Robert the Bruce (2019) - full transcript
The story of the nobleman-turned-outlaw hero who was crowned king of Scots in the 14th century.
After the
death of William Wallace,
Robert the Bruce sought,
once and for all,
to claim the throne of Scotland.
The deal had been
made, but Bruce lands
would be signed over
to the Comyn clan,
and in return, John
Comyn would relinquish
his claim to the throne.
It was cold that day.
A bitter chilling wind blew,
dragging snow against the hills
and the frozen walls
of Gray Friar's Church.
They agreed to meet on holy
ground and to parlay unarmed.
But since William Wallace
had failed to win Scotland
her freedom, the lands
had been in chaos,
and there was little
trust between the clans.
Robert, good to see you.
We have much to do if we are
to join our lands together.
We must change the legacy left
behind by William Wallace.
The years have not suffered
the sentiment he aroused.
And if we are to combine
our power under England,
we cannot have
thousands of our people
and several powerful clans
still clamoring for revolution.
What is that?
The Bruce knew.
Even as they had
struck their bargain,
John Comyn had conspired to
have him arrested for treason
and killed.
Well, we can dispense
with the frivolous chatter,
for you came to me
and pledged to turn
over your lands in exchange
for my support of you as king.
Are you not betraying
England then?
And did you intend to
let me keep those lands
once you were crowned king?
Huh?
Come, Robert.
Do not play the saint, not you.
You laid a trap for
Edward, which he escaped.
I laid a trap for you,
which you escaped.
Tomorrow you lay a trap
to me, which I escape.
And so it goes until
we are both old men,
like our fathers before us.
And still, this look
of war in your eyes.
You really must learn to
control your temper, Robert.
It'll be your death.
The
commons men laid in wait,
but the Bruce's men
stood against them,
led by the great
warrior James Douglas.
But Ma.
What, Scot?
Robert the Bruce slit
John Comyn's throat
in church so he could steal
the crown for himself.
Just tell him the story, Scot.
But that's not what happened.
That was years ago.
How could you know
what happened?
Uncle Brandubh told me.
Ay, your uncle tells it
his way, I tell it mine.
But it's not the truth.
Shh.
I know how it happened.
Would you like me to go on?
Would you rather
go to sleep now?
Oh, Robert.
Robert, Robert.
I have an eye on you.
You want the one
thing you cannot have,
to be William Wallace, to be
loved as he was, to be brave
like him, be free like him.
What a wretched wish
that is for you to have.
How it must coil in your gut.
Is that what you want now, to
throw yourself upon my sword
and die today, to
be, for a moment,
a hollow, empty echo of the
man William Wallace was?
Proceed, if you must.
No?
You, uh, don't have
one of these, do you?
And that is why Robert the
Bruce failed in his bids
to become king of Scotland.
Come on.
A great fight
ensued, both men champions,
both battle-hardened.
They fought for the crown,
the supremacy of their clans,
and for the future of Scotland.
For the Bruce will
fight for freedom,
but the Comyn was a puppet
of the English crown.
When the church
doors burst open,
with the fire of behind
the figure that emerged,
no one knew at first who it was.
Was it the Bruce or the
Comyn, the Comyn or the Bruce?
They're dreaming now.
Do you think we'll
ever fight again?
It's been years since
the Bruce was crowned.
Six battles loss.
Uncle Brandubh says he's
got no army to speak of.
Calls him the pretender king.
I don't know, Carney, but I
know I'd never call him that.
Now help me with the bucket.
In just six years, we ruled
this country, didn't we, you
and I, without a royal ambition.
Three days, maybe four,
we'll be safe in [inaudible]..
Will we ever go home?
You miss your Ma?
I miss my Ma, too.
Your Ma and Pa lived in
a bigass castle, though,
didn't they?
The castle, ay.
Ay.
It's where I was born.
It's home.
All around at the
fields and forests,
where I played as a wee lad.
Can we go there?
The English took
it from him, lad.
Now some fat pig has his ass
plopped in his fancy chair
and his fancy table.
One day, ay.
Oh, aye.
One day we'll
be sat around that table,
aye, eating boar,
drinking claret.
That man there, he's
going to free Scotland.
I'm going to take
back my castle.
I'm going to stick that English
pig on the end of my sword
and I'm going to fling
him over my castle wall.
And you'll go home, too, a wee
bit older, more man than boy.
You'll see your Ma again.
After winter, you'll see.
We'll not go to Norway.
Leave me.
Go home to your families.
We're done.
And if anyone asks you, whatever
happened to Robert the Bruce,
you tell them you know not.
You tell them you fought with
the Comyn and the English
all along.
Go home.
Go.
Stop this talk now.
You're the king.
God chooses kings,
James, not men.
We're done fighting, lad.
What were we fighting for?
Go home, he says.
Tell them we were fighting
for Comyn all along.
I've heard Comyn has 50
pieces for him, gold.
Time to be free from James.
It's regicide.
It's a sin.
We don't have to
kill him, only capture.
There's a reward on your head.
You're not safe on your own.
I'll not stop fighting
for you, for Scotland.
Look at those faces, James.
Look at them.
They're done.
Have no fight left in them.
We're done here.
On your own, lads.
But first do the work, Hamish.
Try to set the hook too
soon, she'll leap right off.
If you let her nibble a bit
and set the hook herself,
she won't get away.
Take that.
Good, lad.
Where are you three headed then?
The homes to the
south, I reckon?
Aye, so his his.
He's after the
reward, same as us.
Ah, the reward,
50 gold pieces.
Is that your prize?
There's three of us, James.
You know it wouldn't matter
if there were 10, would it?
You I had for a decent man.
Your music has been very dear to
me these past few months, you.
I've never liked you anyway,
but I fought next to you
and I'd have died for
you as a countryman.
It's over, James.
The Bruce failed.
Robert the Bruce never
lost those battles,
you did, and the men like you.
You failed them,
and now you chase
after them, after some reward.
Either we do it or
someone else will.
Judas, traitors all.
Now.
Hamish.
What are you doing?
Stay out of it.
James.
No.
James.
You didn't need
to kill Hamish.
He was armed.
Aye, with an ax, he
could barely swing.
And it was going in his back.
He's a child.
Leave him.
He's still breathing.
What are you doing?
He knows where we're going.
James Douglas is
not dying like this.
He knows where we're going.
Say a prayer.
Say a prayer.
I can make you
free now, can't I?
Your day be filled with
blessings, like the sun
that lights the sky.
You'll always have the courage
to spread their wings and fly.
Don't you thank me?
Ma.
Don't.
Ma.
Don't make me.
Ma.
En garde.
En garde.
I got you now.
Scot.
Scot.
Here, help me gather these.
En garde.
I am helping you.
Thank you, good sir.
Did we lose then?
We won.
Good.
Now help me fill this basket.
Of course, my lady.
Who do you think you are?
I'm the king.
Is that enough?
We're not done.
That's so pretty.
Look at that.
Beautiful.
Like you.
For your father.
Kneel with me, if you'd like.
Would you like to say something?
Bless you.
He should've never left us.
[inaudible] for English.
Find the king and kill him.
Scot.
I do.
Do you think he hears us, Ma?
Aye.
Back home?
Aye.
Horse went that way.
He's going that way.
Aye.
How about the horses?
What, you think yours
can go where his can't?
Michael's got a magic horse.
All right, he's
gone up this way.
Left to pieces, lads.
Left to pieces.
Scot, go wash your hands.
But my hands are filthy.
[inaudible]
That's your favorite.
One more scoop?
Aye, finish that first.
It's my birthday.
One more scoop.
Scot.
How is your day, Scot?
Good so far.
What did you get me?
A present, as always.
Did you feed the
goats, [inaudible]??
Aye.
All right.
We thank you for Scot,
for today we celebrate
the beginning of his 11th year.
He's going to be a good lad.
Although sometimes he might be
a little wild, he trusts in You.
He's a good boy, a good son.
I pray for Scotland
and for our king,
that you guide him
and give him strength.
We pray that you protect
us during the winter ahead,
that we may have food and
that we may stay safe.
Amen.
Amen.
Amen.
[inaudible]
Tell the story, Ma.
No more.
It's my birthday.
Ma, start at the church.
She means the violent bit.
All right.
Now the Bruce had
disarmed John Comyn.
When word spread
what had happened,
Robert the Bruce
was excommunicated
from the holy church and
brandished a villain,
and the priests of
Scotland crowned him king.
His family was taken from
him, his wife Elizabeth,
his wee princess Monterey.
He took up the mantle William
Wallace had carried to fight
for Scotland's freedom.
[inaudible] the vast English
army and the clans that
refused to support the cause.
For many years, he fought.
For many years, he
lost again and again.
He fought until the rivers
flowed red with Scottish blood,
until he was hunted
like an animal,
by English and Scotland alike.
Hit him, men.
[inaudible] ahead.
Over Robert the Bruce.
Shall we see the son of
[inaudible] gone to pieces?
But one day soon,
he'll raise another army
and he'll fight again.
Maybe one of you
will fight with him.
Not me.
He'll win and
we'll all be free.
Bless him, and the
first look at near death.
Did you know?
Aye, I did.
I really did.
If you do see a strange
man in the forest, tell me.
I am.
[inaudible]
down by the lock.
Go and see you [inaudible].
We're soldiers.
We need food.
On [inaudible], if you have any.
Who do you fight for, Robert
the Bruce or John Comyn?
My father fought with Robert
the Bruce at [inaudible]..
Is that so?
Aye.
He was very brave.
Robert the Bruce
even said so himself.
Daddy?
Aye.
He told us stories.
Get back.
Go on.
Where is he now, still
fight with the Bruce?
He died.
We're with the Comyn
clan, lad, as should you be.
Your lords have pledged
themselves to him.
My father fought with
William Wallace, too.
Oh, aye?
Aye.
Scotland died with
Wallace, if you ask me.
We offer our
gratitude for your food.
We'll be leaving.
Unless you'd like us to stay.
Will?
Widow could use
a helping hand.
I said we'll be going.
[inaudible] Can you
use a helping hand?
I said we'll be going.
Yes, we're leaving.
Ma.
You best leave us now.
You're going to
be a hero, are you?
He won't have to.
I'll show you what
happens [inaudible]..
Out, all right?
Scots attack
Scots to what end?
Aye.
One day we'll all be free.
One day we'll all be dead.
Michael's down.
All right, I'm coming.
Hey.
Hey.
I'm hurt.
Who are you?
I'm a soldier.
I need help.
And who are you a soldier for?
Can't you see I'm hurt?
I'm the Sheriff.
Who are you for?
We were following
Robert the Bruce.
We stand by the river.
And he?
They're dead.
He's killed him.
But he's hurt bad,
and I'm sure you
know there's 50 pieces for him.
I'll take you to him
and we'll share it, aye?
Aye.
Thomas, give him your horse.
Hey, show me.
If you tell the
truth, we'll help you.
Aye.
Donald, Finley, go with me.
Now lead the way.
Hey, it's him.
It's just under here.
You see.
This is Bruce's sword.
He couldn't have gone far.
He's winded.
What do you say?
Will you help?
Aye.
You will not feel
the pain for long.
I'm sorry, lad.
Let's go.
Anyone who hears of
this will seek the reward.
But if it's him, we'll have it
for ourselves, 50 gold pieces.
Won't matter, the size of
your sword then, Finley.
You'll be rich.
The sword could be his.
It's old enough.
Whether we find him
or no, this remains
a secret among ourselves.
We tell no one,
neither man nor woman.
Hey, if anyone learns of
this, I'll know it's you.
Know where you come.
Same as [inaudible],,
you understand?
Aye.
You'd fight him to
the death, our king.
He's no king of mine.
Think of the men,
fathers, sons, brothers,
stolen from us for his vanity.
We'll find him
dead, most likely.
But if not, I crave a
chance to fight him.
Freedom, I'll show
him the meaning of it.
Sit down, you stupid boy.
Robert, Robert the
Bruce, come out and see me.
Can you hear me?
Robert.
Robert.
Robert the Bruce,
can you hear me?
Robert, can you hear me?
Robert the Bruce,
can you hear me?
You're among friends.
We'll take care of your
wounds, give you food.
Do you think he's
in the mountains?
If he is, we'll need to
leave our horses here.
No, I think that
he'll go downhill.
Robert.
Robert the Bruce,
can you hear me?
Robert.
Robert the Bruce.
You're among friends.
Ah, children.
Although Carney,
you're no longer a boy.
Iver, get the horse tied up.
Hi, there.
Oh, you're a sight
for sore eyes.
Uncle.
Oh, Scott, you wee scoundrel.
Come here, nephew.
I brought you something
for your birthday.
Did you?
There you go.
Someone has to give Iver some
competition at the games.
You've not got a chance.
I'll in it next year.
Oh, you'll have
to practice, boy.
I know.
And guess what?
What?
Soldiers were here earlier.
Carney scared them off.
How do you know that?
Well, Ma gave some food,
but one of them got mean.
Did they?
Aye.
Carney, come.
Iver, maybe you can show my
men how to should an arrow.
Both of you, run along.
Brandubh.
You [inaudible]
Yorgi on Sunday.
Every day.
My brother was a lucky
man till death claimed him.
Carney.
Hello, bonnie darling.
Carney, come.
This sword is chipped,
see, here and here.
It's dented here.
Needs repairing.
Whose is it?
It belongs to a noble.
Could bring it to old
Sean in the village,
but I know you've been
learning from him.
Get better praise for your
work now than he gets for his.
So finish it over the winter
and show him your skill,
maybe even prove yourself
to his daughter, huh?
We'll need gold for the handle.
You'll have that.
The work must be perfect.
Hey, take it and go.
Would you like
something to drink?
So there were soldiers here?
Aye.
One of them was trouble?
Oh, it was nothing.
We were safe.
For how long?
Don't you ever think about
living in the village?
We're happy here.
[inaudible] I
want to help you.
You do help.
My house is safe,
large, warm, and lonely.
I say [inaudible].
When you were my
sister-in-law, you used to love
to listen to those songs.
They're dead, you
know, those men.
I killed them.
You'd never need to
fear for strangers
if you lived in the village.
[inaudible]
Well, this will
be my last time
up here before the snow melts.
When I return, I'll
be taking Carney.
You have no right.
He's of age and has
a duty to the clan.
It's only a kindness to you
that I don't take him now.
Besides, how much
longer will he be
able to stay here when
old Sean's daughter's
waiting for him in the village.
Come with him.
Find the rest of
your [inaudible]..
I'll take care of
the lot of you.
[inaudible],, but
you will come to me.
Carney.
I'm here for your father.
Craftsmanship,
hand [inaudible]
master that is smooth, strong.
Listen, boy.
You're still my apprentice,
turn again and again and again
and again and again.
Brandubh said
you'll seal the gold.
Not here.
Far from here, France maybe.
Boom biddy boom biddy
boom goes the hammer.
Tappity tappity tappity tap.
Gold?
Aye.
How much did he
give you for it?
Tell Briana to fetch me ale.
Let me go, Briana.
No.
You'll have to fight
me for passage.
All right.
Briana.
See you after the winter.
I don't believe him.
Brandubh.
It's the finest
sword I've ever seen.
Brandubh is not a
man to be trifled with.
Whose is it?
Scot says he saw a
man in the forest.
Scot is always the
boy who cries wolf.
You know that.
Now get to bed before
you wake the children.
I'm not a child.
You always had a
grown way about you.
I love you like a son.
I must do what I
believe is right.
Aye.
Brandubh's a dog.
When my son was born,
you told me the dream.
You'd seen him, that you'd
seen him on the battlefield.
You told me he was
with Robert the Bruce.
I remember.
The soldiers were cheering
because they'd won their fight.
But you said more.
You said more.
What you saw, will
it come to pass?
Will my Scot die?
It was just a dream.
There was a premonition.
He was in his 11th year.
You cannot stop your
boy from becoming a man.
Nothing's certain of the
future, not even the present.
I'm scared.
You have to let go.
No.
You have to let go.
Hey, I understand.
I understand.
The spider's web must be spun.
Lost souls journey must be won.
The king's delight
must be undone.
The song of justice
must be sung.
Who do you side with,
the Bruce or the Comyn?
The Comyn.
Comyn.
Let go.
Let go.
Shh.
Shh.
Shh.
Stop.
Stop.
Shh.
Let Iver kill him.
Shh.
I can do it.
Carney.
I hit him.
Nice shot.
I could've done it.
Move his legs.
That was a perfect shot.
Carney.
Iver.
Carney.
Is he awake?
Who is he?
Can you tell?
It's Robert the Bruce,
I already told you.
I think he's dead.
Check his chest.
He's alive.
Help me move him.
Quick, help me
find the [inaudible]..
You'll be rich.
Children, that man in
there, and we know who he is.
Our lives are in great
danger with him in the croft.
Uncle Brandubh would kill him.
[inaudible]
He's our king.
But Ma.
Scot, quiet.
We'd be rich.
His life is in our hands.
Now, it's God's
will he came here.
If we help him, we'll
have to leave, won't we?
Brandubh will learn of it.
Thinking of Briana.
You're right.
He's our king.
We have a duty to him.
That's his sword.
Brandubh lied to me.
He'll kill him,
won't he, and us.
Brandubh lost men he
loved to the Bruce's horse.
Yorgi, his friends.
He'll always bear a grudge.
Not a word.
Come inside.
Children, I need your help.
There's something in there.
Was that from a sword?
Maybe.
Help me get him out of sight.
Get a cloth.
Put it down here, Scot.
Put one in the water.
Down there.
You need to watch.
He'll bleed.
I'm not afraid of blood, Ma.
All right.
Clean it.
See to him, Iver.
Ma.
He kicked me in the chest.
Be quiet, Scot.
Get me a cloth.
Ma, he hurt me.
That was shock is all.
[inaudible] care.
His leg.
Aye.
Carney, the knife.
All right, hold him down.
Iver, hold him.
Ready?
Hold him down.
Hold him.
Carney, here.
Tie it.
Tie it tight.
Good.
Iver, Carney, back to your work.
Scot, come here.
Are you hurt?
Where?
My dad
told me, son, none are
safe once the fight has begun.
They've taken everything,
our brothers, fathers, sons.
You stole my heart.
They've taken our weapons.
They take, they take, they take
until they've had their fill.
'Cause when there's
nothing left to love,
then it's time to kill.
She's a witch.
Shh.
Watch out for her.
Shh.
You're not
welcome here, witch.
You're not still pining
over that Morag, are you?
Oh, love that
pains will always pain.
Her heart belongs
forever to your brother.
You best shut your mouth.
I will not.
Shall I buy you a
wee dram, [inaudible]??
I see what I see.
A man like you, handsome as
you are, important as you are,
you're no wild thistle.
But you'll be rich after
the winter, won't you?
What are you doing?
I didn't say nothing.
You'll tell everyone
you're just running
your mouth about the Bruce.
It's a laugh is all.
Anyone [inaudible]
when the snow melts,
I'll slit your bloody throat.
The English is gone.
You're the king now.
We won?
The spider's web must be spun.
The king's delight
must be undone.
Lost soul's journey must be won.
The song of justice
must be sung.
Who are you?
The
spider's web must be spun.
Lost soul's journey must be won.
The king's delight
must be undone.
The song of justice
must be sung.
It's too far away.
He's got 100 excuses.
When someone comes to kill
the king, we'll have to fight.
You won't be able to
fight him hand-to-hand.
Sure I will.
You're not strong enough.
First sign of anything, you
get your bow and your quiver
and you run to that tree.
Iver, you climb
your perch there.
Aye.
As soon as fighting starts,
you do what you can, all right?
I don't want to fight them.
Aye.
I know.
We all have to protect your Ma.
I have to protect you, too.
If we have to fight,
Iver, come on.
I give the orders or
else someone might die.
It might be him or Iver or me
or you, but it could be your Ma.
We're family, aye?
Aye.
Now take your bow, try again.
Be patient this time.
Ready?
Aye.
That was closer.
You'll get even closer.
Bruce, are they coming?
Bruce?
He'll lose this fight.
We'll see about that.
Now you're going to die.
Ma.
Ma.
Ma.
Your fever's broken.
I know you.
No.
No, you don't.
I saw you.
Leave me alone.
You were frozen
when Scot found you.
Rest now.
Run along.
May I?
Your wounds are healing.
It was all a dream.
The fever?
Freedom.
Victory.
Nothing.
Robert.
Robert the Bruce.
This is my elder
nephew, Carney.
This is my younger niece, Iver.
And there's my boy, Scot.
Please, take a seat.
Carney was barely a year when
the Wallace began to fight.
Our clan was going
to England, and it
was decreed that anyone who
joined him would be an outlaw.
So my brother Toag
decided to join him.
I pleaded with him not to.
He seemed so proud when
he went off to fight.
Carney cried.
He cried.
He cried for his father.
Your father went to
fight with King Robert.
He cried, too.
No, he didn't.
Yeah, he did.
My other brother, Boak, he was
older than me by six years.
He was an archer, same as Iver.
Aye, so you're an archer?
So am I.
She's good.
The men in the village
have trouble keeping up
with her [inaudible].
Toag never knew he was a father.
His mother died
when she was born
and, just days later, Boak
had fallen at [inaudible]..
I had the two wee children.
Ma, tell about the poem.
Toag was a poet.
After [inaudible] died,
Toag composed a song.
There's blood...
In the locks.
There is blood in the house, on
the rocks and mountain peaks.
And when we look up to
our Maker, the sky burns,
brushed with a scarlet ink
of those hearts we loved.
Do not lose hope,
the bleeding sky
will not succumb
to the shadow that
darkens this land,
for [inaudible]
the sun rising above the dirty
house, as the dawn, a new day.
That's beautiful.
Your father wrote that?
Aye.
Now mine.
Tell him about him.
He was a good man,
and good with the sword.
And word came that
you've been [inaudible]
and were fighting
for our freedom.
Our clan pledged themself to
you and raised up an army.
My Yorgi, he was
the younger son.
His older brother, Brandubh,
he should have gone.
But he was a Sheriff
so he stayed behind
and my Yorgi went in his place.
Brandubh is still the Sheriff.
Yorgi was with you at
[inaudible],, but he was hurt.
They cut off his leg
before the journey home.
He was near gone
when he arrived.
Our clan lost faith and placed
themselves to the Comyn.
My Yorgi still believed in you.
He told us that no
matter what the odds,
no matter how difficult the
fight, you wouldn't give up.
He would have fought the
clan to join you again.
But his wounds festered.
He died right there,
as you are now.
So you think
you can make them?
Can I make them he asks?
Of course
I can make them.
Devil spikes though they
are, but I make them.
My men will be bringing
you their weapons
for sharpening as well, all to
be done before the snows melt.
So pretty.
Away they go, steel
shining in the sunlight,
singing songs, and smiling.
Away they go I'll
give them spikes.
Away they go, never
to be seen again.
Thank you, Briana.
Aye.
Before the snow
melts, you say?
Aye.
Children, head down to
the river and set the traps.
Aye, Ma.
Not now, I'm cleaning the barn.
Do as I say.
Wait there.
You're not supposed
to be hunting.
Come help me set this.
Wait, Carney.
Aim, don't just shoot.
With your eyes, Scot.
Look at him with your eyes.
I know how to do it.
But [inaudible] will follow.
It's your fault for talking.
I just told you.
I can do it myself.
Iver, Scot, quit quarreling
and help me set the traps.
You should have aimed.
I did aim.
Shut it, both of you.
I don't see why we
have to set traps anyway.
We have all that
venison stored up.
Your Ma said so.
It's for the Bruce.
She wants more meat.
Should have left
him where he was.
He's a man.
Couldn't have just let him die.
My dad died because of him,
and so did yours and yours.
Why can't we tell Uncle
Brandubh about him?
We made a promise, Scot.
What if he lives
and raises an army?
What if our lord
side with him again?
He'll go and fight.
What then?
Just set the traps.
Amen.
When will you fight again?
Scot.
I want to know.
Do you have a plan?
I don't have an army here.
They're your army.
What about you?
I reckon they'll
kill you in your sleep.
Take the [inaudible].
Scot.
My lord.
Have you ever killed before?
Aye
What?
Chickens.
Uh-huh.
Squirrel, elk, pigs.
You ever killed a man?
You're a good lad.
He's strong, full of life.
But you know what it takes
to be a good soldier?
Lots of men.
No.
To be a good soldier, first
you have to be a good brother,
a good friend, and a good son.
I am a good son, aren't I, Ma?
Aye, Scot.
When you're Carney's age,
you'll be ready to fight.
Until then, you practice being
a good boy, then a good man.
And that's what being a good
soldier is, knowing you're
fighting the good fight.
What's the good fight?
When you're old enough
to know the answer to that,
you'll be ready.
Now in the meantime, why
don't you take this knife
and peel some potatoes
for your mother?
Put the knife down, Scot.
He's not my dad.
He doesn't tell me what
to do in my own house.
Scot.
Let go.
Scot.
I'm sorry your father
isn't here for you.
I am sorry he died in my war.
I'm sorry he isn't
here to see you
grow into a fine, young man.
He'd be ever so proud of you.
But if it's revenge you want,
a life for a life, take mine.
[inaudible]
Scot, come and practice.
All right, let's start
with positioning.
Nice to see you
walking around.
Aye.
If our men had women
like you, I think we'd
have won our battle by now.
And you've raised
fine, young children.
I've done my best.
Here, let me look at your wound.
Right.
How did it happen?
Three soldiers came after me.
They wanted the reward.
You were alone?
Aye.
But I thought the king
would have some men with him.
I sent them away.
Why would you do that?
No, that doesn't concern me.
I truly believed that God
had chosen me to be king,
and then we lost.
God didn't choose me, I did.
And everything I did to honor
him and everything I've done
defiled Him instead.
I had a dream that I was king.
We were free.
I thought it was real.
Maybe it was a premonition.
Your son Scot was
in that dream with me.
Open your cloak.
Aye.
I should leave here soon.
You'll leave when you're well.
Healing me is
treason in these lands.
You've given enough.
[inaudible] my
choice to heal you.
We'll defend you
the best we can.
Aye, you're my king.
I know I'm your servant,
but until you're well,
I'm your nurse.
You're my patient.
You'll do as I say.
Aye.
Can we visit you when
you're back in your castle?
I will return to my castle.
Is it nice?
I [inaudible] a castle.
[inaudible]
Aye.
[inaudible] No
one owns anything.
This land was here for any of
us and it'll be here long after.
It doesn't belong
to anyone really.
Perhaps we belong to it.
Perhaps.
I'd like to live in a castle.
I only want to say
it's mine, though.
King Robert, is
this your sword?
Where did you find that?
My uncle gave it to me to fix.
I return it to you.
You're a blacksmith?
I'm learning.
It's a fine one.
Keep it.
It's yours.
Let's give it
back to your uncle.
It's not right.
It belongs to you, the king.
It would be better to keep
the peace with your uncle
rather than risk
your neck with me.
You just [inaudible]
for Scotland, for us.
I'd do the same for you.
You're a brave lad.
Are you all right?
You fear for Scot.
Listen, I'll not take your son.
There'll be no more wars.
I'll not fight again.
Oh, you will.
If I could, Morag, I
would just disappear here
with you and the children, aye?
Disappear, like a
farmer, [inaudible]..
No.
Aye.
No.
No.
You did those for wives.
You did those for mothers.
We need to know our
men died for something.
Keep your children.
Keep them.
My son has a destiny no
mother's tears can change.
Our faith has tired tears.
You're coming with me.
Do you know where it is?
Watch it.
What's here?
What is it?
Look inside.
Is this the crown?
I now pronounce you queen
of the forests and the glens
and the fairies,
queen baliwigger.
Now you're dead.
Does that mean I'm king?
Ooh.
Very good.
Scot's turn.
It's his fault. [inaudible]
when you're picking out, Ma.
Ready?
Aye.
Aye.
Steady.
[inaudible]
And what did I tell you?
Spread your feet a bit more.
Your elbow.
[inaudible]
Ma, look.
I hit the target.
Good for you, Scot.
I found the Bruce.
He's at your brother's croft.
Sharp enough for you?
Aye.
And if the man we seek is alive,
I'll cleave his head in two.
I bet you will.
All boys will kill their enemies
and all their enemies are boys.
What man is that?
You should ask your boyfriend.
His family gave him meat.
On your way, lad.
But say nothing, Briana.
On your way, I said, and take
[inaudible] scrapey with you.
Fool.
Fool.
Sharpest sword in the
world wasted on the dullest
mind in the valley.
Dad, that sword Carney
brought you, the big one...
Shh, shh, shh.
Is he in trouble?
Shh.
Sleep, child.
House, a loaf of bread,
some mail, and the days
drift by and by like
clouds in the sky.
This is what a
man's hands must do.
We think of the
blade, not the blood.
No.
No.
Briana.
Briana.
Briana.
It's true.
You helped him.
They're on the way,
Brandubh and his men.
My dad has been making arms.
When will they come?
In the morning, I'm sure.
Carney, if you run,
I'm coming with you.
Aye.
Your hands are like ice.
Get her some soup.
That's them.
Aye.
Ma.
Ma, they're coming.
Quick, get inside.
You've changed me.
You've changed the king.
I'll be at the
land we'll live in.
Now if it comes to a fight, some
of us might not see the sunset,
but that is the
true nature of war.
But know this, I see now in
your eyes what Scotland can be.
You felt her fear and her age.
You've heard the
roar of her soul.
You've wept her tears
and you've shed her blood
and you have touched the
cold, cruel skin of her death.
We have known Scotland, clutched
in the grip of a mighty hand.
And now we'll set her free.
Is that not worth fighting for?
Aye.
Aye.
Aye.
Aye.
Aye.
Oh, good Brandubh,
look what I can do.
I've been practicing at the bow.
Better keep practicing.
Aye.
The winter was good to you.
Children killed a buck.
Have more than we
could eat all winter.
It's good to see you.
Is it?
Aye.
Carney, what you've got there?
Looks like new.
Your work is excellent.
I'd like to give it to
you and not old Sean.
Balanced just right.
Heavy but strong.
I'm sure [inaudible] will
be glad to have it back.
Payment for your work.
It's a fine property.
Never thought of Yorgi as
a farmer when we were boys,
but he was happy here with you.
Aye.
Pity, all this, him gone.
I told you when I
return, I'd be bringing
Carney back to the village.
He's of age.
He is.
Come with him.
I've thought of it.
It was a cold winter.
Aye, aye it was.
I have work to do
here before we leave.
A month, maybe two.
Then I'll join you.
You'll be my wife?
Aye.
And share my bed?
I've been married before.
I know [inaudible] do.
[inaudible]
Let's go inside.
Let me finish what I
have to do here first,
then you can have
me when you want.
Take me inside.
Now.
Patience.
[inaudible] the winter.
What would I say
about the children?
[inaudible] You've not
[inaudible] a man before winter
here in my brother's house.
Give in to me and I'll
take you as my wife.
[inaudible] then
I'll have no choice.
Think of the children,
Carney, Iver,
your Scot, and you last of all.
You, Morag, to be the
[inaudible] of [inaudible]..
He's a king.
Search high and low.
We'll find him here.
Where is he?
Show him to me.
Show him to me.
[inaudible] I am Robert
the Bruce, your king.
This family is
under my protection.
Lay down your swords.
This is your king?
And what's a king made of?
Of flesh and blood.
Go home or join us.
You will not be harmed.
No harm shall come to me.
[inaudible]
He's our king.
Carney.
Iver, I'm [inaudible].
Iver.
Iver.
Iver.
Iver.
[inaudible]
Stay there.
You ride on ahead, all right?
What's your name?
Where are you from?
Are you with
England or the Bruce?
Are you with England
or the Bruce?
And who might you be,
riding through my forest?
Robert?
Aye.
Is that Robert?
Come, this family
saved my life.
They kept me alive
through the winter months.
Come on.
Come on, lads.
They're my family now, my
blood, through the spirit
that unites us all.
My name is Angus
of the clan McDonald.
You've done a great service
to your king and to Scotland.
I welcome you to our
alliance, and I pledge to you
all that you will be
cared for by our clan
and you'll make
a good home here.
James.
James Douglas, come look who
I found hiding in the forest.
Angus, what did you find?
I searched far and wide for you.
It's good to see you, James.
You told your men go home.
They didn't go.
You told them to put
their swords down,
but they kept them sharp.
Been waiting for you
all across the country.
Tell me that you'll lead us.
Tell me that we
will fight again.
Through this winter, you
and I, all of Scotland,
have been waiting, hoping,
believing that our fight
for freedom would start again.
This is the day that
we have been waiting
for, for our king lives.
Send out riders far and wide.
Tell them it is
time to raise again.
Tell them it is
time we fight again.
Tell them it is time
to make ourselves free.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
And so
that's our story, Scot.
Your story, your blood
set us free [inaudible]..
I see you everywhere.
You in the morning mist, you
and all the wee beasties,
you in every [inaudible]
running free,
you in the evening
laughter, you in my dreams.
death of William Wallace,
Robert the Bruce sought,
once and for all,
to claim the throne of Scotland.
The deal had been
made, but Bruce lands
would be signed over
to the Comyn clan,
and in return, John
Comyn would relinquish
his claim to the throne.
It was cold that day.
A bitter chilling wind blew,
dragging snow against the hills
and the frozen walls
of Gray Friar's Church.
They agreed to meet on holy
ground and to parlay unarmed.
But since William Wallace
had failed to win Scotland
her freedom, the lands
had been in chaos,
and there was little
trust between the clans.
Robert, good to see you.
We have much to do if we are
to join our lands together.
We must change the legacy left
behind by William Wallace.
The years have not suffered
the sentiment he aroused.
And if we are to combine
our power under England,
we cannot have
thousands of our people
and several powerful clans
still clamoring for revolution.
What is that?
The Bruce knew.
Even as they had
struck their bargain,
John Comyn had conspired to
have him arrested for treason
and killed.
Well, we can dispense
with the frivolous chatter,
for you came to me
and pledged to turn
over your lands in exchange
for my support of you as king.
Are you not betraying
England then?
And did you intend to
let me keep those lands
once you were crowned king?
Huh?
Come, Robert.
Do not play the saint, not you.
You laid a trap for
Edward, which he escaped.
I laid a trap for you,
which you escaped.
Tomorrow you lay a trap
to me, which I escape.
And so it goes until
we are both old men,
like our fathers before us.
And still, this look
of war in your eyes.
You really must learn to
control your temper, Robert.
It'll be your death.
The
commons men laid in wait,
but the Bruce's men
stood against them,
led by the great
warrior James Douglas.
But Ma.
What, Scot?
Robert the Bruce slit
John Comyn's throat
in church so he could steal
the crown for himself.
Just tell him the story, Scot.
But that's not what happened.
That was years ago.
How could you know
what happened?
Uncle Brandubh told me.
Ay, your uncle tells it
his way, I tell it mine.
But it's not the truth.
Shh.
I know how it happened.
Would you like me to go on?
Would you rather
go to sleep now?
Oh, Robert.
Robert, Robert.
I have an eye on you.
You want the one
thing you cannot have,
to be William Wallace, to be
loved as he was, to be brave
like him, be free like him.
What a wretched wish
that is for you to have.
How it must coil in your gut.
Is that what you want now, to
throw yourself upon my sword
and die today, to
be, for a moment,
a hollow, empty echo of the
man William Wallace was?
Proceed, if you must.
No?
You, uh, don't have
one of these, do you?
And that is why Robert the
Bruce failed in his bids
to become king of Scotland.
Come on.
A great fight
ensued, both men champions,
both battle-hardened.
They fought for the crown,
the supremacy of their clans,
and for the future of Scotland.
For the Bruce will
fight for freedom,
but the Comyn was a puppet
of the English crown.
When the church
doors burst open,
with the fire of behind
the figure that emerged,
no one knew at first who it was.
Was it the Bruce or the
Comyn, the Comyn or the Bruce?
They're dreaming now.
Do you think we'll
ever fight again?
It's been years since
the Bruce was crowned.
Six battles loss.
Uncle Brandubh says he's
got no army to speak of.
Calls him the pretender king.
I don't know, Carney, but I
know I'd never call him that.
Now help me with the bucket.
In just six years, we ruled
this country, didn't we, you
and I, without a royal ambition.
Three days, maybe four,
we'll be safe in [inaudible]..
Will we ever go home?
You miss your Ma?
I miss my Ma, too.
Your Ma and Pa lived in
a bigass castle, though,
didn't they?
The castle, ay.
Ay.
It's where I was born.
It's home.
All around at the
fields and forests,
where I played as a wee lad.
Can we go there?
The English took
it from him, lad.
Now some fat pig has his ass
plopped in his fancy chair
and his fancy table.
One day, ay.
Oh, aye.
One day we'll
be sat around that table,
aye, eating boar,
drinking claret.
That man there, he's
going to free Scotland.
I'm going to take
back my castle.
I'm going to stick that English
pig on the end of my sword
and I'm going to fling
him over my castle wall.
And you'll go home, too, a wee
bit older, more man than boy.
You'll see your Ma again.
After winter, you'll see.
We'll not go to Norway.
Leave me.
Go home to your families.
We're done.
And if anyone asks you, whatever
happened to Robert the Bruce,
you tell them you know not.
You tell them you fought with
the Comyn and the English
all along.
Go home.
Go.
Stop this talk now.
You're the king.
God chooses kings,
James, not men.
We're done fighting, lad.
What were we fighting for?
Go home, he says.
Tell them we were fighting
for Comyn all along.
I've heard Comyn has 50
pieces for him, gold.
Time to be free from James.
It's regicide.
It's a sin.
We don't have to
kill him, only capture.
There's a reward on your head.
You're not safe on your own.
I'll not stop fighting
for you, for Scotland.
Look at those faces, James.
Look at them.
They're done.
Have no fight left in them.
We're done here.
On your own, lads.
But first do the work, Hamish.
Try to set the hook too
soon, she'll leap right off.
If you let her nibble a bit
and set the hook herself,
she won't get away.
Take that.
Good, lad.
Where are you three headed then?
The homes to the
south, I reckon?
Aye, so his his.
He's after the
reward, same as us.
Ah, the reward,
50 gold pieces.
Is that your prize?
There's three of us, James.
You know it wouldn't matter
if there were 10, would it?
You I had for a decent man.
Your music has been very dear to
me these past few months, you.
I've never liked you anyway,
but I fought next to you
and I'd have died for
you as a countryman.
It's over, James.
The Bruce failed.
Robert the Bruce never
lost those battles,
you did, and the men like you.
You failed them,
and now you chase
after them, after some reward.
Either we do it or
someone else will.
Judas, traitors all.
Now.
Hamish.
What are you doing?
Stay out of it.
James.
No.
James.
You didn't need
to kill Hamish.
He was armed.
Aye, with an ax, he
could barely swing.
And it was going in his back.
He's a child.
Leave him.
He's still breathing.
What are you doing?
He knows where we're going.
James Douglas is
not dying like this.
He knows where we're going.
Say a prayer.
Say a prayer.
I can make you
free now, can't I?
Your day be filled with
blessings, like the sun
that lights the sky.
You'll always have the courage
to spread their wings and fly.
Don't you thank me?
Ma.
Don't.
Ma.
Don't make me.
Ma.
En garde.
En garde.
I got you now.
Scot.
Scot.
Here, help me gather these.
En garde.
I am helping you.
Thank you, good sir.
Did we lose then?
We won.
Good.
Now help me fill this basket.
Of course, my lady.
Who do you think you are?
I'm the king.
Is that enough?
We're not done.
That's so pretty.
Look at that.
Beautiful.
Like you.
For your father.
Kneel with me, if you'd like.
Would you like to say something?
Bless you.
He should've never left us.
[inaudible] for English.
Find the king and kill him.
Scot.
I do.
Do you think he hears us, Ma?
Aye.
Back home?
Aye.
Horse went that way.
He's going that way.
Aye.
How about the horses?
What, you think yours
can go where his can't?
Michael's got a magic horse.
All right, he's
gone up this way.
Left to pieces, lads.
Left to pieces.
Scot, go wash your hands.
But my hands are filthy.
[inaudible]
That's your favorite.
One more scoop?
Aye, finish that first.
It's my birthday.
One more scoop.
Scot.
How is your day, Scot?
Good so far.
What did you get me?
A present, as always.
Did you feed the
goats, [inaudible]??
Aye.
All right.
We thank you for Scot,
for today we celebrate
the beginning of his 11th year.
He's going to be a good lad.
Although sometimes he might be
a little wild, he trusts in You.
He's a good boy, a good son.
I pray for Scotland
and for our king,
that you guide him
and give him strength.
We pray that you protect
us during the winter ahead,
that we may have food and
that we may stay safe.
Amen.
Amen.
Amen.
[inaudible]
Tell the story, Ma.
No more.
It's my birthday.
Ma, start at the church.
She means the violent bit.
All right.
Now the Bruce had
disarmed John Comyn.
When word spread
what had happened,
Robert the Bruce
was excommunicated
from the holy church and
brandished a villain,
and the priests of
Scotland crowned him king.
His family was taken from
him, his wife Elizabeth,
his wee princess Monterey.
He took up the mantle William
Wallace had carried to fight
for Scotland's freedom.
[inaudible] the vast English
army and the clans that
refused to support the cause.
For many years, he fought.
For many years, he
lost again and again.
He fought until the rivers
flowed red with Scottish blood,
until he was hunted
like an animal,
by English and Scotland alike.
Hit him, men.
[inaudible] ahead.
Over Robert the Bruce.
Shall we see the son of
[inaudible] gone to pieces?
But one day soon,
he'll raise another army
and he'll fight again.
Maybe one of you
will fight with him.
Not me.
He'll win and
we'll all be free.
Bless him, and the
first look at near death.
Did you know?
Aye, I did.
I really did.
If you do see a strange
man in the forest, tell me.
I am.
[inaudible]
down by the lock.
Go and see you [inaudible].
We're soldiers.
We need food.
On [inaudible], if you have any.
Who do you fight for, Robert
the Bruce or John Comyn?
My father fought with Robert
the Bruce at [inaudible]..
Is that so?
Aye.
He was very brave.
Robert the Bruce
even said so himself.
Daddy?
Aye.
He told us stories.
Get back.
Go on.
Where is he now, still
fight with the Bruce?
He died.
We're with the Comyn
clan, lad, as should you be.
Your lords have pledged
themselves to him.
My father fought with
William Wallace, too.
Oh, aye?
Aye.
Scotland died with
Wallace, if you ask me.
We offer our
gratitude for your food.
We'll be leaving.
Unless you'd like us to stay.
Will?
Widow could use
a helping hand.
I said we'll be going.
[inaudible] Can you
use a helping hand?
I said we'll be going.
Yes, we're leaving.
Ma.
You best leave us now.
You're going to
be a hero, are you?
He won't have to.
I'll show you what
happens [inaudible]..
Out, all right?
Scots attack
Scots to what end?
Aye.
One day we'll all be free.
One day we'll all be dead.
Michael's down.
All right, I'm coming.
Hey.
Hey.
I'm hurt.
Who are you?
I'm a soldier.
I need help.
And who are you a soldier for?
Can't you see I'm hurt?
I'm the Sheriff.
Who are you for?
We were following
Robert the Bruce.
We stand by the river.
And he?
They're dead.
He's killed him.
But he's hurt bad,
and I'm sure you
know there's 50 pieces for him.
I'll take you to him
and we'll share it, aye?
Aye.
Thomas, give him your horse.
Hey, show me.
If you tell the
truth, we'll help you.
Aye.
Donald, Finley, go with me.
Now lead the way.
Hey, it's him.
It's just under here.
You see.
This is Bruce's sword.
He couldn't have gone far.
He's winded.
What do you say?
Will you help?
Aye.
You will not feel
the pain for long.
I'm sorry, lad.
Let's go.
Anyone who hears of
this will seek the reward.
But if it's him, we'll have it
for ourselves, 50 gold pieces.
Won't matter, the size of
your sword then, Finley.
You'll be rich.
The sword could be his.
It's old enough.
Whether we find him
or no, this remains
a secret among ourselves.
We tell no one,
neither man nor woman.
Hey, if anyone learns of
this, I'll know it's you.
Know where you come.
Same as [inaudible],,
you understand?
Aye.
You'd fight him to
the death, our king.
He's no king of mine.
Think of the men,
fathers, sons, brothers,
stolen from us for his vanity.
We'll find him
dead, most likely.
But if not, I crave a
chance to fight him.
Freedom, I'll show
him the meaning of it.
Sit down, you stupid boy.
Robert, Robert the
Bruce, come out and see me.
Can you hear me?
Robert.
Robert.
Robert the Bruce,
can you hear me?
Robert, can you hear me?
Robert the Bruce,
can you hear me?
You're among friends.
We'll take care of your
wounds, give you food.
Do you think he's
in the mountains?
If he is, we'll need to
leave our horses here.
No, I think that
he'll go downhill.
Robert.
Robert the Bruce,
can you hear me?
Robert.
Robert the Bruce.
You're among friends.
Ah, children.
Although Carney,
you're no longer a boy.
Iver, get the horse tied up.
Hi, there.
Oh, you're a sight
for sore eyes.
Uncle.
Oh, Scott, you wee scoundrel.
Come here, nephew.
I brought you something
for your birthday.
Did you?
There you go.
Someone has to give Iver some
competition at the games.
You've not got a chance.
I'll in it next year.
Oh, you'll have
to practice, boy.
I know.
And guess what?
What?
Soldiers were here earlier.
Carney scared them off.
How do you know that?
Well, Ma gave some food,
but one of them got mean.
Did they?
Aye.
Carney, come.
Iver, maybe you can show my
men how to should an arrow.
Both of you, run along.
Brandubh.
You [inaudible]
Yorgi on Sunday.
Every day.
My brother was a lucky
man till death claimed him.
Carney.
Hello, bonnie darling.
Carney, come.
This sword is chipped,
see, here and here.
It's dented here.
Needs repairing.
Whose is it?
It belongs to a noble.
Could bring it to old
Sean in the village,
but I know you've been
learning from him.
Get better praise for your
work now than he gets for his.
So finish it over the winter
and show him your skill,
maybe even prove yourself
to his daughter, huh?
We'll need gold for the handle.
You'll have that.
The work must be perfect.
Hey, take it and go.
Would you like
something to drink?
So there were soldiers here?
Aye.
One of them was trouble?
Oh, it was nothing.
We were safe.
For how long?
Don't you ever think about
living in the village?
We're happy here.
[inaudible] I
want to help you.
You do help.
My house is safe,
large, warm, and lonely.
I say [inaudible].
When you were my
sister-in-law, you used to love
to listen to those songs.
They're dead, you
know, those men.
I killed them.
You'd never need to
fear for strangers
if you lived in the village.
[inaudible]
Well, this will
be my last time
up here before the snow melts.
When I return, I'll
be taking Carney.
You have no right.
He's of age and has
a duty to the clan.
It's only a kindness to you
that I don't take him now.
Besides, how much
longer will he be
able to stay here when
old Sean's daughter's
waiting for him in the village.
Come with him.
Find the rest of
your [inaudible]..
I'll take care of
the lot of you.
[inaudible],, but
you will come to me.
Carney.
I'm here for your father.
Craftsmanship,
hand [inaudible]
master that is smooth, strong.
Listen, boy.
You're still my apprentice,
turn again and again and again
and again and again.
Brandubh said
you'll seal the gold.
Not here.
Far from here, France maybe.
Boom biddy boom biddy
boom goes the hammer.
Tappity tappity tappity tap.
Gold?
Aye.
How much did he
give you for it?
Tell Briana to fetch me ale.
Let me go, Briana.
No.
You'll have to fight
me for passage.
All right.
Briana.
See you after the winter.
I don't believe him.
Brandubh.
It's the finest
sword I've ever seen.
Brandubh is not a
man to be trifled with.
Whose is it?
Scot says he saw a
man in the forest.
Scot is always the
boy who cries wolf.
You know that.
Now get to bed before
you wake the children.
I'm not a child.
You always had a
grown way about you.
I love you like a son.
I must do what I
believe is right.
Aye.
Brandubh's a dog.
When my son was born,
you told me the dream.
You'd seen him, that you'd
seen him on the battlefield.
You told me he was
with Robert the Bruce.
I remember.
The soldiers were cheering
because they'd won their fight.
But you said more.
You said more.
What you saw, will
it come to pass?
Will my Scot die?
It was just a dream.
There was a premonition.
He was in his 11th year.
You cannot stop your
boy from becoming a man.
Nothing's certain of the
future, not even the present.
I'm scared.
You have to let go.
No.
You have to let go.
Hey, I understand.
I understand.
The spider's web must be spun.
Lost souls journey must be won.
The king's delight
must be undone.
The song of justice
must be sung.
Who do you side with,
the Bruce or the Comyn?
The Comyn.
Comyn.
Let go.
Let go.
Shh.
Shh.
Shh.
Stop.
Stop.
Shh.
Let Iver kill him.
Shh.
I can do it.
Carney.
I hit him.
Nice shot.
I could've done it.
Move his legs.
That was a perfect shot.
Carney.
Iver.
Carney.
Is he awake?
Who is he?
Can you tell?
It's Robert the Bruce,
I already told you.
I think he's dead.
Check his chest.
He's alive.
Help me move him.
Quick, help me
find the [inaudible]..
You'll be rich.
Children, that man in
there, and we know who he is.
Our lives are in great
danger with him in the croft.
Uncle Brandubh would kill him.
[inaudible]
He's our king.
But Ma.
Scot, quiet.
We'd be rich.
His life is in our hands.
Now, it's God's
will he came here.
If we help him, we'll
have to leave, won't we?
Brandubh will learn of it.
Thinking of Briana.
You're right.
He's our king.
We have a duty to him.
That's his sword.
Brandubh lied to me.
He'll kill him,
won't he, and us.
Brandubh lost men he
loved to the Bruce's horse.
Yorgi, his friends.
He'll always bear a grudge.
Not a word.
Come inside.
Children, I need your help.
There's something in there.
Was that from a sword?
Maybe.
Help me get him out of sight.
Get a cloth.
Put it down here, Scot.
Put one in the water.
Down there.
You need to watch.
He'll bleed.
I'm not afraid of blood, Ma.
All right.
Clean it.
See to him, Iver.
Ma.
He kicked me in the chest.
Be quiet, Scot.
Get me a cloth.
Ma, he hurt me.
That was shock is all.
[inaudible] care.
His leg.
Aye.
Carney, the knife.
All right, hold him down.
Iver, hold him.
Ready?
Hold him down.
Hold him.
Carney, here.
Tie it.
Tie it tight.
Good.
Iver, Carney, back to your work.
Scot, come here.
Are you hurt?
Where?
My dad
told me, son, none are
safe once the fight has begun.
They've taken everything,
our brothers, fathers, sons.
You stole my heart.
They've taken our weapons.
They take, they take, they take
until they've had their fill.
'Cause when there's
nothing left to love,
then it's time to kill.
She's a witch.
Shh.
Watch out for her.
Shh.
You're not
welcome here, witch.
You're not still pining
over that Morag, are you?
Oh, love that
pains will always pain.
Her heart belongs
forever to your brother.
You best shut your mouth.
I will not.
Shall I buy you a
wee dram, [inaudible]??
I see what I see.
A man like you, handsome as
you are, important as you are,
you're no wild thistle.
But you'll be rich after
the winter, won't you?
What are you doing?
I didn't say nothing.
You'll tell everyone
you're just running
your mouth about the Bruce.
It's a laugh is all.
Anyone [inaudible]
when the snow melts,
I'll slit your bloody throat.
The English is gone.
You're the king now.
We won?
The spider's web must be spun.
The king's delight
must be undone.
Lost soul's journey must be won.
The song of justice
must be sung.
Who are you?
The
spider's web must be spun.
Lost soul's journey must be won.
The king's delight
must be undone.
The song of justice
must be sung.
It's too far away.
He's got 100 excuses.
When someone comes to kill
the king, we'll have to fight.
You won't be able to
fight him hand-to-hand.
Sure I will.
You're not strong enough.
First sign of anything, you
get your bow and your quiver
and you run to that tree.
Iver, you climb
your perch there.
Aye.
As soon as fighting starts,
you do what you can, all right?
I don't want to fight them.
Aye.
I know.
We all have to protect your Ma.
I have to protect you, too.
If we have to fight,
Iver, come on.
I give the orders or
else someone might die.
It might be him or Iver or me
or you, but it could be your Ma.
We're family, aye?
Aye.
Now take your bow, try again.
Be patient this time.
Ready?
Aye.
That was closer.
You'll get even closer.
Bruce, are they coming?
Bruce?
He'll lose this fight.
We'll see about that.
Now you're going to die.
Ma.
Ma.
Ma.
Your fever's broken.
I know you.
No.
No, you don't.
I saw you.
Leave me alone.
You were frozen
when Scot found you.
Rest now.
Run along.
May I?
Your wounds are healing.
It was all a dream.
The fever?
Freedom.
Victory.
Nothing.
Robert.
Robert the Bruce.
This is my elder
nephew, Carney.
This is my younger niece, Iver.
And there's my boy, Scot.
Please, take a seat.
Carney was barely a year when
the Wallace began to fight.
Our clan was going
to England, and it
was decreed that anyone who
joined him would be an outlaw.
So my brother Toag
decided to join him.
I pleaded with him not to.
He seemed so proud when
he went off to fight.
Carney cried.
He cried.
He cried for his father.
Your father went to
fight with King Robert.
He cried, too.
No, he didn't.
Yeah, he did.
My other brother, Boak, he was
older than me by six years.
He was an archer, same as Iver.
Aye, so you're an archer?
So am I.
She's good.
The men in the village
have trouble keeping up
with her [inaudible].
Toag never knew he was a father.
His mother died
when she was born
and, just days later, Boak
had fallen at [inaudible]..
I had the two wee children.
Ma, tell about the poem.
Toag was a poet.
After [inaudible] died,
Toag composed a song.
There's blood...
In the locks.
There is blood in the house, on
the rocks and mountain peaks.
And when we look up to
our Maker, the sky burns,
brushed with a scarlet ink
of those hearts we loved.
Do not lose hope,
the bleeding sky
will not succumb
to the shadow that
darkens this land,
for [inaudible]
the sun rising above the dirty
house, as the dawn, a new day.
That's beautiful.
Your father wrote that?
Aye.
Now mine.
Tell him about him.
He was a good man,
and good with the sword.
And word came that
you've been [inaudible]
and were fighting
for our freedom.
Our clan pledged themself to
you and raised up an army.
My Yorgi, he was
the younger son.
His older brother, Brandubh,
he should have gone.
But he was a Sheriff
so he stayed behind
and my Yorgi went in his place.
Brandubh is still the Sheriff.
Yorgi was with you at
[inaudible],, but he was hurt.
They cut off his leg
before the journey home.
He was near gone
when he arrived.
Our clan lost faith and placed
themselves to the Comyn.
My Yorgi still believed in you.
He told us that no
matter what the odds,
no matter how difficult the
fight, you wouldn't give up.
He would have fought the
clan to join you again.
But his wounds festered.
He died right there,
as you are now.
So you think
you can make them?
Can I make them he asks?
Of course
I can make them.
Devil spikes though they
are, but I make them.
My men will be bringing
you their weapons
for sharpening as well, all to
be done before the snows melt.
So pretty.
Away they go, steel
shining in the sunlight,
singing songs, and smiling.
Away they go I'll
give them spikes.
Away they go, never
to be seen again.
Thank you, Briana.
Aye.
Before the snow
melts, you say?
Aye.
Children, head down to
the river and set the traps.
Aye, Ma.
Not now, I'm cleaning the barn.
Do as I say.
Wait there.
You're not supposed
to be hunting.
Come help me set this.
Wait, Carney.
Aim, don't just shoot.
With your eyes, Scot.
Look at him with your eyes.
I know how to do it.
But [inaudible] will follow.
It's your fault for talking.
I just told you.
I can do it myself.
Iver, Scot, quit quarreling
and help me set the traps.
You should have aimed.
I did aim.
Shut it, both of you.
I don't see why we
have to set traps anyway.
We have all that
venison stored up.
Your Ma said so.
It's for the Bruce.
She wants more meat.
Should have left
him where he was.
He's a man.
Couldn't have just let him die.
My dad died because of him,
and so did yours and yours.
Why can't we tell Uncle
Brandubh about him?
We made a promise, Scot.
What if he lives
and raises an army?
What if our lord
side with him again?
He'll go and fight.
What then?
Just set the traps.
Amen.
When will you fight again?
Scot.
I want to know.
Do you have a plan?
I don't have an army here.
They're your army.
What about you?
I reckon they'll
kill you in your sleep.
Take the [inaudible].
Scot.
My lord.
Have you ever killed before?
Aye
What?
Chickens.
Uh-huh.
Squirrel, elk, pigs.
You ever killed a man?
You're a good lad.
He's strong, full of life.
But you know what it takes
to be a good soldier?
Lots of men.
No.
To be a good soldier, first
you have to be a good brother,
a good friend, and a good son.
I am a good son, aren't I, Ma?
Aye, Scot.
When you're Carney's age,
you'll be ready to fight.
Until then, you practice being
a good boy, then a good man.
And that's what being a good
soldier is, knowing you're
fighting the good fight.
What's the good fight?
When you're old enough
to know the answer to that,
you'll be ready.
Now in the meantime, why
don't you take this knife
and peel some potatoes
for your mother?
Put the knife down, Scot.
He's not my dad.
He doesn't tell me what
to do in my own house.
Scot.
Let go.
Scot.
I'm sorry your father
isn't here for you.
I am sorry he died in my war.
I'm sorry he isn't
here to see you
grow into a fine, young man.
He'd be ever so proud of you.
But if it's revenge you want,
a life for a life, take mine.
[inaudible]
Scot, come and practice.
All right, let's start
with positioning.
Nice to see you
walking around.
Aye.
If our men had women
like you, I think we'd
have won our battle by now.
And you've raised
fine, young children.
I've done my best.
Here, let me look at your wound.
Right.
How did it happen?
Three soldiers came after me.
They wanted the reward.
You were alone?
Aye.
But I thought the king
would have some men with him.
I sent them away.
Why would you do that?
No, that doesn't concern me.
I truly believed that God
had chosen me to be king,
and then we lost.
God didn't choose me, I did.
And everything I did to honor
him and everything I've done
defiled Him instead.
I had a dream that I was king.
We were free.
I thought it was real.
Maybe it was a premonition.
Your son Scot was
in that dream with me.
Open your cloak.
Aye.
I should leave here soon.
You'll leave when you're well.
Healing me is
treason in these lands.
You've given enough.
[inaudible] my
choice to heal you.
We'll defend you
the best we can.
Aye, you're my king.
I know I'm your servant,
but until you're well,
I'm your nurse.
You're my patient.
You'll do as I say.
Aye.
Can we visit you when
you're back in your castle?
I will return to my castle.
Is it nice?
I [inaudible] a castle.
[inaudible]
Aye.
[inaudible] No
one owns anything.
This land was here for any of
us and it'll be here long after.
It doesn't belong
to anyone really.
Perhaps we belong to it.
Perhaps.
I'd like to live in a castle.
I only want to say
it's mine, though.
King Robert, is
this your sword?
Where did you find that?
My uncle gave it to me to fix.
I return it to you.
You're a blacksmith?
I'm learning.
It's a fine one.
Keep it.
It's yours.
Let's give it
back to your uncle.
It's not right.
It belongs to you, the king.
It would be better to keep
the peace with your uncle
rather than risk
your neck with me.
You just [inaudible]
for Scotland, for us.
I'd do the same for you.
You're a brave lad.
Are you all right?
You fear for Scot.
Listen, I'll not take your son.
There'll be no more wars.
I'll not fight again.
Oh, you will.
If I could, Morag, I
would just disappear here
with you and the children, aye?
Disappear, like a
farmer, [inaudible]..
No.
Aye.
No.
No.
You did those for wives.
You did those for mothers.
We need to know our
men died for something.
Keep your children.
Keep them.
My son has a destiny no
mother's tears can change.
Our faith has tired tears.
You're coming with me.
Do you know where it is?
Watch it.
What's here?
What is it?
Look inside.
Is this the crown?
I now pronounce you queen
of the forests and the glens
and the fairies,
queen baliwigger.
Now you're dead.
Does that mean I'm king?
Ooh.
Very good.
Scot's turn.
It's his fault. [inaudible]
when you're picking out, Ma.
Ready?
Aye.
Aye.
Steady.
[inaudible]
And what did I tell you?
Spread your feet a bit more.
Your elbow.
[inaudible]
Ma, look.
I hit the target.
Good for you, Scot.
I found the Bruce.
He's at your brother's croft.
Sharp enough for you?
Aye.
And if the man we seek is alive,
I'll cleave his head in two.
I bet you will.
All boys will kill their enemies
and all their enemies are boys.
What man is that?
You should ask your boyfriend.
His family gave him meat.
On your way, lad.
But say nothing, Briana.
On your way, I said, and take
[inaudible] scrapey with you.
Fool.
Fool.
Sharpest sword in the
world wasted on the dullest
mind in the valley.
Dad, that sword Carney
brought you, the big one...
Shh, shh, shh.
Is he in trouble?
Shh.
Sleep, child.
House, a loaf of bread,
some mail, and the days
drift by and by like
clouds in the sky.
This is what a
man's hands must do.
We think of the
blade, not the blood.
No.
No.
Briana.
Briana.
Briana.
It's true.
You helped him.
They're on the way,
Brandubh and his men.
My dad has been making arms.
When will they come?
In the morning, I'm sure.
Carney, if you run,
I'm coming with you.
Aye.
Your hands are like ice.
Get her some soup.
That's them.
Aye.
Ma.
Ma, they're coming.
Quick, get inside.
You've changed me.
You've changed the king.
I'll be at the
land we'll live in.
Now if it comes to a fight, some
of us might not see the sunset,
but that is the
true nature of war.
But know this, I see now in
your eyes what Scotland can be.
You felt her fear and her age.
You've heard the
roar of her soul.
You've wept her tears
and you've shed her blood
and you have touched the
cold, cruel skin of her death.
We have known Scotland, clutched
in the grip of a mighty hand.
And now we'll set her free.
Is that not worth fighting for?
Aye.
Aye.
Aye.
Aye.
Aye.
Oh, good Brandubh,
look what I can do.
I've been practicing at the bow.
Better keep practicing.
Aye.
The winter was good to you.
Children killed a buck.
Have more than we
could eat all winter.
It's good to see you.
Is it?
Aye.
Carney, what you've got there?
Looks like new.
Your work is excellent.
I'd like to give it to
you and not old Sean.
Balanced just right.
Heavy but strong.
I'm sure [inaudible] will
be glad to have it back.
Payment for your work.
It's a fine property.
Never thought of Yorgi as
a farmer when we were boys,
but he was happy here with you.
Aye.
Pity, all this, him gone.
I told you when I
return, I'd be bringing
Carney back to the village.
He's of age.
He is.
Come with him.
I've thought of it.
It was a cold winter.
Aye, aye it was.
I have work to do
here before we leave.
A month, maybe two.
Then I'll join you.
You'll be my wife?
Aye.
And share my bed?
I've been married before.
I know [inaudible] do.
[inaudible]
Let's go inside.
Let me finish what I
have to do here first,
then you can have
me when you want.
Take me inside.
Now.
Patience.
[inaudible] the winter.
What would I say
about the children?
[inaudible] You've not
[inaudible] a man before winter
here in my brother's house.
Give in to me and I'll
take you as my wife.
[inaudible] then
I'll have no choice.
Think of the children,
Carney, Iver,
your Scot, and you last of all.
You, Morag, to be the
[inaudible] of [inaudible]..
He's a king.
Search high and low.
We'll find him here.
Where is he?
Show him to me.
Show him to me.
[inaudible] I am Robert
the Bruce, your king.
This family is
under my protection.
Lay down your swords.
This is your king?
And what's a king made of?
Of flesh and blood.
Go home or join us.
You will not be harmed.
No harm shall come to me.
[inaudible]
He's our king.
Carney.
Iver, I'm [inaudible].
Iver.
Iver.
Iver.
Iver.
[inaudible]
Stay there.
You ride on ahead, all right?
What's your name?
Where are you from?
Are you with
England or the Bruce?
Are you with England
or the Bruce?
And who might you be,
riding through my forest?
Robert?
Aye.
Is that Robert?
Come, this family
saved my life.
They kept me alive
through the winter months.
Come on.
Come on, lads.
They're my family now, my
blood, through the spirit
that unites us all.
My name is Angus
of the clan McDonald.
You've done a great service
to your king and to Scotland.
I welcome you to our
alliance, and I pledge to you
all that you will be
cared for by our clan
and you'll make
a good home here.
James.
James Douglas, come look who
I found hiding in the forest.
Angus, what did you find?
I searched far and wide for you.
It's good to see you, James.
You told your men go home.
They didn't go.
You told them to put
their swords down,
but they kept them sharp.
Been waiting for you
all across the country.
Tell me that you'll lead us.
Tell me that we
will fight again.
Through this winter, you
and I, all of Scotland,
have been waiting, hoping,
believing that our fight
for freedom would start again.
This is the day that
we have been waiting
for, for our king lives.
Send out riders far and wide.
Tell them it is
time to raise again.
Tell them it is
time we fight again.
Tell them it is time
to make ourselves free.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
Bruce.
And so
that's our story, Scot.
Your story, your blood
set us free [inaudible]..
I see you everywhere.
You in the morning mist, you
and all the wee beasties,
you in every [inaudible]
running free,
you in the evening
laughter, you in my dreams.