Before we start, just a quick warning that this episode contains descriptions of violence

or sexual content that may not be suitable for all listeners.

A night on horseback gallops towards the city of Winchester in southern England.

He's filthy from a long day in the saddle.

The dust kicked up by his horse's thundering hooves has mingled with the sweat on his face,

forming dirty streaks.

Sea salt from his recent crossing of the English Channel has stiffened his hair and cracked

his lips.

And he's in pain.

There was a big crush to board the ship, and his leg was badly injured.

But none of that slows him down.

This night is William Marshall, and he considers himself the most chivalrous man alive.

He has always prided himself on doing his duty under any circumstances.

No questions asked.

Which is just as well, because he's come to Winchester to perform one of the most solemn

tasks imaginable.

The year is 1189.

Days ago, Marshall was in France, where he witnessed a great king die.

Shortly after that, he watched the king's eldest son and heir say a curt goodbye to his

father's corpse.

And now, he's in England, where he's been sent to inform the old king's wife that she's

a widow.

...