The Last Kingdom (2015–…): Season 4, Episode 4 - Episode #4.4 - full transcript
[Uhtred] I am Uhtred, son of Uhtred.
My lifelong ambition
to take back my birthright
to Bebbanburg has ended in failure.
Beocca!
- He is with God now. He is at peace.
- [sobs]
While I struggle to come to terms
with this devastating loss,
Haesten has revealed the true cause
of Ragnar’s death.
[Haesten] Let me live
and I'll tell you who gave the command.
- Speak.
- Cnut.
But Brida knows nothing
of Cnut’s treachery...
and prepares to ride into battle with him.
When the kings are dead,
we will sit together on Alfred’s throne.
Aethelred, blinded by lust and power,
has foolishly invaded Daneland.
[Eardwulf] Cnut did not sail to Irland.
Haesten gave me false information.
- You must tell Aethelred the truth!
- If I tell him the truth, he will kill me.
[Eadith]
I will do all I can to soften the blow.
Aethelhelm’s influence on Edward
has caused conflict in Winchester.
These are my people.
I will not send them to be slaughtered
while Cnut sets the terms of the battle!
You will take a message to the Welsh King.
Aethelflaed is expecting an army.
We must deliver one.
I have taken Cnut’s sons as my prisoners
and brought them to Aethelflaed...
to be used as bait in the battle
I know is to come.
Destiny is all!
[pants]
The monastery is two miles south.
I am not looking for the monastery.
- Saxons are not welcome here, Father.
- I know.
But I’ve urgent business with King Hywel.
[exhales]
- Are you Saxon?
- Well, I was born a Briton.
You will only find trouble here, Brother.
You will find more than trouble
if you do not let me pass.
[Young Uhtred] Oh, Lord,
grant us the knowledge of your power
when it comes to pass that a man and wife
may bring a child into this world.
They clothe him. They cherish him,
but God alone may know his fate.
These children were in darkness.
- [sobbing]
- Now they are saved.
Bring them the light of your love,
Lord God...
and let them walk as children of light.
Where are they? Why is she not ready?
They mourn the dead.
...than he who considers
before his soul’s departure
how worthy he may be deemed
after his death...
There is no time for this.
[breathes heavily]
They are children, Uhtred.
Sons of Mercia's most revered men.
[sobs softly]
When did children become the cost of war?
[Uhtred] You did all that you could.
Now, come.
They took their heads. [inhales deeply]
All of them.
We must move off
before the Danes know that you are here.
Not until they have been blessed!
- Aethelflaed, please...
- Not until they have been blessed!
[Finan] Danes! The Danes are here, Lord!
- They're heading towards the gates!
- How many?
Too many, Lord!
Stay back, Aethelflaed.
Seeing you will inflame them.
Go! Upstairs now!
- [Finan] They got past the entrance!
- Go. We will hold them off.
[all yelling]
[grunts]
Give me the Lady
and you will not be slaughtered!
Do not even consider it!
- I will not have men murdered in my place!
- I will not see you taken!
You have the word of Cnut!
He only wants Alfred's daughter!
[all grunting]
- Is there another way out?
- No!
- Can we get to the roof?
- We would only get trapped.
- Let me bargain.
- Lady, you are the bargain.
[Aethelflaed] We cannot just let death
come to us. I will not just wait for it.
What are we doing, Lord?
The door will not hold!
- Bring me Cnut's sons.
- Sihtric!
Uhtred, you cannot.
There will be another way.
You must trust me and you must swear
- to me you will stay here. Swear to me!
- Do not do this...
Where is she?
[men grunting]
Kill them all!
- [Uhtred] Enough!
- [silence]
Come and face me.
I have Cnut's sons.
You are lying.
[boys whimper]
Leave this place
or I will cut their throats!
Take a son of Cnut...
every Dane in this land
will see it avenged!
Yes and every Dane will come for you, too.
The blood of his child will be
on your hands.
Do not play games.
Send them down now...
or all the men here will be killed.
Leave this place
or I will cut off their heads!
You harm them and every Saxon here dies!
[Young Cnut] No!
- [Young Cnut screams]
- [Esgar] No!
[boys sob and scream]
- [sword thuds]
- [screaming stops]
[Uhtred grunts]
No! [sobs]
[Esgar] No!
[Uhtred] Leave!
Or I will kill the other one also!
Go!
Now... go!
No!
- [Esgar sobs]
- Stay down. Look! Your brother’s alive.
Cnut will hunt us as soon as he gets word
I killed his boy.
- Surely we just show that they are alive?
- Danes do not work like that.
We're now headed for battle.
What about the boys?
Cut them free and let them run.
They’ve served their purpose.
And was the purpose
to enrage a Danish army?
It bought us time
and allowed us to escape with our lives.
Fate wants to drag us
to fight for the Saxons.
[laughs] Yes. It was definitely fate
that dragged us into all of this.
Uhtred had nothing to do with it.
I do not seek battles.
Battles just seem to seek me.
[Finan chuckles]
[Uhtred] But you are right,
I have unleashed a storm.
Cnut will find us. This is now our fight.
[Finan] It was our fight from the moment
you took those boys from Haesten, Lord.
The men would be forgiven
for abandoning me.
They like an adventure
and they’re loyal to a good leader.
As are you.
Which is the fastest road to Tettenhall?
[pants]
Do not fear the beast. He’s been fed.
[men chuckle]
- Does he like strangers?
- Only when cooked.
[Hywel and men laugh]
You are from the boy king in Wessex?
Why do you come crawling before us?
Wessex would like to strike a bargain.
I do not make treaties with Saxons.
Nevertheless, we have an offer.
There is concern in Wessex about Cnut
and his incursion into Mercia.
Alfred's actions have bitten Edward
on the arse. So?
Cnut's army is slaughtering
all in their path.
You are not friends to us, Father Pyrlig.
Why should any of this concern me?
Because it brings a dangerous heathen
to your border.
And yet, our borders are strong...
because we’ve been repelling Saxons
for years.
[men laugh]
As you know, Alfred wanted
all the Christian kingdoms to unite.
Yes, under his banner,
so we could all bow to him.
He wanted to conquer, not unite the faith.
Nevertheless that faith
is now under threat.
We follow the same one God
and share a common enemy.
You know that, Lord King.
And you know to repel Cnut now
will save you bloodshed later, so,
it is a bargain that works for both of us.
[dog grunts]
What are Edward's plans?
Mercians are gathering at Tettenhall.
There are... plans
for Wessex to join them.
And what would I get in return,
in this holy war against the pagans?
And do not tell me recompense in heaven.
Celestial rewards do not build fortresses.
What is it you want?
The spoils of battle, all of them,
every last piece of Danish silver.
That is not a promise
I have the authority to make.
You are here on Edward's orders,
you must have his authority.
Do I have your promise, Father Pyrlig?
Let him swear upon the book.
[indistinct chattering in background]
Eardwulf!
What news of our troops in Lindcylne?
The settlements that surround it
are resisting, Lord, but we will prevail.
I should hope so.
I want all of East Anglia
or our bargain does not hold.
It would be a shame
for your family to go unrewarded.
After so much effort!
He’s like a pig rolling in shit.
[chuckles]
Ask me nothing of the detail.
It was a favor to you, not to him.
It is enough that humping me
has lifted his spirits.
So, you must tell him
the news from Mercia.
- Perhaps I should delay...
- You cannot put it off.
I know you are afraid,
but I have bought us some goodwill.
- I'm not afraid. I'm just...
- You are afraid and so am I.
But I have done my part, brother.
Now you do yours.
[exhales slowly]
[both grunt]
[Steapa chuckles]
[yelling and grunting]
- [both pant]
- [chuckles]
- Do not let me win, Steapa.
- Lord, I am not.
What has happened?
The settlements around Lindcylne
have capitulated.
If you want to see some hands,
it can be arranged.
[chuckles]
And what’s the bad news?
You are clearly waiting
to deliver bad news.
News has come from Edward, Lord King.
I regret to tell you
that Cnut's armies have raided Mercia
and taken your palace at Aegelesburg.
Is this the same Cnut that you told me
was heading to Irland...
to help some feral cousin?
Yes, Lord.
Because of whom
I left my kingdom undefended?
And now it is in ruins?
There was no reason to mistrust
the information.
My spy in the Danish camp was certain.
He swore it was true.
- Haesten is a close ally of...
- Did you say Haesten?
- Yes, Lord. He's a close...
- I know who he is!
He is well known to be a liar!
You are nothing but a rat's turd,
who should never have been trusted
with anything more than an ax!
[breathes heavily]
I pitied you...
gave your whore of a sister the chance
to restore your family and this...
is how you repay me.
Only a fool would have trusted Haesten.
- I know, but I've made a plan to retake...
- My reputation will be ripped to shreds!
We’ve had word from Lady Aethelflaed.
She will be at Tettenhall,
where she plans to lure Cnut.
So now my wife is heading to battle
before me...
so that she can be revered
as the savior of my kingdom?
How in the name of God
is that supposed to cheer me?
I'm just saying that there is a plan.
Lord, there is advantage in this,
if you play it right,
a chance to return to Mercia
as the avenging hero.
[breathes heavily]
Can the men get here by morning?
Uh, yes, Lord. I can send orders
for them to return immediately.
- This could be your greatest triumph...
- You are finished, Eardwulf!
Please do not execute me.
You will pray for execution.
When we return to Aegelesburg,
I will publicly castrate you.
And your family will never prosper
and your sister will never leave my bed.
[breathes heavily]
[door opens]
Why have you sent Father Pyrlig to Wealas?
Do not lie to me, Mother. We have spies
in every court from here to Rome!
Hywel has Danes,
rampaging near his borders.
It is only right for Pyrlig
to alert him to it.
Have you asked Hywel for help?
That is unforgiveable.
I had to do something!
Your sister has thrown herself
into the lion's mouth.
I challenge any mother to act differently.
You are not just any mother.
You are the mother of a king.
Cnut wants us to march on his terms.
It is a trap you have walked into.
But Hywel is a Christian,
and God wants us to be united.
Hywel serves no one but his own people.
In going to him,
you have made Wessex look divided.
Cnut will hear of it
and think we are weak!
Yes, but I want my daughter safe.
Then you should have persuaded her
to stay in Wessex.
My men would not forgive me for chasing
my sister into a hopeless battle.
And yet you know they'll also revile you
for letting her die.
Like it or not,
Aethelflaed has forced your hand.
So I trade the life of Wessex soldiers
for my own honor?
That is what soldiers are there for,
to do the King's bidding...
Yes, but not the bidding
of the King's mother.
Besides, it is too late.
Aethelflaed's fyrds are marching.
You had word of that and did not tell me?
You were elsewhere, making other plans.
If you wanted men to speak your name
in awe,
believe me, this was not the way.
[door closes]
Lord.
I want all of these defenses
finished by sunset.
- Yes, My Lord.
- Good.
We are so close, Brida...
to everything we ever wanted.
Lands for our people to settle in
for generations.
Cnut?
Yes.
- There’s something...
- Ah. It’s Bjorgulf,
returning with Alfred's little bitch.
Where is Aethelflaed?
She escaped.
How did this happen?
Tell us.
Uhtred Ragnarson is in Aegelesburg.
He had your sons with him.
Haesten appears to have traded them
for his life.
Tell me that my sons live.
[breathes heavily]
I will not harm you.
Just tell me the news.
Uhtred beheaded your eldest son.
He would have killed Esgar
had we not left.
[yells angrily] No! Why? Why?
[groans and yells]
I want Uhtred Ragnarson taken immediately!
- No.
- No one sleeps until he is found!
No! This will be paid for in blood,
but we cannot let it distract us.
Avenging my child is not a distraction!
Jackdaw!
Cnut, I share your grief and your anger.
The gods know I do.
Please... do not let Uhtred lure you
into a fight. He's not the priority.
He killed my firstborn
And Esgar is still with him!
- If I have no heir, all of this...
- Cnut.
- All of this is for nothing!
- Cnut.
Do not give up our battle position!
It does not matter where we fight!
We have a thousand warriors!
- Jackdaw! Prepare the men to march!
- I will.
And send men ahead to find them!
We will follow... now!
- Cnut...
- Leave me!
This way is foolishness, Cnut!
[Cnut] You find him, Jackdaw!
You got a numb arse there?
You get used to a numb arse
kneeling through church all day.
It’s a damp arse that kills you.
[chuckles]
What do you think will happen
when we face the Danes?
A numb arse will be the least
of our problems.
- We're good fighters.
- When we are all fit to fight.
I have fought alongside your father
for a while now.
And he tends to come up with something...
at the last minute.
And many men are loyal to Aethelflaed,
even at their own cost.
And no doubt the pair of them
are devising a battle plan to save us all.
[breathing heavily]
[panting and kissing]
[softly] Not here. Not with them so close.
You would deny yourself
the day before a fight?
It gives me strength.
What if you die on the battlefield?
I will not die, because God favors
those with goodness in their hearts.
Maybe.
I believe the gods play with us.
And we do not know their reasons
or what is destined for us.
But tonight, I will believe
what you believe.
I thought your destiny was Bebbanburg.
I thought that.
For so long.
But now I ask myself why I failed there.
I know there is a plan for me,
yet I do not know what it is.
Only that it leads me to you.
And Finan is right. I chose to be here,
so, that must mean something.
It means that you care for the fate
of Mercia and the Saxons.
Now you sound like your father.
[laughs]
He only used me for his own wishes.
Yes, he was a wise man,
and I tried to follow in his path.
So, perhaps then,
I, too, should only use you for my wishes.
Edward...
come and rest.
God is guiding you. I know it.
[footsteps approaching]
Do not turn away from all of your family.
I know your son would like to see you.
He often speaks fondly of you.
A child without its father's guidance
will grow weak.
Which is why I endeavor
to seek the Lord's help.
So if you would leave me in peace.
[door opens and closes]
There's no point disturbing him.
He is still deep in prayer.
He does not need divine guidance.
He just needs to listen to those of us
that know the cost of battle.
His mother’s been advising him.
Yes. I’m afraid that’s not all
she’s been doing.
Lady Aelswith was seen visiting
Edward's bastard at the monastery.
I am told she arranged a reunion
between the boy and his mother.
Why? What business has she showing
kindness to a whore and her offspring?
I do not know.
But a rumor persists that their marriage
was legitimate.
A false rumor.
But still one that could endanger my son,
when the time comes.
[sobs and sighs]
I trust you are keeping
your husband satisfied.
Another son would strengthen our position.
I try to, Father, but he is not
as attentive as he once was.
The matters of Kingship weigh heavy
on him.
Then you must try harder...
because it is clear that Lady Aelswith
is following a plan of her own.
Then you must do something to stop her,
before she turns the King from me
and my son!
I will do what I must. Trust me.
I have not come this far to be thwarted
by a bitter widow.
[men yelling]
[Finan] Um...
Is this the place?
Yes.
I'm not sure I can see Edward's camp.
I’m not sure I can see anyone.
He will be here.
[horses whinnying]
I sent word
that the fyrds should gather in the woods.
I will ready them for battle
before my brother arrives.
[men yelling indistinctly]
[Finan] Lord.
[Finan whistles] Men!
- [Uhtred] That is not a fyrd.
- And they are not Mercian.
You do not look like Christians.
We are men from Wealas,
loyal to King Hywel.
Are you an ally or an enemy of Mercia?
We are here to fight Cnut, Lady.
And best The Dane as we have bested
the Saxon for so many years.
And the fyrds?
I put them under the command
of the little bald priest.
I am not bald! I'm certainly not little!
Father Pyrlig! I do not understand?
He rode to Wealas
to beg King Hywel for his army.
[softly] Edward sent him to find allies.
I knew he would not abandon me!
No, Lady. It was your mother who sent me.
I have had no word from the King.
Then we fight with what we have.
- [Uhtred] It’s good to see you, Pyrlig.
- You, too, Lord Uhtred.
- [chuckling]
- [Pyrlig] Finan! Sihtric!
- Father Pyrlig!
- It’s good to see you are alive.
Even with these Welshmen,
we may not be enough.
I know you have summoned Cnut,
but you can still turn away with honor.
No one would condemn you
for leaving an unfair fight.
I do not fight for honor, Uhtred.
I fight because
someone must make a stand against Cnut...
even though I am forbidden.
As a sister, I am defiant,
but as a daughter of Alfred,
I am just doing my duty.
Even if it wasn’t made for me,
I can't blindly follow the King's command.
That is something I understand.
Yet I cannot believe he has left me
to face this without him.
I thought, somehow,
he would find it in his heart.
What do I tell my men?
[sighs]
Tell them your brother is close behind us.
They must believe we have a chance.
We've heard from Uhtred
and the Lady Aethelflaed.
Where are they?
They’re waiting for you
at a place called Tettenhall.
We go?
It mocks the gods to give away
the advantage!
I will have my revenge.
[warriors bang shields rhythmically]
There are worse places to defend.
With a few more men,
we would stand a chance.
Follow me.
[grunting]
[grunts]
It is prepared.
Will it work?
I do not know.
[Uhtred] They're coming.
Get into position!
[Rhodri] Follow me!
Mercians to the woods!
To the woods!
[horn blows]
[whispers] If this fails
and there is no escape for you...
promise me you will find a man
you trust to kill you softly.
I have already picked a man.
[Danes yelling]
[Finan] Be merciful to me, oh God!
[yelling]
[Finan]
When I am afraid, I will trust in You.
In God whose word I praise.
In God I trust.
- I will not be afraid.
- [mouths]
[yelling]
What can a man do to me?
Nothing.
For you have delivered my soul from death
and my feet from stumbling...
that I may walk before God.
Something isn’t right.
[breathes heavily]
- Die! Die!
- [Danes yell]
- [angry yelling]
- [Brida] No! Wait! Hold back!
[yelling]
[horse neighs]
[horses neighing]
[Uhtred] Now... charge!
[yelling]
With me!
[neighing]
[yelling]
- [man yelling]
- [arrows whistling]
[yelling]
It's a trick! [grunts]
[grunts]
[Cnut grunting]
[groans]
[Cnut] Where is he?
[Brida yells]
[screams]
[grunts]
Give me your hand! Pull!
[grunting]
[arrows whistling]
[grunts]
Uhtred!
Uhtred, I will cut you into pieces,
you murderous coward!
[swords clanging]
[gasps]
[Dane grunts angrily]
[Dane groans]
Father!
[grunts]
No shame in having a Dane atop you,
but, honestly, I've seen prettier.
The ridge, Father!
It's Aethelred!
Can they reach us?
- [sword clang]
- [men yelling]
Charge!
- [Young Uhtred grunts]
- [Dane screams]
Who fights alongside Aethelflaed?
The Mercian fyrds, her husband,
even the Welsh.
Christians united.
And without Wessex to lead them forward.
- [Aethelflaed yells]
- [men grunt]
[Aldhelm grunting]
[grunts and gasps]
[Dane] It’s the Lady Aethelflaed!
- There she is!
- Surround her!
There are too many of them.
[Aldhelm pants]
[Dane] Get her!
[whispers] Aldhelm.
[Aethelflaed sighs]
Withdraw! You will not take her from us!
You do not have the courage.
Aldhelm, you must.
Since you are Alfred's daughter,
I'll let you choose
which of us humps you first.
- Aldhelm, please.
- I can't. I can't.
You Saxons have...
- [Dane yells]
- [Aethelflaed gasps]
[Aldhelm yells]
[yells]
[yells]
[yells]
[grunting]
[yelling and grunting]
Lord King!
- Stay close!
- [groans]
[][groans]
[Dane yells]
[grunting]
[Eardwulf]
Hold fast, men! Hold your lines!
[yells]
[Uhtred] They are fleeing to the forest!
Stop them!
Uhtred!
[roars and grunts]
[groans]
[screams]
- What the...
- [high-pitched buzzing]
[gasps and groans]
[pants and groans]
My Lord! My Lord!
[breathes heavily]
Push on, men... to victory!
[yelling]
[yelling and groaning]
[Cnut] Uhtred!
Finally.
Fight me.
Fight me!
[both grunting]
Murderer!
You killed my firstborn.
You killed my boy! Why?
It was fair revenge for Ragnar!
Ragnar!
Ragnar was weak...
and I needed him to die!
But my son... my son was innocent!
[both grunt]
[Cnut pants]
Brida...
[Cnut grunts and gasps]
Give me your seax!
[gags and gasps]
Give me your seax!
[Cnut groans]
[grunts and groans]
[gasps and coughs]
You sent Aethelwold to kill Ragnar?
Because...
Because we're destined to be together.
You know this.
Please, my love.
[Brida yells angrily]
[Cnut gasps]
[groans]
Your boys live.
The body your man saw was a Mercian,
killed by Danish hands.
- [Cnut] Both... both survive?
- [Uhtred] Both.
But you will not live
to see them grow old.
[Cnut gasps for breath]
[both pant]
You should not have trusted him.
[groans]
[groans and gasps for breath]
- [men shouting]
- [man] Keep up!
[whimpers]
Send me to Valhalla.
[breathes heavily]
They will take you as a prisoner.
That’s worse than death.
Please, I cannot be a slave.
Let me die with honor
here on the battlefield.
You owe me that, Uhtred.
I want to be with Ragnar.
Please, Uhtred.
[softly] Please.
[Rhodri] Take the pagan bitch!
[whimpers]
[Uhtred] Brida.
King Hywel,
you have done all Christians proud.
It is an honor to meet you.
And I am pleased
you were able to make the battle, Lord.
Well, we would not have won
without you and your men.
I am most grateful.
And your generous rewards are appreciated.
Your priest conveyed to me
your kind offer of the spoils of battle.
Of course.
It is the least your bravery deserves.
May it strengthen our new union.
As we are united in faith...
let us be united in prosperity
and security!
[men cheering]
I promise you, we shall feast tonight!
[cheering]
There will be no alliance
and no more favors.
The people of Wealas
do not need Saxon help.
The Lord favored us.
I've just sent Brida to her doom.
- It is battle.
- [pants]
What matters is we both survived
and Mercia is safe.
- [man] My Lord King.
- [man] My Lord.
[man] Sire.
My Lord...
- He dares to walk amongst the fallen?
- Do not.
There has been enough fighting.
Your men need you.
Lady, the triumph is all yours.
You led us to a great victory
they will speak of for years to come.
And I thank you I am alive to see it.
I probably wasn't the man for that task.
Edward, thank you.
If it were not for you,
I would be amongst the dead.
I came despite my better judgment.
I do not take your defiance lightly.
- Yes, but surely it was a great victory.
- With a great loss of many men.
Steapa is dead.
- No.
- Yes.
The man who has stood
since our childhood like a giant oak.
He stood with our father, then with us.
Now he's been taken
in a battle of your making,
sacrificed for your husband's ambition
and for yours.
No, I have no ambition.
You seek to be loved by all...
chronicled for your bravery,
no matter if it costs the blood of men.
- That is not true.
- Yes, it is.
You've chosen Mercia
over the kingdom of Alfred.
I suggest you do not return south
for a long time.
You should not exile me from Winchester.
I fear you would not be welcome there,
Lady.
The widows of these men
will not forgive you easily.
Still, you may receive
adoration in this place.
It may be some compensation.
None of this was done for anything
but love of my country!
Come away from this place, Lord King.
I have been made to look a fool...
unable to reward my own men,
paying tribute to the Welsh.
This will be made right.
What excuses did he make
for his cowardice?
He wanted to avoid bloodshed for his men.
Which created more bloodshed.
- I have to speak with him.
- No!
At least not now.
The Danes are defeated.
Let us just enjoy the peace...
just for one night.
I will do as you ask...
just for one night.
Let us go, take advantage of the chaos.
- He can believe you died in battle.
- No. I have half killed myself fighting.
[pants] I will find him
and I will beg him.
He will never forgive us for what
we have done. It is over for us, brother.
[soldier] Clear a path! Move! Stand aside!
Lord Aethelred is wounded. Fetch a healer!
My lifelong ambition
to take back my birthright
to Bebbanburg has ended in failure.
Beocca!
- He is with God now. He is at peace.
- [sobs]
While I struggle to come to terms
with this devastating loss,
Haesten has revealed the true cause
of Ragnar’s death.
[Haesten] Let me live
and I'll tell you who gave the command.
- Speak.
- Cnut.
But Brida knows nothing
of Cnut’s treachery...
and prepares to ride into battle with him.
When the kings are dead,
we will sit together on Alfred’s throne.
Aethelred, blinded by lust and power,
has foolishly invaded Daneland.
[Eardwulf] Cnut did not sail to Irland.
Haesten gave me false information.
- You must tell Aethelred the truth!
- If I tell him the truth, he will kill me.
[Eadith]
I will do all I can to soften the blow.
Aethelhelm’s influence on Edward
has caused conflict in Winchester.
These are my people.
I will not send them to be slaughtered
while Cnut sets the terms of the battle!
You will take a message to the Welsh King.
Aethelflaed is expecting an army.
We must deliver one.
I have taken Cnut’s sons as my prisoners
and brought them to Aethelflaed...
to be used as bait in the battle
I know is to come.
Destiny is all!
[pants]
The monastery is two miles south.
I am not looking for the monastery.
- Saxons are not welcome here, Father.
- I know.
But I’ve urgent business with King Hywel.
[exhales]
- Are you Saxon?
- Well, I was born a Briton.
You will only find trouble here, Brother.
You will find more than trouble
if you do not let me pass.
[Young Uhtred] Oh, Lord,
grant us the knowledge of your power
when it comes to pass that a man and wife
may bring a child into this world.
They clothe him. They cherish him,
but God alone may know his fate.
These children were in darkness.
- [sobbing]
- Now they are saved.
Bring them the light of your love,
Lord God...
and let them walk as children of light.
Where are they? Why is she not ready?
They mourn the dead.
...than he who considers
before his soul’s departure
how worthy he may be deemed
after his death...
There is no time for this.
[breathes heavily]
They are children, Uhtred.
Sons of Mercia's most revered men.
[sobs softly]
When did children become the cost of war?
[Uhtred] You did all that you could.
Now, come.
They took their heads. [inhales deeply]
All of them.
We must move off
before the Danes know that you are here.
Not until they have been blessed!
- Aethelflaed, please...
- Not until they have been blessed!
[Finan] Danes! The Danes are here, Lord!
- They're heading towards the gates!
- How many?
Too many, Lord!
Stay back, Aethelflaed.
Seeing you will inflame them.
Go! Upstairs now!
- [Finan] They got past the entrance!
- Go. We will hold them off.
[all yelling]
[grunts]
Give me the Lady
and you will not be slaughtered!
Do not even consider it!
- I will not have men murdered in my place!
- I will not see you taken!
You have the word of Cnut!
He only wants Alfred's daughter!
[all grunting]
- Is there another way out?
- No!
- Can we get to the roof?
- We would only get trapped.
- Let me bargain.
- Lady, you are the bargain.
[Aethelflaed] We cannot just let death
come to us. I will not just wait for it.
What are we doing, Lord?
The door will not hold!
- Bring me Cnut's sons.
- Sihtric!
Uhtred, you cannot.
There will be another way.
You must trust me and you must swear
- to me you will stay here. Swear to me!
- Do not do this...
Where is she?
[men grunting]
Kill them all!
- [Uhtred] Enough!
- [silence]
Come and face me.
I have Cnut's sons.
You are lying.
[boys whimper]
Leave this place
or I will cut their throats!
Take a son of Cnut...
every Dane in this land
will see it avenged!
Yes and every Dane will come for you, too.
The blood of his child will be
on your hands.
Do not play games.
Send them down now...
or all the men here will be killed.
Leave this place
or I will cut off their heads!
You harm them and every Saxon here dies!
[Young Cnut] No!
- [Young Cnut screams]
- [Esgar] No!
[boys sob and scream]
- [sword thuds]
- [screaming stops]
[Uhtred grunts]
No! [sobs]
[Esgar] No!
[Uhtred] Leave!
Or I will kill the other one also!
Go!
Now... go!
No!
- [Esgar sobs]
- Stay down. Look! Your brother’s alive.
Cnut will hunt us as soon as he gets word
I killed his boy.
- Surely we just show that they are alive?
- Danes do not work like that.
We're now headed for battle.
What about the boys?
Cut them free and let them run.
They’ve served their purpose.
And was the purpose
to enrage a Danish army?
It bought us time
and allowed us to escape with our lives.
Fate wants to drag us
to fight for the Saxons.
[laughs] Yes. It was definitely fate
that dragged us into all of this.
Uhtred had nothing to do with it.
I do not seek battles.
Battles just seem to seek me.
[Finan chuckles]
[Uhtred] But you are right,
I have unleashed a storm.
Cnut will find us. This is now our fight.
[Finan] It was our fight from the moment
you took those boys from Haesten, Lord.
The men would be forgiven
for abandoning me.
They like an adventure
and they’re loyal to a good leader.
As are you.
Which is the fastest road to Tettenhall?
[pants]
Do not fear the beast. He’s been fed.
[men chuckle]
- Does he like strangers?
- Only when cooked.
[Hywel and men laugh]
You are from the boy king in Wessex?
Why do you come crawling before us?
Wessex would like to strike a bargain.
I do not make treaties with Saxons.
Nevertheless, we have an offer.
There is concern in Wessex about Cnut
and his incursion into Mercia.
Alfred's actions have bitten Edward
on the arse. So?
Cnut's army is slaughtering
all in their path.
You are not friends to us, Father Pyrlig.
Why should any of this concern me?
Because it brings a dangerous heathen
to your border.
And yet, our borders are strong...
because we’ve been repelling Saxons
for years.
[men laugh]
As you know, Alfred wanted
all the Christian kingdoms to unite.
Yes, under his banner,
so we could all bow to him.
He wanted to conquer, not unite the faith.
Nevertheless that faith
is now under threat.
We follow the same one God
and share a common enemy.
You know that, Lord King.
And you know to repel Cnut now
will save you bloodshed later, so,
it is a bargain that works for both of us.
[dog grunts]
What are Edward's plans?
Mercians are gathering at Tettenhall.
There are... plans
for Wessex to join them.
And what would I get in return,
in this holy war against the pagans?
And do not tell me recompense in heaven.
Celestial rewards do not build fortresses.
What is it you want?
The spoils of battle, all of them,
every last piece of Danish silver.
That is not a promise
I have the authority to make.
You are here on Edward's orders,
you must have his authority.
Do I have your promise, Father Pyrlig?
Let him swear upon the book.
[indistinct chattering in background]
Eardwulf!
What news of our troops in Lindcylne?
The settlements that surround it
are resisting, Lord, but we will prevail.
I should hope so.
I want all of East Anglia
or our bargain does not hold.
It would be a shame
for your family to go unrewarded.
After so much effort!
He’s like a pig rolling in shit.
[chuckles]
Ask me nothing of the detail.
It was a favor to you, not to him.
It is enough that humping me
has lifted his spirits.
So, you must tell him
the news from Mercia.
- Perhaps I should delay...
- You cannot put it off.
I know you are afraid,
but I have bought us some goodwill.
- I'm not afraid. I'm just...
- You are afraid and so am I.
But I have done my part, brother.
Now you do yours.
[exhales slowly]
[both grunt]
[Steapa chuckles]
[yelling and grunting]
- [both pant]
- [chuckles]
- Do not let me win, Steapa.
- Lord, I am not.
What has happened?
The settlements around Lindcylne
have capitulated.
If you want to see some hands,
it can be arranged.
[chuckles]
And what’s the bad news?
You are clearly waiting
to deliver bad news.
News has come from Edward, Lord King.
I regret to tell you
that Cnut's armies have raided Mercia
and taken your palace at Aegelesburg.
Is this the same Cnut that you told me
was heading to Irland...
to help some feral cousin?
Yes, Lord.
Because of whom
I left my kingdom undefended?
And now it is in ruins?
There was no reason to mistrust
the information.
My spy in the Danish camp was certain.
He swore it was true.
- Haesten is a close ally of...
- Did you say Haesten?
- Yes, Lord. He's a close...
- I know who he is!
He is well known to be a liar!
You are nothing but a rat's turd,
who should never have been trusted
with anything more than an ax!
[breathes heavily]
I pitied you...
gave your whore of a sister the chance
to restore your family and this...
is how you repay me.
Only a fool would have trusted Haesten.
- I know, but I've made a plan to retake...
- My reputation will be ripped to shreds!
We’ve had word from Lady Aethelflaed.
She will be at Tettenhall,
where she plans to lure Cnut.
So now my wife is heading to battle
before me...
so that she can be revered
as the savior of my kingdom?
How in the name of God
is that supposed to cheer me?
I'm just saying that there is a plan.
Lord, there is advantage in this,
if you play it right,
a chance to return to Mercia
as the avenging hero.
[breathes heavily]
Can the men get here by morning?
Uh, yes, Lord. I can send orders
for them to return immediately.
- This could be your greatest triumph...
- You are finished, Eardwulf!
Please do not execute me.
You will pray for execution.
When we return to Aegelesburg,
I will publicly castrate you.
And your family will never prosper
and your sister will never leave my bed.
[breathes heavily]
[door opens]
Why have you sent Father Pyrlig to Wealas?
Do not lie to me, Mother. We have spies
in every court from here to Rome!
Hywel has Danes,
rampaging near his borders.
It is only right for Pyrlig
to alert him to it.
Have you asked Hywel for help?
That is unforgiveable.
I had to do something!
Your sister has thrown herself
into the lion's mouth.
I challenge any mother to act differently.
You are not just any mother.
You are the mother of a king.
Cnut wants us to march on his terms.
It is a trap you have walked into.
But Hywel is a Christian,
and God wants us to be united.
Hywel serves no one but his own people.
In going to him,
you have made Wessex look divided.
Cnut will hear of it
and think we are weak!
Yes, but I want my daughter safe.
Then you should have persuaded her
to stay in Wessex.
My men would not forgive me for chasing
my sister into a hopeless battle.
And yet you know they'll also revile you
for letting her die.
Like it or not,
Aethelflaed has forced your hand.
So I trade the life of Wessex soldiers
for my own honor?
That is what soldiers are there for,
to do the King's bidding...
Yes, but not the bidding
of the King's mother.
Besides, it is too late.
Aethelflaed's fyrds are marching.
You had word of that and did not tell me?
You were elsewhere, making other plans.
If you wanted men to speak your name
in awe,
believe me, this was not the way.
[door closes]
Lord.
I want all of these defenses
finished by sunset.
- Yes, My Lord.
- Good.
We are so close, Brida...
to everything we ever wanted.
Lands for our people to settle in
for generations.
Cnut?
Yes.
- There’s something...
- Ah. It’s Bjorgulf,
returning with Alfred's little bitch.
Where is Aethelflaed?
She escaped.
How did this happen?
Tell us.
Uhtred Ragnarson is in Aegelesburg.
He had your sons with him.
Haesten appears to have traded them
for his life.
Tell me that my sons live.
[breathes heavily]
I will not harm you.
Just tell me the news.
Uhtred beheaded your eldest son.
He would have killed Esgar
had we not left.
[yells angrily] No! Why? Why?
[groans and yells]
I want Uhtred Ragnarson taken immediately!
- No.
- No one sleeps until he is found!
No! This will be paid for in blood,
but we cannot let it distract us.
Avenging my child is not a distraction!
Jackdaw!
Cnut, I share your grief and your anger.
The gods know I do.
Please... do not let Uhtred lure you
into a fight. He's not the priority.
He killed my firstborn
And Esgar is still with him!
- If I have no heir, all of this...
- Cnut.
- All of this is for nothing!
- Cnut.
Do not give up our battle position!
It does not matter where we fight!
We have a thousand warriors!
- Jackdaw! Prepare the men to march!
- I will.
And send men ahead to find them!
We will follow... now!
- Cnut...
- Leave me!
This way is foolishness, Cnut!
[Cnut] You find him, Jackdaw!
You got a numb arse there?
You get used to a numb arse
kneeling through church all day.
It’s a damp arse that kills you.
[chuckles]
What do you think will happen
when we face the Danes?
A numb arse will be the least
of our problems.
- We're good fighters.
- When we are all fit to fight.
I have fought alongside your father
for a while now.
And he tends to come up with something...
at the last minute.
And many men are loyal to Aethelflaed,
even at their own cost.
And no doubt the pair of them
are devising a battle plan to save us all.
[breathing heavily]
[panting and kissing]
[softly] Not here. Not with them so close.
You would deny yourself
the day before a fight?
It gives me strength.
What if you die on the battlefield?
I will not die, because God favors
those with goodness in their hearts.
Maybe.
I believe the gods play with us.
And we do not know their reasons
or what is destined for us.
But tonight, I will believe
what you believe.
I thought your destiny was Bebbanburg.
I thought that.
For so long.
But now I ask myself why I failed there.
I know there is a plan for me,
yet I do not know what it is.
Only that it leads me to you.
And Finan is right. I chose to be here,
so, that must mean something.
It means that you care for the fate
of Mercia and the Saxons.
Now you sound like your father.
[laughs]
He only used me for his own wishes.
Yes, he was a wise man,
and I tried to follow in his path.
So, perhaps then,
I, too, should only use you for my wishes.
Edward...
come and rest.
God is guiding you. I know it.
[footsteps approaching]
Do not turn away from all of your family.
I know your son would like to see you.
He often speaks fondly of you.
A child without its father's guidance
will grow weak.
Which is why I endeavor
to seek the Lord's help.
So if you would leave me in peace.
[door opens and closes]
There's no point disturbing him.
He is still deep in prayer.
He does not need divine guidance.
He just needs to listen to those of us
that know the cost of battle.
His mother’s been advising him.
Yes. I’m afraid that’s not all
she’s been doing.
Lady Aelswith was seen visiting
Edward's bastard at the monastery.
I am told she arranged a reunion
between the boy and his mother.
Why? What business has she showing
kindness to a whore and her offspring?
I do not know.
But a rumor persists that their marriage
was legitimate.
A false rumor.
But still one that could endanger my son,
when the time comes.
[sobs and sighs]
I trust you are keeping
your husband satisfied.
Another son would strengthen our position.
I try to, Father, but he is not
as attentive as he once was.
The matters of Kingship weigh heavy
on him.
Then you must try harder...
because it is clear that Lady Aelswith
is following a plan of her own.
Then you must do something to stop her,
before she turns the King from me
and my son!
I will do what I must. Trust me.
I have not come this far to be thwarted
by a bitter widow.
[men yelling]
[Finan] Um...
Is this the place?
Yes.
I'm not sure I can see Edward's camp.
I’m not sure I can see anyone.
He will be here.
[horses whinnying]
I sent word
that the fyrds should gather in the woods.
I will ready them for battle
before my brother arrives.
[men yelling indistinctly]
[Finan] Lord.
[Finan whistles] Men!
- [Uhtred] That is not a fyrd.
- And they are not Mercian.
You do not look like Christians.
We are men from Wealas,
loyal to King Hywel.
Are you an ally or an enemy of Mercia?
We are here to fight Cnut, Lady.
And best The Dane as we have bested
the Saxon for so many years.
And the fyrds?
I put them under the command
of the little bald priest.
I am not bald! I'm certainly not little!
Father Pyrlig! I do not understand?
He rode to Wealas
to beg King Hywel for his army.
[softly] Edward sent him to find allies.
I knew he would not abandon me!
No, Lady. It was your mother who sent me.
I have had no word from the King.
Then we fight with what we have.
- [Uhtred] It’s good to see you, Pyrlig.
- You, too, Lord Uhtred.
- [chuckling]
- [Pyrlig] Finan! Sihtric!
- Father Pyrlig!
- It’s good to see you are alive.
Even with these Welshmen,
we may not be enough.
I know you have summoned Cnut,
but you can still turn away with honor.
No one would condemn you
for leaving an unfair fight.
I do not fight for honor, Uhtred.
I fight because
someone must make a stand against Cnut...
even though I am forbidden.
As a sister, I am defiant,
but as a daughter of Alfred,
I am just doing my duty.
Even if it wasn’t made for me,
I can't blindly follow the King's command.
That is something I understand.
Yet I cannot believe he has left me
to face this without him.
I thought, somehow,
he would find it in his heart.
What do I tell my men?
[sighs]
Tell them your brother is close behind us.
They must believe we have a chance.
We've heard from Uhtred
and the Lady Aethelflaed.
Where are they?
They’re waiting for you
at a place called Tettenhall.
We go?
It mocks the gods to give away
the advantage!
I will have my revenge.
[warriors bang shields rhythmically]
There are worse places to defend.
With a few more men,
we would stand a chance.
Follow me.
[grunting]
[grunts]
It is prepared.
Will it work?
I do not know.
[Uhtred] They're coming.
Get into position!
[Rhodri] Follow me!
Mercians to the woods!
To the woods!
[horn blows]
[whispers] If this fails
and there is no escape for you...
promise me you will find a man
you trust to kill you softly.
I have already picked a man.
[Danes yelling]
[Finan] Be merciful to me, oh God!
[yelling]
[Finan]
When I am afraid, I will trust in You.
In God whose word I praise.
In God I trust.
- I will not be afraid.
- [mouths]
[yelling]
What can a man do to me?
Nothing.
For you have delivered my soul from death
and my feet from stumbling...
that I may walk before God.
Something isn’t right.
[breathes heavily]
- Die! Die!
- [Danes yell]
- [angry yelling]
- [Brida] No! Wait! Hold back!
[yelling]
[horse neighs]
[horses neighing]
[Uhtred] Now... charge!
[yelling]
With me!
[neighing]
[yelling]
- [man yelling]
- [arrows whistling]
[yelling]
It's a trick! [grunts]
[grunts]
[Cnut grunting]
[groans]
[Cnut] Where is he?
[Brida yells]
[screams]
[grunts]
Give me your hand! Pull!
[grunting]
[arrows whistling]
[grunts]
Uhtred!
Uhtred, I will cut you into pieces,
you murderous coward!
[swords clanging]
[gasps]
[Dane grunts angrily]
[Dane groans]
Father!
[grunts]
No shame in having a Dane atop you,
but, honestly, I've seen prettier.
The ridge, Father!
It's Aethelred!
Can they reach us?
- [sword clang]
- [men yelling]
Charge!
- [Young Uhtred grunts]
- [Dane screams]
Who fights alongside Aethelflaed?
The Mercian fyrds, her husband,
even the Welsh.
Christians united.
And without Wessex to lead them forward.
- [Aethelflaed yells]
- [men grunt]
[Aldhelm grunting]
[grunts and gasps]
[Dane] It’s the Lady Aethelflaed!
- There she is!
- Surround her!
There are too many of them.
[Aldhelm pants]
[Dane] Get her!
[whispers] Aldhelm.
[Aethelflaed sighs]
Withdraw! You will not take her from us!
You do not have the courage.
Aldhelm, you must.
Since you are Alfred's daughter,
I'll let you choose
which of us humps you first.
- Aldhelm, please.
- I can't. I can't.
You Saxons have...
- [Dane yells]
- [Aethelflaed gasps]
[Aldhelm yells]
[yells]
[yells]
[yells]
[grunting]
[yelling and grunting]
Lord King!
- Stay close!
- [groans]
[][groans]
[Dane yells]
[grunting]
[Eardwulf]
Hold fast, men! Hold your lines!
[yells]
[Uhtred] They are fleeing to the forest!
Stop them!
Uhtred!
[roars and grunts]
[groans]
[screams]
- What the...
- [high-pitched buzzing]
[gasps and groans]
[pants and groans]
My Lord! My Lord!
[breathes heavily]
Push on, men... to victory!
[yelling]
[yelling and groaning]
[Cnut] Uhtred!
Finally.
Fight me.
Fight me!
[both grunting]
Murderer!
You killed my firstborn.
You killed my boy! Why?
It was fair revenge for Ragnar!
Ragnar!
Ragnar was weak...
and I needed him to die!
But my son... my son was innocent!
[both grunt]
[Cnut pants]
Brida...
[Cnut grunts and gasps]
Give me your seax!
[gags and gasps]
Give me your seax!
[Cnut groans]
[grunts and groans]
[gasps and coughs]
You sent Aethelwold to kill Ragnar?
Because...
Because we're destined to be together.
You know this.
Please, my love.
[Brida yells angrily]
[Cnut gasps]
[groans]
Your boys live.
The body your man saw was a Mercian,
killed by Danish hands.
- [Cnut] Both... both survive?
- [Uhtred] Both.
But you will not live
to see them grow old.
[Cnut gasps for breath]
[both pant]
You should not have trusted him.
[groans]
[groans and gasps for breath]
- [men shouting]
- [man] Keep up!
[whimpers]
Send me to Valhalla.
[breathes heavily]
They will take you as a prisoner.
That’s worse than death.
Please, I cannot be a slave.
Let me die with honor
here on the battlefield.
You owe me that, Uhtred.
I want to be with Ragnar.
Please, Uhtred.
[softly] Please.
[Rhodri] Take the pagan bitch!
[whimpers]
[Uhtred] Brida.
King Hywel,
you have done all Christians proud.
It is an honor to meet you.
And I am pleased
you were able to make the battle, Lord.
Well, we would not have won
without you and your men.
I am most grateful.
And your generous rewards are appreciated.
Your priest conveyed to me
your kind offer of the spoils of battle.
Of course.
It is the least your bravery deserves.
May it strengthen our new union.
As we are united in faith...
let us be united in prosperity
and security!
[men cheering]
I promise you, we shall feast tonight!
[cheering]
There will be no alliance
and no more favors.
The people of Wealas
do not need Saxon help.
The Lord favored us.
I've just sent Brida to her doom.
- It is battle.
- [pants]
What matters is we both survived
and Mercia is safe.
- [man] My Lord King.
- [man] My Lord.
[man] Sire.
My Lord...
- He dares to walk amongst the fallen?
- Do not.
There has been enough fighting.
Your men need you.
Lady, the triumph is all yours.
You led us to a great victory
they will speak of for years to come.
And I thank you I am alive to see it.
I probably wasn't the man for that task.
Edward, thank you.
If it were not for you,
I would be amongst the dead.
I came despite my better judgment.
I do not take your defiance lightly.
- Yes, but surely it was a great victory.
- With a great loss of many men.
Steapa is dead.
- No.
- Yes.
The man who has stood
since our childhood like a giant oak.
He stood with our father, then with us.
Now he's been taken
in a battle of your making,
sacrificed for your husband's ambition
and for yours.
No, I have no ambition.
You seek to be loved by all...
chronicled for your bravery,
no matter if it costs the blood of men.
- That is not true.
- Yes, it is.
You've chosen Mercia
over the kingdom of Alfred.
I suggest you do not return south
for a long time.
You should not exile me from Winchester.
I fear you would not be welcome there,
Lady.
The widows of these men
will not forgive you easily.
Still, you may receive
adoration in this place.
It may be some compensation.
None of this was done for anything
but love of my country!
Come away from this place, Lord King.
I have been made to look a fool...
unable to reward my own men,
paying tribute to the Welsh.
This will be made right.
What excuses did he make
for his cowardice?
He wanted to avoid bloodshed for his men.
Which created more bloodshed.
- I have to speak with him.
- No!
At least not now.
The Danes are defeated.
Let us just enjoy the peace...
just for one night.
I will do as you ask...
just for one night.
Let us go, take advantage of the chaos.
- He can believe you died in battle.
- No. I have half killed myself fighting.
[pants] I will find him
and I will beg him.
He will never forgive us for what
we have done. It is over for us, brother.
[soldier] Clear a path! Move! Stand aside!
Lord Aethelred is wounded. Fetch a healer!