Harold's depleted English forces rush to meet William's assault on the south coast. The resulting brutal battle's outcome is unpredictable.

Sacrifices have to be made when Harold strikes against a Viking invader and William seeks a fleet. Edith fears for the future, while Matilda moves to secure hers.

Ambition drives William and Harold to each seek costly alliances, against the advice of their womenfolk, to enhance their chances of winning the crown.

Harold and Edith risk their lives to bargain with William but get a guarded reception. Harold's siblings face hardships trying to secure their family's future.

Crowned heads are endangered as Harold fights for his family's rights and William tracks his royal foe.

Harold risks returning to Wessex for his wife, while William plots against Henry in France as home truths compromise family ties.

Threatened by those in power in France and England, William and Harold each face grave danger, their families in peril. Refuge in Flanders offers hope for new mother Matilda, while vengeful Lady Emma hounds the Godwins.

In the mid-11th century, noblemen Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy are exploited as pawns in royal plots on both side of the Channel. The coronation of King Edward in England leads to the pair's first encounter, while Harold warns his father, Earl Godwin, of a rival's treachery – but he is ignored.