0:00:02 > 0:00:04'My name is Uhtred, son of Uhtred.
0:00:04 > 0:00:07'I was born an ealdorman of Northumbria,
0:00:07 > 0:00:09'the rightful heir to Bebbanburg,
0:00:09 > 0:00:12'but fate decreed I would be raised as a Dane.
0:00:16 > 0:00:17'That was my life,
0:00:17 > 0:00:19'until my family was murdered.'
0:00:24 > 0:00:26ROARING
0:00:26 > 0:00:29'Word was spread that I was to blame.'
0:00:29 > 0:00:32A Saxon slave, he killed his master at a wedding party.
0:00:35 > 0:00:38'And so, with Brida, I fled to Wessex,
0:00:38 > 0:00:41'to Alfred, a man who would become King...
0:00:43 > 0:00:45'..though not all agreed.'
0:00:45 > 0:00:47I am my father's heir!
0:00:47 > 0:00:49'I swore an oath to this king...
0:00:50 > 0:00:52'..an oath that lost me Brida
0:00:52 > 0:00:55'and prevented me from joining my brother Ragnar.
0:00:57 > 0:00:59'But destiny is all.'
0:01:49 > 0:01:51You don't deserve to marry.
0:01:52 > 0:01:55That woman is a lady, and you are a heathen.
0:01:56 > 0:01:59You could bathe all day long and you'd still stink of pig-shit.
0:01:59 > 0:02:01Have you been watching me, Odda the boy?
0:02:03 > 0:02:04Should I be marrying you?
0:02:04 > 0:02:07Ten pieces of silver for you to walk away.
0:02:07 > 0:02:09Does your father know you're here?
0:02:09 > 0:02:1011 pieces.
0:02:16 > 0:02:19How about my sword's weight in silver?
0:02:19 > 0:02:20Nonsense.
0:02:22 > 0:02:26Then I'll marry the girl and tonight, I'll plough her.
0:02:28 > 0:02:30Why must you talk of her like that?
0:02:30 > 0:02:33Perhaps you'd like her for yourself, Odda?
0:02:33 > 0:02:35You want her beneath you. Am I right?
0:02:35 > 0:02:37You're impossible to reason with.
0:02:37 > 0:02:39Everything is a game.
0:02:40 > 0:02:44I hope, for Mildrith's sake, your time on this Earth is short.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47You are not an ealdorman and never shall be.
0:02:57 > 0:02:59Giddap!
0:03:09 > 0:03:12I wasn't allowed to meet her. I haven't seen her.
0:03:12 > 0:03:14It is the way.
0:03:14 > 0:03:17I was unaware of her existence till yesterday.
0:03:18 > 0:03:20She will be plain and pious.
0:03:20 > 0:03:22Oh, she'll be pious, all right!
0:03:22 > 0:03:25If she was a leg-spreader, Alfred would have been on her by now.
0:03:25 > 0:03:27Have you seen her?
0:03:27 > 0:03:29A distance away.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31"Plain" is a fair description.
0:03:32 > 0:03:34How much was the bride price?
0:03:34 > 0:03:3733 pieces, which I have paid to her godfather, Odda -
0:03:37 > 0:03:40and which I'll make sure she receives.
0:03:42 > 0:03:44I've made promises...
0:03:45 > 0:03:47Revenge and such.
0:03:47 > 0:03:49Why are you here?
0:03:49 > 0:03:50Do you know?
0:03:50 > 0:03:53She brings land. I'll become a lord under Alfred.
0:03:53 > 0:03:57I'll be able to make wealth, gather men,
0:03:57 > 0:04:00- take back what's mine. - All reasons enough.
0:04:01 > 0:04:03Plain or not, she serves her purpose.
0:04:03 > 0:04:06The promises you have made will stand.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08Blood feuds last a lifetime.
0:04:08 > 0:04:12What you do, arseling, is you keep living each day until the last.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19The priest has arrived, finally. Let's get this done.
0:04:21 > 0:04:23You do not need to "get this done".
0:04:23 > 0:04:25I will make a plea to Alfred.
0:04:32 > 0:04:35She is here, praise God.
0:04:35 > 0:04:37You should stand and look respectful,
0:04:37 > 0:04:39if not entirely clean.
0:04:39 > 0:04:41- How does she look? - Terrified, I'll bet.
0:04:50 > 0:04:53If you could be brief with the ceremony, Father Beocca,
0:04:53 > 0:04:55I would be grateful.
0:04:55 > 0:04:57I have business with the King.
0:04:57 > 0:05:00The bride has been given her price?
0:05:00 > 0:05:01She will.
0:05:06 > 0:05:07You are witness.
0:05:07 > 0:05:09Thank you, Lord.
0:05:10 > 0:05:13If the betrothed couple would like to join me at the altar...
0:05:16 > 0:05:18..and join hands.
0:05:18 > 0:05:19Be brief.
0:05:40 > 0:05:43May God in his heaven look down with mercy
0:05:43 > 0:05:47upon his devoted servants, Uhtred and Mildrith.
0:05:47 > 0:05:51May He bless their union with love and children and wealth -
0:05:51 > 0:05:55and may they, in turn, be sure to give thanks and praise
0:05:55 > 0:05:58and live each day according to His holy word.
0:05:58 > 0:06:00Amen.
0:06:00 > 0:06:01Amen.
0:06:01 > 0:06:03Amen.
0:06:03 > 0:06:06You are now joined as man and wife in the eyes of God.
0:06:11 > 0:06:14- MILDRITH SOBS - Tears of joy.
0:06:32 > 0:06:34Allow me to help you with that.
0:06:36 > 0:06:37Thank you, Lord.
0:06:40 > 0:06:44I am a lucky man, to have such a beautiful wife.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49There must have been many suitors, I'm sure.
0:06:49 > 0:06:51You are kind to believe so.
0:06:51 > 0:06:52Am I right?
0:06:54 > 0:06:56None suitable, Lord.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59My name is Uhtred. Call me Uhtred.
0:06:59 > 0:07:00Arseling!
0:07:00 > 0:07:02Time we were on our way.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06Or, from time to time, you may wish to call me "arseling".
0:07:16 > 0:07:17Lord.
0:07:20 > 0:07:21Danes.
0:07:23 > 0:07:24Why are we stopping?
0:07:26 > 0:07:27Who are they?
0:07:27 > 0:07:29Foragers, most likely.
0:07:30 > 0:07:32Danes, all the same.
0:07:32 > 0:07:34Will they attack?
0:07:34 > 0:07:35We walk on.
0:07:40 > 0:07:42They're following us.
0:07:42 > 0:07:44We walk on. They won't attack.
0:07:46 > 0:07:49Then why have you drawn your sword?
0:07:49 > 0:07:51To show them at least one of them will die.
0:07:53 > 0:07:54One or two.
0:07:56 > 0:07:58For foragers, they are deep into Wessex.
0:07:58 > 0:08:00They're Guthrum's men.
0:08:00 > 0:08:02They're a long way from Lundene.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13Lord, the marriage has taken place.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15They are now on the road to the farmstead.
0:08:15 > 0:08:17Good news. Thank you, Odda.
0:08:18 > 0:08:21We shall now see how he responds to the challenge.
0:08:22 > 0:08:25Now it is done, Lord, I do fear for Mildrith.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29She will have to give him the facts.
0:08:29 > 0:08:33Oh, he will bark at her, Odda, I am sure.
0:08:33 > 0:08:37But his real anger will be reserved for you and I.
0:08:37 > 0:08:39He will not like being beholden to God and to King,
0:08:39 > 0:08:43but if he is to become a true ealdorman,
0:08:43 > 0:08:45he must accept his burden - that is the test.
0:08:46 > 0:08:48Yes, Lord.
0:08:50 > 0:08:54- Mildrith is his beautiful consolation.- Hm.
0:08:57 > 0:08:59Was he struck by her?
0:09:02 > 0:09:04He was, Lord.
0:09:13 > 0:09:15Why are you not already married?
0:09:16 > 0:09:20You're old enough to have had two or three children by now.
0:09:20 > 0:09:25Lord Arseling, there is a time for such questions and it has passed.
0:09:25 > 0:09:28Why has Alfred gifted me such a beautiful bride?
0:09:32 > 0:09:34There's a debt, I'm guessing.
0:09:34 > 0:09:36It's not my place to tell you.
0:09:39 > 0:09:40How much?
0:09:42 > 0:09:46My father wanted to find favour with God,
0:09:46 > 0:09:49so he devoted a tenth of his land to the Church.
0:09:49 > 0:09:52They do not own it, but they are entitled to its yield.
0:09:52 > 0:09:58Indeed, they demand its yield, even when crops fail and Danes raid.
0:09:58 > 0:10:00God is good(!)
0:10:00 > 0:10:03So, the Bishop took my father to law.
0:10:03 > 0:10:05How much is the debt?
0:10:05 > 0:10:07The Church is the law,
0:10:07 > 0:10:10and the law decreed that my father owed to them a huge sum -
0:10:10 > 0:10:11quite beyond his ability to pay.
0:10:11 > 0:10:13How much?
0:10:14 > 0:10:17He died, soon after.
0:10:22 > 0:10:26It is a substantial amount, Lord. It increases yearly.
0:10:26 > 0:10:30Alfred could remove the debt, but he has chosen not to.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33The amount owed is 2,000 shillings, Lord.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35- LEOFRIC CHUCKLES - Damn him.
0:10:38 > 0:10:39Damn everything he stands for.
0:10:39 > 0:10:42- Damn his Church, damn his God... - Lord, I must say,
0:10:42 > 0:10:45- I do not like your blasphemy - it is wrong...- My name is Uhtred!
0:10:53 > 0:10:57Though, by all means, call me arseling for not seeing this sooner.
0:11:13 > 0:11:15Your new home, Lord.
0:11:15 > 0:11:18The land is good, but the buildings are in need of repair.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21Look, the families who live on the land have come to wish us well.
0:11:21 > 0:11:23Send them back to their homes.
0:11:24 > 0:11:26They have come to wish us well.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28I have known them my whole life.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31Lord. Lady.
0:11:31 > 0:11:34Oswald manages the farmstead. He lives nearby.
0:11:34 > 0:11:38Welcome home. And may we offer our good wishes on your marriage?
0:11:38 > 0:11:41Thank you, Oswald, thank you.
0:11:41 > 0:11:45And how kind of you all to gather to greet me and my Lord, Uhtred.
0:11:45 > 0:11:47We have prepared a table, Lord, for your pleasure.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52You have my thanks, but we are tired.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54Of course, Lord.
0:11:57 > 0:11:59Thank you, Oswald. You are kind.
0:12:00 > 0:12:04I have a wedding gift for each family.
0:12:04 > 0:12:08- 'Tis silver...- Thank you, Lady. - ..for your kindness
0:12:08 > 0:12:10- and your loyalty.- Thank you so much.
0:12:10 > 0:12:13For taking care of the land in my prolonged absence.
0:12:17 > 0:12:19Now, there's a welcome sight.
0:12:26 > 0:12:29I was expecting there to be a hall and I find a this.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35Pay off your debts and you can build a hall.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38Didn't I tell you the bastard thinks? Alfred.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42If he believes he can make me beg, he can think again.
0:12:44 > 0:12:47He doesn't want you to beg. He wants you to obey.
0:12:47 > 0:12:48Never.
0:12:50 > 0:12:52If you have need for me, Lord, I will be resting.
0:12:52 > 0:12:54It seems I am tired.
0:12:54 > 0:12:57I am 2,000 shillings in debt to the Church
0:12:57 > 0:12:59and you hand out silver to your tenants!
0:12:59 > 0:13:00It is my silver.
0:13:02 > 0:13:05- You can have what's in my purse. - I don't want what's in your purse.
0:13:05 > 0:13:07Then why scold me?
0:13:12 > 0:13:15The stoat, your farmstead master...
0:13:15 > 0:13:18- His name is Oswald. - He'll need to be watched.
0:13:18 > 0:13:21- He was trusted by my father.- He lives too well, by the look of him.
0:13:21 > 0:13:22I'll make my way to the barn.
0:13:22 > 0:13:26You're a guest, you can sleep in the house.
0:13:26 > 0:13:28I prefer the barn, thank you.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31It is your wedding night.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33Goodnight, Lady.
0:13:33 > 0:13:34Arseling.
0:13:43 > 0:13:44May I leave now?
0:13:45 > 0:13:50How many pieces of silver did you receive, as your price?
0:13:50 > 0:13:5118.
0:13:52 > 0:13:53Is that correct?
0:13:54 > 0:13:56The price was 33.
0:13:56 > 0:13:58I'm sure it was an honest mistake.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02You were robbed - as I was robbed.
0:14:04 > 0:14:08That price is your security and you will have it - all of it.
0:14:09 > 0:14:11May I rest?
0:14:15 > 0:14:16Yes.
0:14:17 > 0:14:21I'm sorry the day has been a disappointment for you, Lord -
0:14:21 > 0:14:23for us both.
0:14:40 > 0:14:41FIRE HISSES
0:14:55 > 0:14:56SPLASH OUTSIDE
0:15:18 > 0:15:19You have a good heart...
0:15:21 > 0:15:22..gifting your silver.
0:15:25 > 0:15:28Odda owes you 15 pieces more. I'll see that he pays.
0:15:30 > 0:15:32And the debt's not something I blame you for.
0:15:33 > 0:15:35It is Alfred's deceit.
0:15:35 > 0:15:37I should have been wiser...
0:15:41 > 0:15:42..though I was blinded by you.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54You should eat.
0:15:55 > 0:15:56I should eat.
0:15:57 > 0:15:59I don't want to eat alone.
0:16:01 > 0:16:03God has made me your wife.
0:16:03 > 0:16:05There must be a reason.
0:16:06 > 0:16:07God is good?
0:17:06 > 0:17:08What is it you're looking at?
0:17:17 > 0:17:20There's a scar across the land, there.
0:17:20 > 0:17:23The never-ending line of Danes on the march.
0:17:25 > 0:17:27Ragnar?
0:17:31 > 0:17:34By the time word reaches Alfred, it will be too late.
0:17:36 > 0:17:37They would need wings.
0:17:39 > 0:17:40Go!
0:17:44 > 0:17:48Oswald, what town lays in that direction?
0:17:48 > 0:17:49If they keep going to the west,
0:17:49 > 0:17:52in a day or so, they'll come to the fortress at Werham.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56Take your family and the others to the hills,
0:17:56 > 0:17:58till we're sure they've passed. Do it now.
0:17:58 > 0:18:02- And the Lady Mildrith? - She travels with me...
0:18:02 > 0:18:04to Winchester.
0:18:04 > 0:18:05Yes, Lord.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13How many do you see?
0:18:13 > 0:18:15The question is, how many will follow?
0:18:20 > 0:18:25Wessex is being invaded and we're told to wait while he prays.
0:18:25 > 0:18:27God is his strength, Uhtred.
0:18:27 > 0:18:29He needs to be on horseback, not on his knees.
0:18:32 > 0:18:34I hate this place.
0:18:34 > 0:18:35It grows worse.
0:18:38 > 0:18:40Mildrith?
0:18:40 > 0:18:42I was not told you were here. How pleasing to see you.
0:18:42 > 0:18:44Lord.
0:18:44 > 0:18:45And so much of you.
0:18:45 > 0:18:47Is he ready?
0:18:47 > 0:18:49The King is ready, as is his council.
0:18:51 > 0:18:52With me.
0:19:00 > 0:19:04You watched 300 men or more march clean across Wessex
0:19:04 > 0:19:06and you did nothing?
0:19:06 > 0:19:08I'm here.
0:19:08 > 0:19:11A messenger could have been sent in your place - a boy!
0:19:11 > 0:19:14Why did you not confront these Danes? You have men.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16That is your purpose, to create warriors.
0:19:16 > 0:19:18I have been given barely 20 men and their wives,
0:19:18 > 0:19:21most of whom work the fields. It would have been a slaughter, Lord.
0:19:21 > 0:19:24But you chose not to fight. We'll never know.
0:19:24 > 0:19:26A warrior can only die once! Why die in vain?
0:19:26 > 0:19:30The Danes have travelled from either Lundene or East Anglia.
0:19:30 > 0:19:31Were they not being watched?
0:19:31 > 0:19:34We have been watching the ships, which remain on the Thames.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37- A mistake.- If Werham is captured, the ships will follow.
0:19:37 > 0:19:40300 men will become 3,000.
0:19:40 > 0:19:42My advice is that we march, without delay.
0:19:42 > 0:19:44I don't recall the King seeking your advice.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47Leofric, my trusted man - how many Danes did you witness?
0:19:47 > 0:19:49More than 200, by far.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52Warriors, to a man.
0:19:52 > 0:19:54Werham will struggle to hold them back.
0:19:54 > 0:19:55The peace is over.
0:19:57 > 0:19:59We have no choice but to march on Werham
0:19:59 > 0:20:02and pray God we arrive before the fortress falls.
0:20:02 > 0:20:05You believe it is an invasion, Lord?
0:20:05 > 0:20:08It could well be the beginning of a great Dane army, yes.
0:20:08 > 0:20:12Council is over. Ealdormen of Wessex, prepare your men.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15Father Beocca? I shall pray, before we leave.
0:20:15 > 0:20:16Yes, my Lord.
0:20:18 > 0:20:21Father, I wish to speak to the King privately.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23I will ask,
0:20:23 > 0:20:26but I note that you have still to learn respect.
0:20:29 > 0:20:32Ealdorman Odda, if I may speak out?
0:20:34 > 0:20:37You owe my wife half of her bride price.
0:20:37 > 0:20:41I paid 33 pieces of silver. She received only 18.
0:20:41 > 0:20:43An honest mistake, she assures me.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48Is this true?
0:20:53 > 0:20:54Pay him.
0:20:59 > 0:21:00Ready the men to march on Werham.
0:21:03 > 0:21:07You should know that Mildrith is a joy to plough.
0:21:07 > 0:21:08You are heathen.
0:21:10 > 0:21:12And you're a virgin.
0:21:12 > 0:21:14No, I'm not.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20Yes, he is.
0:21:24 > 0:21:28CLAMOUR
0:21:45 > 0:21:47What is it? Hm?
0:21:47 > 0:21:49Promise me you will come back safely.
0:21:50 > 0:21:52Two arms, both ears(!)
0:21:52 > 0:21:54Promise me!
0:21:55 > 0:21:59I'll do my best,
0:21:59 > 0:22:01but only if you do the same.
0:22:01 > 0:22:03If they come, don't shelter in a church or nunnery.
0:22:03 > 0:22:07Go to the hills, the woods. I'll come...
0:22:09 > 0:22:10Hm.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12..for both of you.
0:22:13 > 0:22:15Arseling!
0:22:15 > 0:22:17Kiss her, and let's be on our way.
0:23:32 > 0:23:35Mildrith, my dear, I've been looking for you.
0:23:35 > 0:23:37My Lady Aelswith! How good to see you
0:23:37 > 0:23:39and to see you looking as you do.
0:23:39 > 0:23:41It refuses to keep still.
0:23:41 > 0:23:44- Mine is the same. - Oh, how we suffer.
0:23:44 > 0:23:46I pray we both survive.
0:23:46 > 0:23:48I pray we four survive.
0:23:48 > 0:23:49- God will decide.- Mm.
0:23:51 > 0:23:53I have missed you, Mildrith -
0:23:53 > 0:23:56and have prayed for you each day, you poor thing.
0:23:56 > 0:23:58Why poor?
0:23:58 > 0:24:02Living with the man they foisted onto you, the pagan,
0:24:02 > 0:24:05having to take his seed and the like.
0:24:05 > 0:24:08Uhtred is decent. He treats me well.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11He does!
0:24:11 > 0:24:13God will bless your loyalty,
0:24:13 > 0:24:17but with luck, he will fall in battle, and soon.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23Please tell me that you're hungry.
0:24:23 > 0:24:25I am, a little.
0:24:25 > 0:24:29Meet me in the kitchens. I have arranged a meal, for the pregnant.
0:24:29 > 0:24:30But do not rush prayers.
0:24:30 > 0:24:32No, no, of course not.
0:24:41 > 0:24:43DOOR OPENS AND SHUTS
0:24:43 > 0:24:47Lord, he is not your most humble or devout servant,
0:24:47 > 0:24:49but I pray...
0:24:50 > 0:24:51..keep him safe...
0:24:53 > 0:24:54..let him do your work...
0:24:55 > 0:24:57..let him see his child.
0:25:02 > 0:25:06I was pleased to see your lady today, your wife...
0:25:06 > 0:25:08carrying a child.
0:25:08 > 0:25:09Yes.
0:25:09 > 0:25:11It's God's blessing.
0:25:12 > 0:25:15It seems like only yesterday I was baptising you as Osbert,
0:25:15 > 0:25:17and then again, as Uhtred.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22What is it you wish to speak about with the King?
0:25:22 > 0:25:25That is between myself and the King.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27He is watching you, Uhtred.
0:25:27 > 0:25:29- God?- Alfred.
0:25:30 > 0:25:32He is watching how you behave, he's judging you as a lord.
0:25:32 > 0:25:34He has no right to judge.
0:25:34 > 0:25:35He's a king.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41He lied to me, regarding the marriage.
0:25:41 > 0:25:43Are you referring to the debt?
0:25:43 > 0:25:46- You know of it? - It's not a secret.
0:25:46 > 0:25:48And I urge you to show him you accept it,
0:25:48 > 0:25:51especially as it is owed to the Church.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56You must remain calm, Uhtred, respectful.
0:26:06 > 0:26:10- My Lord, I requested a private audience...- Have you eaten?
0:26:12 > 0:26:13No.
0:26:15 > 0:26:19There are times when I crave meat...
0:26:22 > 0:26:24..and other things,
0:26:24 > 0:26:26but I know the gratification would be fleeting,
0:26:26 > 0:26:28the suffering prolonged.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31And so, I suffer gruel,
0:26:31 > 0:26:33though my wife will not allow it to be called
0:26:33 > 0:26:36anything other than broth.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39You will be happy to learn that my spies have news.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42- From Werham?- From Ireland.
0:26:42 > 0:26:45Ivar, the brother of Ubba, has been killed there,
0:26:45 > 0:26:47which would be irrelevant but for the fact
0:26:47 > 0:26:49that Ubba wishes to avenge him personally.
0:26:49 > 0:26:50This is true?
0:26:52 > 0:26:57An Irishman across the sea kills a Dane and the world changes.
0:26:58 > 0:26:59The hand of God.
0:27:02 > 0:27:06Is this something Ubba would do - abandon Guthrum?
0:27:06 > 0:27:09To avenge his brother, yes, if guided by his sorcerer's story.
0:27:11 > 0:27:12He has a sorcerer?
0:27:14 > 0:27:17And, er... What does this sorcerer do -
0:27:17 > 0:27:19cast spells, perform magic?
0:27:19 > 0:27:24He advises, Lord. He looks for omens, signs - good and bad.
0:27:24 > 0:27:26Oh, what nonsense.
0:27:28 > 0:27:30What are miracles, Lord, if not magic?
0:27:30 > 0:27:33Miracles are performed by God, not man.
0:27:33 > 0:27:36The Danes would say the same - that omens are gifts from the gods.
0:27:36 > 0:27:37And they are mistaken.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40Who gave the sign for Ubba to go to Ireland?
0:27:40 > 0:27:43- It was the hand of your God? Or theirs?- There is only one God.
0:27:43 > 0:27:45Then he must have spoken to the Danes.
0:27:48 > 0:27:49With Ubba now in Ireland,
0:27:49 > 0:27:53Guthrum must now decide whether he will fight alone.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55He won't fight alone.
0:27:55 > 0:27:57Not that he couldn't win.
0:27:57 > 0:28:00He will fear losing too many of his own men.
0:28:00 > 0:28:01Yes, Lord.
0:28:03 > 0:28:04I am learning...
0:28:05 > 0:28:09..that the heathen cares only for personal gain.
0:28:09 > 0:28:12A Dane could never suffer my gruel.
0:28:12 > 0:28:13Broth, Lord.
0:28:16 > 0:28:20You are happy, Ealdorman Uhtred, with Mildrith?
0:28:21 > 0:28:23Yes, Lord. She's a good wife.
0:28:26 > 0:28:27Though I never would have married her,
0:28:27 > 0:28:31- had I known I'd owe 2,000 shillings. - Which increases yearly.
0:28:31 > 0:28:33I am told that on your word, the debt can be lifted.
0:28:33 > 0:28:36Why should I deny the Church 2,000 shillings?
0:28:36 > 0:28:38- I wasn't aware I would owe it. - It is not a secret.
0:28:41 > 0:28:45Sacrifice and penance are what separate us from the heathen.
0:28:45 > 0:28:47I have my broth, you have your debt.
0:28:50 > 0:28:54Wessex needs an army, would you agree?
0:28:54 > 0:28:57A permanent and formidable army.
0:29:00 > 0:29:01Yes, Lord.
0:29:02 > 0:29:07England, when it finally emerges, shall need a greater army.
0:29:08 > 0:29:12Garrisons of many thousands of men. All will need feeding and payment.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16It is my intention that all landowners
0:29:16 > 0:29:19shall contribute to the feeding of this army and its commanders.
0:29:20 > 0:29:23And I will need commanders, Uhtred.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27Men like the great generals of Rome.
0:29:30 > 0:29:34Look upon the debt as a gift -
0:29:34 > 0:29:38a means of proving your devotion to Wessex and to England.
0:29:38 > 0:29:42- If I'd been told the truth from the outset, Lord, I could... - You still wear the amulet, I see.
0:29:43 > 0:29:47- To remind me of Earl Ragnar... - And why do you not attend church, with your wife?
0:29:47 > 0:29:49Why do you not pray to God?
0:29:49 > 0:29:53God created everything that surrounds me -
0:29:53 > 0:29:56the fields, rivers, the forests. The land is my church.
0:29:56 > 0:29:59And I pray each day, Lord...
0:30:00 > 0:30:01..in silence.
0:30:19 > 0:30:21He cannot be tamed.
0:30:21 > 0:30:23But he can be trusted.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28I will not abandon him completely.
0:30:29 > 0:30:31He may have a use, I'm sure.
0:30:40 > 0:30:43BELL CLANGS
0:30:43 > 0:30:46Hear me now! Werham has fallen!
0:30:46 > 0:30:52We march at once! Every man is to be ready to do as the King asks.
0:30:52 > 0:30:55The Danes have taken the fortress!
0:30:55 > 0:30:57Werham has fallen! We march at once!
0:30:57 > 0:31:01We could be slipping in blood and entrails before the day is out.
0:31:01 > 0:31:02With luck.
0:31:21 > 0:31:25CLAMOUR
0:31:34 > 0:31:37Leave him. There's enough for everyone.
0:31:44 > 0:31:46DOOR OPENS
0:31:46 > 0:31:48Guthrum, they're here.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51The Saxon army is gathering.
0:31:51 > 0:31:53- Is it Alfred?- Yes.
0:31:55 > 0:31:58Is the fortress repaired and secure?
0:31:58 > 0:31:59Yes.
0:31:59 > 0:32:01Good.
0:32:01 > 0:32:03He will not attack. He doesn't need to.
0:32:03 > 0:32:05He knows we will be hungry within days.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07We can raid.
0:32:07 > 0:32:10No, he will empty all the grain-stores
0:32:10 > 0:32:11in the surrounding villages.
0:32:14 > 0:32:20I have found these church rooms to be strangely quiet and peaceful.
0:32:21 > 0:32:25Lord, I didn't march my men halfway across England
0:32:25 > 0:32:26for them to starve.
0:32:27 > 0:32:29I shall be on the ramparts.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33We came for war, Ragnar, but Ubba has reneged.
0:32:33 > 0:32:35To avenge his brother.
0:32:35 > 0:32:37You are here.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41Should you not be avenging your father?
0:32:43 > 0:32:45- When the time is right.- Yes!
0:32:45 > 0:32:47When the time is right!
0:32:50 > 0:32:53We have taken the first steps against Wessex...
0:32:55 > 0:32:57..but Ubba has left us weak.
0:32:58 > 0:33:00He put all of our of lives at risk.
0:33:01 > 0:33:05So, until Ubba returns, we have to make peace.
0:33:15 > 0:33:16Argh!
0:33:19 > 0:33:23So, if you are there, God of Rome...
0:33:25 > 0:33:26..strike me down.
0:33:29 > 0:33:31I thought not.
0:33:33 > 0:33:36We are here to show them how many we are...
0:33:36 > 0:33:40We are here to show them how many we are!
0:33:40 > 0:33:44..that we are here with God and that this is our land...
0:33:44 > 0:33:47That we are here with God
0:33:47 > 0:33:49and this is our land!
0:33:49 > 0:33:52This is our land!
0:33:52 > 0:33:53Our Wessex!
0:33:54 > 0:33:56This is our England...
0:33:58 > 0:34:02..and we shall murder any heathen bastard that tries to take it!
0:34:02 > 0:34:05CHEERING
0:34:21 > 0:34:23ROARING
0:34:23 > 0:34:25They wish to talk, Lord.
0:34:25 > 0:34:27I know what they want.
0:34:27 > 0:34:29They want time.
0:34:29 > 0:34:31Odda, with your guards, you shall go with me.
0:34:31 > 0:34:34Leofric, you as well - and Father Selbix.
0:34:34 > 0:34:36Yes, Lord.
0:34:36 > 0:34:38Leofric, what do you make of the fortress?
0:34:38 > 0:34:40It looks strong enough, Lord.
0:34:41 > 0:34:44No breach, no signs of lasting damage.
0:34:45 > 0:34:46And if we attacked?
0:34:48 > 0:34:49We would suffer.
0:34:51 > 0:34:53We'd be lucky to see the inside, Lord.
0:34:55 > 0:34:57Good morning, King Alfred.
0:34:57 > 0:35:00Guthrum of the Danes.
0:35:00 > 0:35:03I too am a king now - of East Anglia.
0:35:03 > 0:35:05You don't need to bow.
0:35:06 > 0:35:09I will begin. I propose a truce.
0:35:11 > 0:35:15For any truce to occur, Earl Guthrum, you must leave Wessex - once again.
0:35:15 > 0:35:16And if I refuse?
0:35:16 > 0:35:18We surround you.
0:35:18 > 0:35:20Yes, you surround a small fortress,
0:35:20 > 0:35:22but we Danes surround your entire Kingdom.
0:35:22 > 0:35:25That said, I have decided I shall leave - by sea.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29Therefore, I will send for ships.
0:35:29 > 0:35:30How many ships?
0:35:30 > 0:35:32No more than 15.
0:35:32 > 0:35:35Very well. Your ships have one month in which to arrive.
0:35:35 > 0:35:39- Not enough time.- Food and ale for one month only,
0:35:39 > 0:35:42or you will walk back to East Anglia.
0:35:42 > 0:35:45Then I will send for 200 ships and hope they arrive before we starve.
0:35:45 > 0:35:47One month is not enough.
0:35:47 > 0:35:48That is my limit.
0:35:48 > 0:35:51You cannot take back the fortress, you know this.
0:35:51 > 0:35:54Food and ale for one month, no more,
0:35:54 > 0:35:57by which time, the sea storms will have arrived.
0:35:57 > 0:35:58God's storms.
0:35:58 > 0:36:00We will be gone within a month...
0:36:01 > 0:36:04..beginning upon the delivery of food and ale.
0:36:15 > 0:36:18Uhtred, you will come to me following prayers.
0:36:18 > 0:36:20Yes, Lord.
0:36:20 > 0:36:23- Father Selbix, you will pray with me.- Yes, Lord.
0:36:27 > 0:36:29Please, sit.
0:36:33 > 0:36:34Thank you, Lord.
0:36:37 > 0:36:40I have a task for you, Father.
0:36:40 > 0:36:42You only have to speak it.
0:36:44 > 0:36:46As a guarantee of the peace,
0:36:46 > 0:36:49you will be given up as a hostage - one of ten.
0:36:49 > 0:36:51The Danes, too, will give ten in exchange.
0:36:55 > 0:36:59But, Lord, the pagans do not value priests.
0:37:00 > 0:37:03You might just as well offer a hound.
0:37:03 > 0:37:05I hear Guthrum is curious about our faith.
0:37:05 > 0:37:10I would like you to become his teacher, provide instruction.
0:37:12 > 0:37:16And if he refuses to be a student?
0:37:16 > 0:37:21Then persist, gently, with humour, as is your manner.
0:37:23 > 0:37:25Make no mistake...
0:37:27 > 0:37:30..should Guthrum ever consent to being baptised...
0:37:31 > 0:37:34..then this war is over.
0:37:34 > 0:37:35England is ours.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42This would be, truly, God's work you do.
0:37:43 > 0:37:44Forgive me, Lord...
0:37:46 > 0:37:48..but I cannot help but feel afraid.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53They are not content to simply kill a priest.
0:37:54 > 0:37:57Fear is within all of us...
0:37:59 > 0:38:00..as is strength.
0:38:03 > 0:38:06FATHER SELBIX RETCHES
0:38:31 > 0:38:34Lord, I would be more useful as a warrior - for when the truce fails.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37Oh, the truce will hold, for a time,
0:38:37 > 0:38:41and in that time, you will be my eyes and ears inside the fortress.
0:38:41 > 0:38:43- Listening for what?- For Ubba.
0:38:43 > 0:38:47If and when you hear of his return, you will escape.
0:38:47 > 0:38:48And if I'm in chains?
0:38:48 > 0:38:51Our men here shall disband, there are fields to work,
0:38:51 > 0:38:53but I will build a beacon on the hill.
0:38:53 > 0:38:54You will escape and light the fire.
0:38:54 > 0:38:58Lord, you know that escape will be near impossible.
0:38:58 > 0:39:02If Ubba returns, the hostages will be killed and the Danes will attack.
0:39:02 > 0:39:04Upon sight of this first beacon being lit,
0:39:04 > 0:39:07other fires will start and the whole of Wessex will be called to arms...
0:39:07 > 0:39:09And if I refuse to become a hostage?
0:39:09 > 0:39:11Then another man shall light the beacon.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13Why can't you accept me?
0:39:13 > 0:39:15I've been nothing but truthful to you.
0:39:15 > 0:39:17Why am I always being put to the test?
0:39:17 > 0:39:19Why do you not show your king the respect that is due?
0:39:19 > 0:39:23Because you, Uhtred of Wherever, you do not see me as your king!
0:39:23 > 0:39:25You do not see my God as your God!
0:39:25 > 0:39:28- Lord? - I am not finished with you yet!
0:39:30 > 0:39:33Guthrum is waiting to hear of Ubba's return from Ireland.
0:39:33 > 0:39:36I need to know when this occurs, sooner rather than later.
0:39:36 > 0:39:39You are the only man
0:39:39 > 0:39:43who could possibly provide this information sooner.
0:39:44 > 0:39:46Yes, it is possible that you will die,
0:39:46 > 0:39:49but it is likely that we shall all die.
0:39:52 > 0:39:54You will go to the Danes.
0:39:54 > 0:39:59How you go, as a Saxon hostage or as a Viking warrior, becomes your choice.
0:40:05 > 0:40:06I'll do as you ask...
0:40:10 > 0:40:14..but if my child is born while I'm captive, I ask that you send word.
0:40:14 > 0:40:16Of course.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18And should you die as a captive,
0:40:18 > 0:40:20rest assured your debt shall die with you.
0:40:34 > 0:40:37Will they treat us well? You are one of them.
0:40:39 > 0:40:42If I am one of them, then why am I a hostage?
0:40:43 > 0:40:46They will treat us well, for as long as the truce holds.
0:40:46 > 0:40:47If it fails?
0:40:47 > 0:40:51They will kill us all - starting with the priest.
0:40:52 > 0:40:55I have made my peace. I am ready.
0:40:55 > 0:40:58Good evening and God bless you all.
0:40:59 > 0:41:01Poor wretches.
0:41:01 > 0:41:03And us, Father - what are we?
0:41:03 > 0:41:06We are fortunate, Lord. We know God.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09Although, granted, I'm in no hurry to meet Him.
0:41:09 > 0:41:11Let us pray He feels the same.
0:41:11 > 0:41:12Amen.
0:41:33 > 0:41:35JEERING
0:41:38 > 0:41:42Is this rabble what so many are afraid of?
0:41:42 > 0:41:44They are like children!
0:41:45 > 0:41:47JEERING
0:41:49 > 0:41:51Enough. Enough!
0:41:54 > 0:41:56They are our guests, for a while.
0:41:57 > 0:41:58There's one rule, only.
0:42:00 > 0:42:04At nightfall, you will gather and sleep at the church.
0:42:05 > 0:42:06The doors will be barred.
0:42:07 > 0:42:11At daybreak, you will be then free to walk, talk,
0:42:11 > 0:42:13jump, hump, carry weapons...
0:42:14 > 0:42:16My men have orders not to kill you...
0:42:18 > 0:42:20..unless you deserve to be killed.
0:42:25 > 0:42:29I am Guthrum and one day, I shall be your King.
0:42:30 > 0:42:32Do you understand what I have said?
0:42:32 > 0:42:34You will all say, "Yes, Lord."
0:42:35 > 0:42:38ALL: Yes, Lord.
0:42:38 > 0:42:39I did not hear you.
0:42:45 > 0:42:47I understand you, Lord.
0:42:47 > 0:42:50Maybe I will make a present of you to Ubba.
0:42:50 > 0:42:52Should he ever return from Ireland.
0:42:52 > 0:42:54He may not, that's possible.
0:42:54 > 0:42:57But then his men will become my men,
0:42:57 > 0:42:59and I will honour him by killing you myself.
0:43:02 > 0:43:04With arrows perhaps.
0:43:04 > 0:43:07- Ragnar Ragnarson!- Here!
0:43:07 > 0:43:10You know this one well, keep him out of my sight.
0:43:10 > 0:43:13Take them to the church. Feed them.
0:43:20 > 0:43:22Now you are where you belong.
0:43:22 > 0:43:24Now I'm with my brother.
0:43:24 > 0:43:29I will remind you what it is like to be a Dane and make you stay.
0:43:29 > 0:43:31Brida is here.
0:43:49 > 0:43:52I dream about you, vixen...
0:43:54 > 0:43:58I'm not surprised to hear it. You've grown up.
0:43:58 > 0:44:00SHE LAUGHS
0:44:03 > 0:44:06You should know I'm with Ragnar now. He's my man.
0:44:07 > 0:44:09That's good.
0:44:11 > 0:44:12It's good.
0:44:14 > 0:44:16You should know that I'm married.
0:44:18 > 0:44:19Married?
0:44:21 > 0:44:22You HAVE grown up!
0:44:22 > 0:44:23He's married?
0:44:23 > 0:44:25Yes, he is married.
0:44:25 > 0:44:30Time is moving quicker than I thought. Tonight we get drunk.
0:44:30 > 0:44:33We must!
0:44:33 > 0:44:35I need to be inside the church.
0:44:35 > 0:44:39No, tonight we get drunk. I'll take you to the church myself,
0:44:39 > 0:44:42or we sleep where we fall.
0:44:42 > 0:44:43THEY LAUGH
0:44:43 > 0:44:46And, er... We must talk of the future.
0:44:46 > 0:44:49CROWD CHEERS
0:44:57 > 0:45:00CROWD CHANTS
0:45:04 > 0:45:06Pull, pull!
0:45:08 > 0:45:11Uhtred, pull for me. Argh! I need to piss.
0:45:11 > 0:45:14I'll return later.
0:45:14 > 0:45:16Ragnar? Ragnar!
0:45:25 > 0:45:29THEY LAUGH
0:45:30 > 0:45:33I haven't laughed so much in a long time!
0:45:33 > 0:45:35Then you haven't been living.
0:45:35 > 0:45:38Or, as Ravn would say, tomorrow we die.
0:45:38 > 0:45:41When did he ever say that?
0:45:41 > 0:45:43When you were out chopping wood.
0:45:44 > 0:45:51Oh... Well, I actually do need to piss.
0:45:51 > 0:45:54What you need to do is to stop drinking.
0:45:55 > 0:45:57Tomorrow we die!
0:46:04 > 0:46:05He's happy to see you.
0:46:05 > 0:46:07I've missed him.
0:46:10 > 0:46:12I miss you both.
0:46:20 > 0:46:21Are you his wife?
0:46:23 > 0:46:24I am with him.
0:46:26 > 0:46:28Is she beautiful?
0:46:28 > 0:46:31Mm. Her name is Mildrith... Yes, she is beautiful.
0:46:36 > 0:46:37She carries my child.
0:46:43 > 0:46:45Who decided you should marry?
0:46:47 > 0:46:48Alfred.
0:46:51 > 0:46:54I have the land I asked for in Wessex.
0:46:58 > 0:47:01You swear an oath to Alfred. You marry for Alfred.
0:47:01 > 0:47:04You have land given to you by Alfred.
0:47:04 > 0:47:05Your wife carries your child,
0:47:05 > 0:47:09and yet you are given up as a hostage, by Alfred?
0:47:09 > 0:47:11Are you a spy, Uhtred?
0:47:16 > 0:47:19The first sign of Ubba returning, I am to escape.
0:47:20 > 0:47:24But I know that when Ubba returns the hostages will be killed.
0:47:26 > 0:47:27Alfred is not fond of me.
0:47:29 > 0:47:33Refuse him. Refuse to be a hostage. Join us.
0:47:35 > 0:47:40I should ask you, Uhtred. Not that it matters, but I should ask.
0:47:40 > 0:47:44Is it a problem to you that Brida is with me now?
0:47:46 > 0:47:52- No, I'm happy about it. I swear. - All right.
0:47:53 > 0:47:55Not that she cares what you think.
0:47:55 > 0:48:00I would hump her regardless. With affection.
0:48:00 > 0:48:02- And with my permission.- I know.
0:48:05 > 0:48:07Do you know Uhtred's to be a father?
0:48:09 > 0:48:13A father? When?
0:48:13 > 0:48:15Soon, I'm told.
0:48:16 > 0:48:18You would want to see it?
0:48:19 > 0:48:23Yes, I hope to return to my wife and child.
0:48:26 > 0:48:30Ragnar, I'll be with you to avenge our father.
0:48:31 > 0:48:33Kjartan will pay.
0:48:33 > 0:48:36You should have joined me months ago, with Brida.
0:48:36 > 0:48:37I had sworn an oath.
0:48:37 > 0:48:40To a poxy Saxon king.
0:48:40 > 0:48:43Ubba wanted to see me dead, there was nowhere else to go.
0:48:43 > 0:48:46You know, I have thought about that night in the woods.
0:48:46 > 0:48:48You had the choice to be a Saxon or a Dane.
0:48:48 > 0:48:50No. I had sworn an oath.
0:48:50 > 0:48:53You should have joined me.
0:48:53 > 0:48:55I'll be with you to kill Kjartan.
0:48:59 > 0:49:04I will take you to the church, to your bed.
0:49:11 > 0:49:13MILDRITH PANTS AND GROANS
0:49:16 > 0:49:18SHE GROANS AND YELLS OUT
0:49:24 > 0:49:27SHE YELLS LOUDER
0:49:29 > 0:49:31BABY CRIES
0:49:32 > 0:49:35It's a son, Lady, a handsome boy!
0:49:41 > 0:49:44You will be Uhtred, son of Uhtred.
0:49:53 > 0:49:55Good morning, Uhtred.
0:49:56 > 0:49:58Morning, Father.
0:49:59 > 0:50:03It's raining again. One day seems like the next.
0:50:03 > 0:50:05UHTRED YAWNS
0:50:05 > 0:50:07It does.
0:50:08 > 0:50:10Still...at least we're alive to feel it.
0:50:12 > 0:50:17How are your conversations with Guthrum? Is he a Christian yet?
0:50:17 > 0:50:20I believe the time is near, I do.
0:50:20 > 0:50:24I often leave him to contemplate alone, in church.
0:50:24 > 0:50:28Guthrum likes to contemplate war, and kingdoms.
0:50:28 > 0:50:32The kingdom of heaven is his to share.
0:50:32 > 0:50:34I have told him.
0:50:35 > 0:50:38A man can change, Uhtred.
0:50:41 > 0:50:45Onward. God bless you. May you enjoy a good day.
0:50:45 > 0:50:47Thank you, Father.
0:50:48 > 0:50:55He is the King of Kings - capable of great, great things.
0:50:55 > 0:50:56Such as what?
0:50:56 > 0:50:59Such as miracles.
0:51:00 > 0:51:03Miracles? Such as what?
0:51:03 > 0:51:08Such as you, Lord.
0:51:09 > 0:51:11You are a miracle.
0:51:13 > 0:51:16He has made you strong, yet merciful.
0:51:17 > 0:51:22He has made you proud, yet humble.
0:51:24 > 0:51:26He has made you eager to learn.
0:51:28 > 0:51:30He has given you free will,
0:51:30 > 0:51:33hoping that you will find the courage to choose Him
0:51:33 > 0:51:38above all else. And I believe...
0:51:38 > 0:51:41..I truly believe, He will be rewarded.
0:51:41 > 0:51:43GATE OPENS
0:51:48 > 0:51:49I have a message for Guthrum.
0:51:49 > 0:51:51He's in the church.
0:52:06 > 0:52:08Lord, may I speak?
0:52:08 > 0:52:10Freely.
0:52:10 > 0:52:12Ubba and his army have returned from Ireland.
0:52:12 > 0:52:15They are coming ashore north of here, at the Severn.
0:52:15 > 0:52:18And my fleet is where?
0:52:18 > 0:52:21They left Lundene several days ago and are nearly here, Lord.
0:52:21 > 0:52:24Every last ship will be here, every man will be with you.
0:52:24 > 0:52:26That is good news.
0:52:31 > 0:52:33I dispatch you to your heaven.
0:52:33 > 0:52:35FATHER SELBIX CHOKES
0:52:37 > 0:52:39No need to thank me.
0:52:55 > 0:52:57Father...
0:52:57 > 0:53:00Ubba has returned, did they say?
0:53:02 > 0:53:04Y... Yes.
0:53:07 > 0:53:11Men, the peace is over, prepare for battle.
0:53:11 > 0:53:14CHEERING
0:53:21 > 0:53:23The Saxon hostages, kill them all.
0:53:26 > 0:53:28Catch him!
0:53:28 > 0:53:31SHOUTING
0:53:50 > 0:53:52Argh!
0:53:53 > 0:53:57Leave him! I say leave him!
0:53:58 > 0:54:04Ragnar, please, step aside.
0:54:04 > 0:54:07You know all the hostages have to die.
0:54:07 > 0:54:11Then kill him. You are welcome to kill him.
0:54:11 > 0:54:13But you have to kill me first.
0:54:13 > 0:54:16I could happily manage without this.
0:54:16 > 0:54:19He's a Saxon, he's a traitor,
0:54:19 > 0:54:21he's an enemy.
0:54:21 > 0:54:23But to get to him you have to kill me.
0:54:25 > 0:54:28My men, they will not follow you.
0:54:40 > 0:54:42I will give you one last charity.
0:54:43 > 0:54:46Release him, without a horse.
0:54:56 > 0:54:58Are you all right?
0:54:59 > 0:55:01I have no words.
0:55:01 > 0:55:04Listen, go. Go and see your child. Go.
0:55:08 > 0:55:10I'll be with you.
0:55:13 > 0:55:15Both of you.