Did I do something
to offend my people?
534
00:34:59,960 --> 00:35:03,560
All of you, leave me alone... with...
535
00:35:05,960 --> 00:35:07,080
with Eadith.
536
00:35:17,600 --> 00:35:19,240
I remembered your name.
537
00:35:23,040 --> 00:35:24,640
Were we in love?
538
00:35:25,680 --> 00:35:28,040
Though I know I regret
to see you suffer...
539
00:35:29,600 --> 00:35:32,000
I could not in truth say that I loved you.
540
00:35:35,440 --> 00:35:37,640
If I mistreated you, then I am sorry.
541
00:35:42,920 --> 00:35:44,760
Women are used to being mistreated.
542
00:35:46,760 --> 00:35:48,480
We are taught to endure it.
543
00:35:49,440 --> 00:35:51,080
Will you survive without me?
544
00:35:52,120 --> 00:35:53,560
I do not know.
545
00:35:56,160 --> 00:35:57,840
I have survived a great deal.
546
00:35:58,880 --> 00:36:04,400
Tell me the truth. Am I to die?
547
00:36:11,320 --> 00:36:14,240
Prayers are being said for you, yes.
548
00:36:15,560 --> 00:36:20,200
The rumor is that your mind fails
and you will die, Lord.
549
00:36:20,880 --> 00:36:22,480
Then I need a miracle.
550
00:36:25,000 --> 00:36:27,080
And it’s not clear that I am owed one.
551
00:36:29,840 --> 00:36:32,640
You could try praying on the relics
of our beloved Saint.
552
00:36:33,240 --> 00:36:37,040
For all your mistakes in Mercia,
gathering his bones was not one of them.
553
00:36:37,120 --> 00:36:40,760
They’re in the treasury.
Ask for them to be brought to me.
554
00:36:40,840 --> 00:36:42,280
I will fetch them.
555
00:36:45,080 --> 00:36:47,080
Perhaps they will bring you to yourself.
556
00:36:47,560 --> 00:36:49,120
Or just a scrap of luck.
557
00:36:51,600 --> 00:36:54,520
I fear that I have much to account for.
558
00:37:02,720 --> 00:37:05,440
This reminds me
of when I drank with your father last.
559
00:37:05,520 --> 00:37:08,240
He had just secured victory
at the battle of Ethandun.
560
00:37:08,320 --> 00:37:09,800
The feasting was magnificent.
561
00:37:09,880 --> 00:37:13,560
My father always felt our two lands
thrived when we broke bread together.
562
00:37:13,640 --> 00:37:16,320
Exactly, the unity between us is critical,
563
00:37:16,400 --> 00:37:19,800
both countries, side by side,
equal like brothers.
564
00:37:19,880 --> 00:37:22,280
But with deference to King Edward.
565
00:37:22,640 --> 00:37:24,760
With mutual respect, yes.
566
00:37:31,680 --> 00:37:33,400
We should discuss this unity.
567
00:37:34,200 --> 00:37:35,920
And the betrothal of my niece.
568
00:37:36,000 --> 00:37:38,240
It seems wise to secure one
with the other...
569
00:37:38,880 --> 00:37:41,280
subject, of course,
to the approval of the Ealdormen.
570
00:37:41,720 --> 00:37:44,600
The Ealdormen will do my bidding.
I have them under my control.
571
00:37:45,600 --> 00:37:46,600
Hm.
572
00:37:47,200 --> 00:37:49,560
Well, as you know,
Lady Aelfwynn is dear to me.
573
00:37:49,640 --> 00:37:52,880
I should like her to be betrothed
to a man I trust.
574
00:37:52,960 --> 00:37:57,280
I agree that seems preferable. Her youth
means that she could be fertile for years.
575
00:37:58,000 --> 00:37:59,000
[glass thuds]
576
00:37:59,400 --> 00:38:01,360
[footsteps leaving]
577
00:38:01,440 --> 00:38:02,440
Yes.
578
00:38:03,120 --> 00:38:07,040
Well, obviously, we want a man
with standing in all parts of Mercia,
579
00:38:07,120 --> 00:38:08,720
someone we might see as a...
580
00:38:08,800 --> 00:38:10,896
I think the phrase
you’re searching for is peacemaker.
581
00:38:10,920 --> 00:38:13,600
Someone who can unite the divisions
in Mercia.
582
00:38:14,480 --> 00:38:15,480
Indeed.
583
00:38:16,880 --> 00:38:19,440
A peacemaker for times of peace.
584
00:38:21,800 --> 00:38:23,920
Could you be such a man, Eardwulf?
585
00:38:29,960 --> 00:38:31,760
Eardwulf is not an Ealdorman.
586
00:38:32,720 --> 00:38:34,520
His family was disgraced.
587
00:38:34,600 --> 00:38:36,800
Well, disgrace can be reversed
by royal decree.
588
00:38:41,120 --> 00:38:44,720
If you agree, all we would need
would be the approval of a Witan.
589
00:38:45,440 --> 00:38:47,560
And the Ealdormen will do your bidding,
will they not?
590
00:38:47,640 --> 00:38:50,000
Unless they feel that I am being cheated.
591
00:38:50,080 --> 00:38:51,560
[Edward] But you would not be.
592
00:38:51,640 --> 00:38:56,480
Because if Eardwulf takes the title,
the land he is owed becomes vacant.
593
00:38:57,280 --> 00:39:02,120
And those could be handed to you
in exchange for your generous support.
594
00:39:09,560 --> 00:39:10,720
To the peacemaker.
595
00:39:13,600 --> 00:39:14,600
Peacemaker.
596
00:39:16,640 --> 00:39:18,600
To the peacemaker.
597
00:39:26,800 --> 00:39:29,560
[footsteps approaching]
598
00:39:32,960 --> 00:39:36,360
Lord, I come with news
that will revive you.
599
00:39:40,400 --> 00:39:41,760
[sighs]
600
00:39:42,800 --> 00:39:44,840
Has a successor been chosen?
601
00:39:45,800 --> 00:39:48,960
The King wishes to betroth me
to your daughter.
602
00:39:52,360 --> 00:39:53,360
No.
603
00:39:55,000 --> 00:39:56,480
I will not agree to it.
604
00:39:57,400 --> 00:39:59,760
But her hand with mine will unite
the two kingdoms
605
00:39:59,840 --> 00:40:02,200
and I will be the peacemaker
who saves Mercia.
606
00:40:04,480 --> 00:40:07,120
I promised my wife
I would not act without her.
607
00:40:09,120 --> 00:40:13,400
Without a plan, King Edward will take
your throne and Mercia will be subsumed.
608
00:40:14,840 --> 00:40:17,840
Please, Lord, just trust that I have
Mercia's best interests at heart.
609
00:40:18,760 --> 00:40:22,080
I’m begging you.
Have I not always served you well?
610
00:40:25,360 --> 00:40:28,240
[breathes heavily]
611
00:40:28,320 --> 00:40:29,320
No.
612
00:40:31,280 --> 00:40:32,680
No, you do not.
613
00:40:35,200 --> 00:40:39,680
I cannot place it,
but my stomach tells me that you lie.
614
00:40:42,960 --> 00:40:43,960
Lord...
615
00:40:45,240 --> 00:40:47,360
I have never lied to you.
616
00:40:50,440 --> 00:40:52,680
[grunts]
617
00:40:54,760 --> 00:40:57,160
[gasps]
618
00:40:58,040 --> 00:41:00,040
You have a stench about you.
619
00:41:00,640 --> 00:41:02,760
[breathes heavily]
620
00:41:02,840 --> 00:41:04,840
You are not worthy of my daughter.
621
00:41:06,880 --> 00:41:10,200
[strained] You will never rule Mercia.
622
00:41:10,280 --> 00:41:12,480
[breathes heavily]
623
00:41:13,440 --> 00:41:14,600
[grunts]
624
00:41:17,240 --> 00:41:18,320
Get out.
625
00:41:19,480 --> 00:41:20,600
Leave me.
626
00:41:29,360 --> 00:41:32,760
[hoarse and softly] Guards, help!
627
00:41:32,840 --> 00:41:34,320
[gasping]
628
00:41:34,400 --> 00:41:35,400
[softly] Help...
629
00:41:37,200 --> 00:41:38,200
Hel...
630
00:41:42,280 --> 00:41:43,760
[yelps and groans]
631
00:41:48,520 --> 00:41:49,680
[grunts and groans]
632
00:42:04,240 --> 00:42:05,680
[neck snaps]
633
00:42:06,640 --> 00:42:13,640
[Eardwulf pants]
634
00:42:20,560 --> 00:42:23,600
You did not hear it from me.
I merely left the feast to take a piss.
635
00:42:23,680 --> 00:42:25,120
And if I am asked, I will deny it.
636
00:42:25,200 --> 00:42:27,560
Of course, Pyrlig,
I will not mention your name,
637
00:42:27,640 --> 00:42:31,000
but enough talking in corners,
I’ll simply confront him with it...
638
00:42:32,000 --> 00:42:36,280
Edward, tell me there is a mistake
that you have not broken our agreement
639
00:42:36,360 --> 00:42:38,200
and betrothed my daughter
without my knowledge.
640
00:42:38,240 --> 00:42:40,600
We are simply making plans
should the worst happen.
641
00:42:40,680 --> 00:42:43,640
You agreed Aelfwynn should not be used
as a bargaining piece.
642
00:42:43,720 --> 00:42:45,640
That was before King Edward
struck a bargain.
643
00:42:46,240 --> 00:42:49,160
Ludeca, you cannot be joined to Aelfwynn.
She’s a child.
644
00:42:50,160 --> 00:42:54,560
I’m not the suitor. I’m merely someone
trying to prevent chaos.
645
00:42:56,120 --> 00:42:58,840
So, who have you betrothed my daughter to?
646
00:43:35,200 --> 00:43:37,280
[Aethelflaed] Edward, you swore
you'd not betroth her
647
00:43:37,320 --> 00:43:38,360
to a man I despised.
648
00:43:38,440 --> 00:43:40,320
He is a great warrior.
He is a leader of men.
649
00:43:40,400 --> 00:43:43,120
Aethelred still rules here,
and he will not allow this.
650
00:43:49,080 --> 00:43:50,560
I cannot wake him.
651
00:44:00,560 --> 00:44:03,120
I had looked to this moment
for many years.
652
00:44:06,040 --> 00:44:09,560
And now it is here,
why do I feel as if I want to cry?
653
00:44:10,320 --> 00:44:13,880
I think he regretted the pain
he caused you, Lady.
654
00:44:15,320 --> 00:44:17,800
Lord have mercy on his soul and on us all.
655
00:44:20,720 --> 00:44:21,760
Prepare the body
656
00:44:21,840 --> 00:44:25,360
and inform your brother that his betrothal
will take place imminently.
657
00:44:26,840 --> 00:44:29,120
You are to be sister
to the new Lord of Mercia.
658
00:44:31,640 --> 00:44:33,816
- [Aethelflaed] Edward, I will fight this!
- You will not.
659
00:44:33,840 --> 00:44:36,096
You agreed that Aelfwynn's
betrothal was best for Mercia...
660
00:44:36,120 --> 00:44:39,040
I will not have my child condemned
to a life of misery.
661
00:44:42,240 --> 00:44:45,600
- Please, Ludeca, do not accept this plan.
- The plan offers stability.
662
00:44:45,880 --> 00:44:47,880
I believe it to be the best solution.
663
00:44:48,680 --> 00:44:51,440
Eardwulf is not the man to bring peace.
Please.
664
00:44:51,520 --> 00:44:54,080
Lady, begging is unbecoming.
665
00:44:54,840 --> 00:44:57,120
After everything I have done for Mercia...
666
00:44:57,760 --> 00:44:59,840
to have risked my life for this reward,
667
00:44:59,920 --> 00:45:02,280
my child thrown to a man
who will mistreat her?
668
00:45:02,360 --> 00:45:05,640
Perhaps it will teach her more deference
than her mother has.
669
00:45:12,920 --> 00:45:16,080
Ride to Saltwic. Fetch the Lady Aelfwynn.
670
00:45:16,760 --> 00:45:19,920
King Edward would like you
to ensure no force is used.
671
00:45:23,760 --> 00:45:24,800
[horse snorts]
672
00:45:24,880 --> 00:45:27,120
[hooves beating]
673
00:45:36,800 --> 00:45:37,800
He is gone.
674
00:45:38,440 --> 00:45:39,840
Aethelred is dead.
675
00:45:40,680 --> 00:45:41,760
Then you are free.
676
00:45:42,480 --> 00:45:43,960
He can torment you no longer.
677
00:45:45,520 --> 00:45:47,040
I wish that were true.
678
00:45:47,920 --> 00:45:51,000
But they seem to be set on destroying me
and all that matters.
679
00:45:55,120 --> 00:45:58,880
I thought Aethelred’s death would be
a chance for me to live in peace...
680
00:45:59,760 --> 00:46:01,400
after all this time.
681
00:46:02,840 --> 00:46:04,440
But they cast me aside...
682
00:46:05,320 --> 00:46:07,520
treat my child as a bag of silver.
683
00:46:08,480 --> 00:46:11,000
I will bargain a way out of this...
somehow I will.
684
00:46:11,080 --> 00:46:14,400
We do not need negotiation.
We must alert our allies,
685
00:46:14,480 --> 00:46:16,560
rally them against Eardwulf, if necessary.
686
00:46:16,640 --> 00:46:20,320
It would set the Mercian Fyrd against
the Wessex army. It would be a civil war.
687
00:46:20,920 --> 00:46:24,600
A group of riders have just been sent
by Lord Aethelhelm to Saltwic.
688
00:46:24,680 --> 00:46:26,000
They are to take Aelfwynn.
689
00:46:27,400 --> 00:46:28,960
Edward is not himself.
690
00:46:30,040 --> 00:46:31,600
I will speak with him again.
691
00:46:33,080 --> 00:46:35,960
Go to Ceaster.
Take her somewhere you can protect her.
692
00:46:40,160 --> 00:46:44,640
Lord, I’ve heard the terrible news.
I will inform the people of the tragedy.
693
00:46:45,440 --> 00:46:47,560
Our traditions will unite us in grief.
694
00:46:48,040 --> 00:46:49,960
May it bring a time of healing for Mercia.
695
00:46:52,800 --> 00:46:55,200
I fear my sister will not mourn him.
696
00:46:55,840 --> 00:46:58,560
With respect, Lord King,
your sister should follow the custom.
697
00:46:58,640 --> 00:47:01,480
She loves Mercia,
but she never loved its leader.
698
00:47:05,240 --> 00:47:08,160
Have Aethelflaed confined
until all this is settled.
699
00:47:08,560 --> 00:47:11,760
If only to save her offending
the Ealdormen by her lack of grief.
700
00:47:21,920 --> 00:47:25,760
- I do not wish to be confined.
- It’s a chance to mourn.
701
00:47:26,560 --> 00:47:29,200
May I suggest you make this simple
and comply?
702
00:47:45,280 --> 00:47:46,280
[door slams]
703
00:47:57,920 --> 00:47:58,920
Lady Aelswith...
704
00:48:00,640 --> 00:48:03,280
Good, a man I trust.
705
00:48:04,560 --> 00:48:06,560
Follow my next instructions...
706
00:48:07,040 --> 00:48:09,280
and I am sure you will be well rewarded.
707
00:48:11,360 --> 00:48:14,720
[birds chirping]
708
00:48:36,120 --> 00:48:37,120
[chuckles]
709
00:48:44,680 --> 00:48:46,040
[chomps and chuckles]
710
00:48:46,120 --> 00:48:47,600
- [chicks chirp]
- Dip-dip.
711
00:48:48,640 --> 00:48:51,440
[Stiorra] Was Bebbanburg as impressive
as we were told as children?
712
00:48:52,160 --> 00:48:53,160
It was more so...
713
00:48:53,760 --> 00:48:55,000
and harder to attack.
714
00:48:55,800 --> 00:48:58,800
Do you think we’ll ever return to it,
or is it lost forever?
715
00:48:58,880 --> 00:49:01,440
I don’t think I will see it again
in my lifetime.
716
00:49:03,040 --> 00:49:05,040
Perhaps our children will reclaim it.
717
00:49:05,920 --> 00:49:07,480
I do not want children.
718
00:49:08,880 --> 00:49:10,440
I’m tired of their company.
719
00:49:10,520 --> 00:49:12,120
[horses neighing]
720
00:49:17,880 --> 00:49:20,280
Aelfwynn, come in... now!
721
00:49:22,200 --> 00:49:23,320
Aethelstan...
722
00:49:26,080 --> 00:49:27,440
Men are riding this way.
723
00:49:27,520 --> 00:49:30,280
- Which men?
- I don’t know, but they’re coming.
724
00:49:31,920 --> 00:49:32,920
Wait!
725
00:49:34,400 --> 00:49:35,400
We have a plan.
726
00:49:40,080 --> 00:49:42,800
Oh? Can I help you? Are you lost?
727
00:49:42,880 --> 00:49:45,320
We’re taking Lady Aelfwynn to Aegelesburg.
728
00:49:45,760 --> 00:49:47,760
She’s already been taken to Winchester.
729
00:49:49,200 --> 00:49:50,400
Who by?
730
00:49:50,480 --> 00:49:53,000
Erm, I think he called himself Uhtred.
731
00:49:54,440 --> 00:49:55,440
Let us in!
732
00:49:57,800 --> 00:49:59,400
You two, search the grounds.
733
00:50:01,440 --> 00:50:02,840
The rest of you with me.
734
00:50:15,320 --> 00:50:16,800
Nothing here.
735
00:50:38,440 --> 00:50:39,440
Off!
736
00:50:46,400 --> 00:50:47,400
I told you...
737
00:50:47,960 --> 00:50:49,040
she’s not here.
738
00:50:50,680 --> 00:50:51,680
Let’s go!
739
00:50:52,920 --> 00:50:54,280
[sighs]
740
00:51:09,320 --> 00:51:10,480
Stiorra!
741
00:51:11,000 --> 00:51:12,000
Stiorra?
742
00:51:12,920 --> 00:51:15,120
Stiorra! It is your father!
743
00:51:17,560 --> 00:51:19,760
- Did they hurt you?
- No, it worked.
744
00:51:19,840 --> 00:51:21,440
- I sent them away.
- Good.
745
00:51:22,800 --> 00:51:24,120
Sihtric!
746
00:51:24,200 --> 00:51:25,240
I told you.
747
00:51:25,320 --> 00:51:27,880
- We prepared ourselves for an invasion.
- [chuckles] Lord!
748
00:51:28,480 --> 00:51:29,320
Is it over?
749
00:51:29,400 --> 00:51:31,680
- Hey, little trickster you got here.
- [Stiorra laughs]
750
00:51:31,760 --> 00:51:32,760
Where’s Aelfwynn?
751
00:51:40,400 --> 00:51:41,400
[whistles]
752
00:51:50,640 --> 00:51:53,280
Death came for mother faster
than she could ever know.
753
00:51:53,760 --> 00:51:56,400
I’ve always felt it would come for me,
at speed, from nowhere.
754
00:51:57,120 --> 00:52:00,280
When I saw the horses, Father,
I was prepared, but I wasn’t afraid.
755
00:52:00,760 --> 00:52:05,320
Besides, I had faith you’d come for me.
And I was right.
756
00:52:05,400 --> 00:52:08,760
[footsteps approaching]
757
00:52:12,560 --> 00:52:15,480
Bread, water and weapons,
the rest we’ll find on the road.
758
00:52:15,560 --> 00:52:17,480
Stiorra, get the children on the cart!
759
00:52:17,560 --> 00:52:18,760
We head north towards Ceaster.
760
00:52:18,800 --> 00:52:20,200
Do you think we have enough?
761
00:52:20,280 --> 00:52:22,080
With children and a band of five?
762
00:52:22,160 --> 00:52:25,320
It’s only until Aethelflaed
secures agreement from her brother.
763
00:52:26,320 --> 00:52:28,080
All will be made right.
764
00:52:36,800 --> 00:52:37,840
[door opens]
765
00:52:39,400 --> 00:52:42,760
Come. I have alerted the man
who protects you. He’s outside the window.
766
00:52:42,840 --> 00:52:45,560
If you think I will fall into a trap,
you are mistaken.
767
00:52:45,640 --> 00:52:49,080
- Please, Lady, I am trying to help you.
- Why would a mistress help a wife?
768
00:52:49,160 --> 00:52:52,560
Because Mercia has wronged us both
and our brothers have turned on us.
769
00:52:52,640 --> 00:52:54,280
Lady, we are not so different.
770
00:52:54,360 --> 00:52:56,360
I have never humped a man for influence.
771
00:52:56,440 --> 00:52:58,480
Just for your country
and political alliance.
772
00:52:58,960 --> 00:53:02,480
I never humped Aethelred willingly
and, believe me, I am paying for it. Go.
773
00:53:02,560 --> 00:53:06,760
I have nothing and no one. You have silver
and men that will help you.
774
00:53:08,200 --> 00:53:09,200
[grunts]
775
00:53:09,800 --> 00:53:10,920
Use them.
776
00:53:12,680 --> 00:53:13,760
Lady.
777
00:53:14,440 --> 00:53:17,920
- Will Eardwulf not kill you for this?
- He will try but he will not succeed.
778
00:53:18,000 --> 00:53:19,240
Go, Lady.
779
00:53:19,920 --> 00:53:23,320
My brother cannot be controlled
and will bring nothing but disaster.
780
00:53:25,040 --> 00:53:27,280
Find Uhtred on the road to Ceaster.
781
00:53:28,160 --> 00:53:30,960
Tell him to meet me at the ruins
of Saint Milburg's Priory.
782
00:53:31,040 --> 00:53:33,600
Do this and I will ensure
you never go penniless.
783
00:53:49,200 --> 00:53:50,200
[grunts]
784
00:53:50,840 --> 00:53:53,560
Aldhelm, do I really abandon Mercia
after everything?
785
00:53:53,640 --> 00:53:56,400
Lady, Mercia has abandoned you.
786
00:53:56,480 --> 00:53:57,680
- [Aethelflaed sighs]
- Go.
787
00:53:58,305 --> 00:54:58,251
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