Isabel has written a letter to the king asking him to respect her decision.
She swears loyalty until death, as she did in Guisando.
But the king is angry.
You can't meet Fernando at Aragon.
It would be impossible for Fernando to cross the border unnoticed.
If I can't go to Aragon and he can't come to Castile, what's the solution?
Cárdenas will go to the Aragonese court.
- I thought you were in Catalonia. - So does everyone else.
Except my father, Peralta, and the men who will accompany me to Castile.
I made it very clear that no one else know how I'm getting there.
Where is he then?
I don't know, Your Majesty. But allow me to say this.
Send troops to Valladolid before it's too late.
Don't you think I have enough fronts to cover already?
By God, watch the borders! You only have to stop one man!
I fear the consummation, Father.
You must give in to your husband. You're to become his woman.
And you must agree to his marriage rights every time he asks to fulfill them.
I don't care how proud or determined she is.
As my wife, she'll do as I say.
If we don't stop this wedding, soon none of us will be who we are.
I have no luck with Rome. Nothing I've requested has been granted.
But this time you must get the bull signed.
- What is the safest path? - Through the Port of Bigornia.
Between Berdejo and Gomara.
We're the Archbishop of Toledo's men.
So you don't need to take out your weapons.
You only had to prevent one man from crossing our border and you failed!
- I told you to send troops to Valladolid. - And I said no!
Isabel won't marry King Alfonso.
I see.
- That's why I dare ask-- - I'll think about it.
It couldn't have been done without you. I owe you so much.
Your future and that of Castile will be golden with the Lord's help.
And I want to know if I'm in or out of that future.
In it.
What I'll get is more than anything we've ever dreamed.
I'll be the king without having to sit on the throne.
That's him.
Your Highness, this is Fernando of Aragon. Your Majesty, this is Isabel of Castile.
That marriage won't happen. Ever.
But you won't be the one stopping it. It'll be the Holy Father.
Enrique is a key ally of Rome.
I'm sorry, but there is no bull.
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Isabel
We'll celebrate the wedding in the hall of Vivero Palace at sunset.
At night we'll have a grand banquet.
With hundreds of guests?
Yes, nobles and dignitaries and people of varying status.
I've sent word all throughout Castile.
This is a wedding for a princess and a king. The festivities must match the occasion.
And for the people?
They'll celebrate with popular games.
Isn't this a big expense, Carrillo?
Don't think about that now, Your Highness.
Perhaps we should. Aragon's coffers can't pay for parties.
If only I could tell you about ours.
You shouldn't worry.
The groom and the bride should be getting to know each other better.
Chacón, Cárdenas, and I will handle it.
In that case...
let's go take a walk.
- Have a nice morning. - Thank you.
Is something wrong?
Don't you think this is quite a big expense?
Yes, and Aragon is not fulfilling its financial obligations.
Relax, gentlemen, relax.
The King of Aragon and I agreed that I would take care of the expenses.
And if need be, I'll ask a banker in Toledo for a loan.
The important thing is for Enrique to see our strength.
The more nobles show up, the better we'll see who supports us.
You seem worried.
It shows that much?
Calm down. You're the prettiest worried woman I've ever met.
Don Fernando of Aragon!
- Who is it? - Someone who shouldn't be here.
Alonso Fernandez de Palencia, the court chronicler.
A pleasure meeting you, Your Majesty.
From which court?
Enrique's? He can't be too happy about our wedding.
I'm not Enrique's chronicler, I'm yours.
We must look to the future, and there are only two names there.
Fernando and Isabel.
I'm sorry, Palencia, but Fernando and I have matters to which we must attend.
Of course, forgive me.
He seems loyal and eager.
He won't be a challenge, I assure you.
Any news from Rome?
Not yet, Your Majesty. Perhaps we should plan other strategies.
- Like what, Pacheco? - France.
- I could-- - Enough!
Pacheco.
Rome will refuse Isabel's request and there will be no wedding.
- But Your Majesty-- - For once, forget about plotting!
Your plans have only made fools of ourselves in front of Portugal and France.
We only have Rome left.
Let's wait for the pope's decision.
I only ask for one thing right now.
Don't do anything.
Understand?
I heard your wife is ill.
That's right, Your Majesty.
Go to her.
You have more to do there than here.
I'll send my best physician to see her.
Thank you.
He will be welcomed at my house.
Watch Pacheco, Cabrera.
See how excessive ambition can end a person.
And learn from it.
Don't you miss your home?
Very much.
But there are duties to attend.
And don't speak of Aragon as though it were only mine.
It will be yours too when we're married.
As Castile will be yours.
And you? Do you miss anything?
Of course.
Arévalo, my mother, my friend Beatriz...
my brother Alfonso.
You're braver than many men.
You refused to marry someone you didn't want.
And you defend Castile, as I do Aragon.
We're very much alike, Isabel.
- Even our lives have been similar. - What are you talking about?
I also fought my older brother for the rights he wanted to take from my father and me.
The same blood runs through our veins.
My father wanted to arrange our marriage when we were three.
Can you imagine if he had succeeded?
How long we would have been married by now!
Finally! Finally a smile!
I must go back.
Isabel!
She needs me. My daughter needs me.
My Isabel will marry alone.
My husband is there, Cárdenas is there...
she won't lack any support.
Perhaps not as a princess...
but as a woman she'll need another kind of support.
You know this very well.
I want you to go to Valladolid.
My daughter needs advice.
Wouldn't it be better if you went? You're her mother.
No.
You know my health won't let me.
Besides, if I went...
who would look after Alfonso?
The king will send his own physician.
He's an expert.
I beg you, I don't want to see any more physicians.
- You don't look well. - Enrique is turning on me.
I always said this would happen some day.
He's stubborn.
He thinks that Rome will prevent Isabel's wedding.
As if that could stop the coming storm.
I assume you're already planning something as a way out.
Yes, but he won't listen to me.
I gave Cardinal Yufrá a letter to give to King Louis of France.
I did it on my own, in secret.
The only solution is to marry Juana...
the daughter of the king, to the Duke of Guyenne.
Have France on our side.
Always plotting something.
That's how we amassed our fortune.
What good has it done?
We haven't even enjoyed an outing together lately.
When you're better.
There won't be any more outings, Juan.
It's too late.
You complained about Don Álvaro de Luna's ambition.
Now you're making the same mistake.
Be careful.
Don't lose your head like he did.
Two thousand guests.
Everyone who was anyone in Castile were witnesses of--
Excuse me, Palencia, but there won't be that many guests.
Let's say three thousand then.
It will lend grandeur to the ceremony
and those who read my chronicles in the future will believe it all.
Ultimately they won't be here to count the number of guests.
I love your way of retelling history and recounting the number of guests.
- Go on. - Three thousand guests.
Castile's highest nobility witnessed the birth of a new era...
thanks to the support of Don Alfonso Carrillo...
the Archbishop of Toledo and the High Chancellor of Castile.
A new dawn enlightens Castile with the lives of Fernando and Isabel.
- Aragon and Castile join forces. - Excuse me.
You have a visitor.
- Does anyone know he's here? - No, Monsignor.
Good, leave us alone.
- Did the pope grant the bull? - No.
There's no bull.
I knew he wouldn't give it! I knew it!
It was to be expected.
The pope doesn't want trouble with Castile, France, or Portugal.
I know. Now Isabel needs to see reason.
Going against the pope would be too much for her.
And a huge mistake, if I may say so.
Explain yourself.
What makes her worthy of the crown?
She's doing the same thing that you were accused of doing in Guisando.
Marrying without a bull.
As you did with Doña Juana of Avis.
This is true.
I'd love to see Carrillo's face right now.
Damn it! This has all been a complete waste with you and the pope!
- You knew it would be difficult. - But necessary!
Difficult but necessary, Véneris!
Keep in mind that he issued a bull for Isabel to marry Alfonso of Portugal.
And France asked for one so she could marry the Duke of Guyenne.
He can't give three bulls to one princess.
Well, he should!
Because she's marrying Fernando, not anyone else!
And Pope Paulo isn't against it.
He's given me his spoken permission for them to marry.
And he's waiting to sign the bull at the right time.
Words! Words are blown away by the wind!
Do you know what the king will do with our secret bull? Laugh in our faces!
This pope doesn't give an inch.
If it goes wrong, he'll boast about not having granted us a bull.
And if we win, he'll proclaim that he granted you a spoken bull.
If Christ was crucified again, he'd wash his hands like Pilate did.
- That's blasphemy! - And not granting us a bull is a disgrace!
He'll never find a queen as faithful to Christ as Isabel. Never!
And what is he doing to help her? Nothing!
- I'll talk to the couple. - Don't even think about it.
No one must know anything.
What shall we do?
Come with me.
You don't look well. Did you not sleep well again?
No, I didn't sleep well.
Is there a problem, Isabel?
You would hear from me if there were.
Where's Carrillo?
He's disappeared for the day.
One of his servants said he went speak to carpenters about tables
and to beef farmers to get meat for the banquet.
Will he try on the groom's suit as well?
It sounds as though he's the one getting married.
Be kind, Isabel. He's fought a lot to get here.
Yes, but he's also making all the decisions.
The wedding expenses, the relationship with Rome of which we know nothing.
And Palencia. What's that man doing here?
Carrillo asked him to write about the wedding.
Kings need chroniclers so that the people can hear about their deeds.
And Pacheco will surely start talking against you.
Carrillo thinks that Palencia will defend you better than anyone.
Because he's as deceitful as Pacheco?
It could be. But remember that Palencia supported your brother Alfonso.
And I must remind you that in Segovia, Palencia stole the chronicles for Enrique.
If it hadn't been for Alfonso, Enrique would have been executed.
I promise to watch Palencia closely, Your Highness.
Get his notes too. I want to read them.
Isabel, besides these matters...
is there something else you want to tell me?
No.
My lady, the first wedding guest is here.
Clara!
- Was it you? - Your mother sent me.
You know she doesn't like not being obeyed.
We can't compromise the pope.
Don't worry.
Pío II will have signed on May 1464.
- Three months before his death. - May he rest in peace.
I told Isabel we had this bull validated by the current pope.
- Did you need to lie? - Very much so.
Without that lie, Isabel would have never agreed to the wedding.
And now she'd be in Paris with the Duke of Guyenne.
I expected you to get a new one to tell her it's proof of Rome's support for our cause.
But when there's no fresh bread, you must eat stale loaves.
This one looks great.
Do you think Isabel will agree if she finds out about this?
I'll take care that she does.
When I met her, she was a frightened little girl.
I made the Isabel you see now, as God made man out of clay.
And if I choose, she'll be clay again.
We have the bull.
My men will come here tomorrow at noon to escort you to the palace.
Remember you come from Rome bearing good news.
- There's no bull from Rome then? - No, Your Excellency.
Leave.
Father, do you have a moment?
What is it, my daughter?
I sent Diego a letter to tell him that Mother is doing worse.
It's best if we're all together.
Well done.
It must be nice having kids.
Please, Beatriz, I'm not in the mood for riddles.
Tell me what you want to say.
- I'm scared. - Of what, darling?
Of dying alone after being rejected by Fernando.
I'll get you a husband as soon I can.
And if I'm rejected again?
- And if you fall and can't use me? - Enough, enough!
I see you've been talking to your mother.
Do you think this is the right time to look for a suitor?
The king is turning his back on me.
The Mendozas don't even call for me to join them.
And the jerks think it will all work out because Isabel doesn't have a bull!
As you can see, I have bigger troubles than your wedding!
Forgive me.
I thought your biggest problem was that Mother is dying.
Beatriz, Beatriz!
- What is he doing here? - He's not waiting for me, that's for sure.
Isabel, I wanted to talk with you.
Forgive me for waiting here, but I couldn't find you all day.
Isabel, I'll go get your bed ready.
I'm listening.
I don't know what's wrong with you.
I assume wedding jitters have gotten you feeling quite nervous.
Whatever it is...
I want to set something straight.
I thought I wouldn't be lucky enough to marry...
someone I really liked.
But I'm glad I was wrong.
Because I like you, Isabel.
I like you a lot.
And you?
Do you like me?
Good night.
Isabel, you can't always run from him.
Very soon he'll be your husband.
And one day, you'll have to please him.
- That depends. - On what?
On the day. I have it all under control.
I don't understand you.
During Lent and Advent, you can't please your husband.
Or on other observed festivities or vigils.
Or on Mondays in honor of the holy departed...
or on Thursdays in honor of the Last Supper, or on Fridays in remembrance of the crucifixion.
Or on Saturdays in honor of the Holy Virgin.
Or on Sundays in remembrance of Christ's resurrection.
What about Tuesdays and Wednesdays?
Only if they're not between Easter and Pentecost.
Or 40 days after Christmas...
Or three days before receiving a sacrament.
My girl!
With this calendar when will you ever have children?
This is what the Church dictates.
There are matters between a husband and wife in which the Church has no say.
Tell me one.
Attraction between a man and a woman existed before the first pope.
Isabel, are you attracted to Fernando?
Yes, very much.
And may God forgive me.
Relax, God has tougher things to forgive.
I see you can't sleep tonight either.
- No, not really, sir. - Come with me.
I need your advice.
Forgive me, but there are wiser people here to offer advice.
I want yours.
And you should give it to me.
Let me remind you that sooner or later, I'll be your king.
- Good night. - Good night.
You can't sleep.
I haven't slept in days.
What worries you?
Isabel is too nervous.
Don't worry. Leave Isabel to me.
Some things are better left discussed between women.
What else is keeping you awake?
Carrillo and his constant demands. He doesn't ask or consult.
I know we wouldn't be here without him, but...
- if he keeps acting like this... - You'll know how to handle him.
I hope so.
And the papal bull hasn't arrived yet.
I fear Isabel will change her mind.
We need to see this wedding to its end.
- Whatever it takes. - And you will.
Now stop thinking about your troubles and relax.
Did you know there are only 37 days in a year
when a couple can be together without offending the Lord?
- What are you saying? - That's what the Church says.
I counted them.
And it turns out we're in October.
We're really behind.
I'll be honest.
Since I've arrived, I've had no one with whom to share my thoughts.
Carrillo is too interested in power.
Chacón too occupied in controlling him, and Cárdenas too concerned in obeying Chacón.
The rest are women.
And I don't visit priests very often.
So I only have you as someone to whom I can confide my worries.
- I appreciate the confidence. - And I'd appreciate yours.
Tell me about you.
There's not much to tell. I'm just a soldier.
- You're a king. - A king is still a man, I assure you.
Just as a soldier is.
A king can be unhappy for no reason, and a man always has a reason to be unhappy.
What is the reason for your unhappiness?
Come on, Gonzalo, I know when a man suffers from love.
And you do.
Who is the woman who's captured your heart?
She's far.
Far away from me.
She stayed in Córdoba when I came here almost four years ago.
That's a long time.
Do you want my advice?
Forget her. Find joy and pleasure with others.
A nail gets another nail out.
- It's not that simple. - Because you haven't tried it.
A woman makes you forget another one, believe me.
Unless she's your wife and your children's mother, then it won't.
In that case, she's sacred.
As Isabel will be for me.
But I don't know how to reach her. She avoids me.
I swear I've never met such resistance from a woman.
I want to know what to do to have her by my side.
To make her happy in every way.
Never make a promise you won't be able to keep.
I even saw her argue with her brother over his weak spirit.
And she loved her brother like her own life.
If she's by your side, she'll never fail you.
Go against her, and she'll be your worst enemy.
That's certainly good to know.
- What else? - Respect her faith in God.
And love Castile.
Love Castile because she'll be as grateful as if you loved her.
It's finally here.
Monsignor.
Thanks to Antonio Yacomo de Véneris, we've managed it so that Rome
will support the bull granted to Prince Fernando by Pío II.
This is the bull that his father, Juan II of Aragon, asked for many years ago...
so that at 18 he would be able to marry a princess, a cousin three times removed.
You were just a kid, so you may not remember.
And what does Paulo II say of this outdated bull?
He accepts it, of course.
I've told you that no pope goes against a former one.
I understand, but Paulo II allowed me to marry Portugal's king.
Is he okay with my having another fiancé?
You're looking for more obstacles to the wedding that the pope himself.
Any worthy bride is nervous before going to the altar.
I ask you not to joke with the woman to become my wife.
Forgive me, Your Majesty.
Don't worry, the bull regarding your marriage with Portugal's king had your name on it.
But this one was granted to Fernando.
And Paulo II would never take a wrong step and deny this bull.
Isn't that right, Monsignor?
Véneris, you seem less chatty than usual.
I'm tired from the trip.
- She doesn't have the papal bull? - Don't say that so loudly.
Let's go outside. You need to walk.
- Are you sure of what you say? - Yes.
Don Diego of Mendoza confirmed it.
She's going to marry without a bull.
- The king thinks she won't dare. - I doubt it.
Then why run away to Valladolid?
- Let's go back to our rooms. - Why?
- I'll write my own letter to Isabel. - But...
And I beg you see she gets it in Valladolid.
Can you do it without drawing the king's attention?
What choice do I have? I fear you more than the king.
Isabel has gone mad.
How could she plan this without a bull?
Where's Diego?
I want to see him before I leave.
He will be here soon.
What are you thinking about?
About all the matters to which I should have attended but didn't.
You.
Our daughter.
You were right.
It's been too long since we've gone somewhere together.
When we reunite, we'll take long walks together, my dear.
I doubt it.
You and I are going to different places.
Of this I'm sure.
Mother.
My son.
Calm down.
- Are you sure the bull is fake? - Yes.
The King of Aragon told me that the pope never gave it to him.
We needed Véneris to convince Pope Paulo to give us a new bull.
And turn a lie into good news.
That's right.
But Véneris failed.
And we only have the lie.
Will you tell Isabel?
No.
If we say something, Isabel won't want to get married.
And this wedding is key to our interests.
- Lies are bad company, Don Gonzalo. - I know!
But sometimes you must live with a lie to get what you want.
Gonzalo of Córdoba is a good man.
He's completely loyal to you.
- Have you talked with him? - Yes.
He's the only one besides you with whom I can talk about something other than politics.
I'm very fond of him.
Nothing I should worry about, I assume.
I swear that it isn't.
You don't have to swear it, Isabel. I believe you.
- What are you thinking? - About our wedding.
My father won't be here. Your mother won't be here.
It's strange.
True.
Regular people sometimes envy us.
And I get them. They go through hardships that we don't.
But they don't carry the kingdom's future on their backs.
And at their weddings, parents and loved ones aren't missing.
I thank you for defending me in front of Carrillo.
I'll always defend you, Isabel.
I swear I'll be loyal. Your causes will become mine.
And my hand will never shake while fighting for Castile.
As it never has defending Aragon.
You know I don't fight with a sword, but my will is the same.
I know. You've sacrificed a lot.
And it will continue to cost us. We have a tough road ahead of us, Fernando.
There's something that will make it less difficult.
We'll be together.
Your Majesty, Your Highness.
Monsignor Carrillo wants to see you.
I'm sorry to interrupt, but we have important matters to discuss.
If they're so important, why isn't Chacón here?
Because it only involves the three of us.
Read this.
All three agree to rule and act as though we were one body and soul.
We will follow your advice and never do anything without your approval.
What is this?
A contract.
A contract I hope you'll sign.
And why would we do that?
It seems I must keep reminding you of things that shouldn't be forgotten.
I brought you here, Isabel.
I protected you and your brother when you were children.
Who's been there to help you during these tough times?
You should remember who set up this fruitful wedding for Aragon.
I think I'm asking for what's fair.
- I'm sorry, but-- - We'll sign.
We'll sign.
You shall become Castile's monarchs.
And you will make it grander than it has ever been.
Thank you. Excuse me.
Many of Castile's monarchs have fallen by doing what others ordered.
It won't happen to me, I swear.
And I won't let Carrillo try to influence Aragon.
Why did you agree, Isabel?
Because, as Chacón says, we need to have this wedding.
And we need Carrillo for that.
Because Aragon and Castile deserve a better future.
And you and I can give it to them.
It doesn't matter if we change direction a little.
Because we'll end up where we need to go.
And then, that document will light our chimney.
The important thing is that we're finally together.
And we think the same thing.
The one who rules takes orders from no one.
I like what you say more than that contract we signed.
I think we should seal it.
I don't think we need to write and sign it.
There are other ways to bind a contract forever.
What do you think of my letter to Isabel?
King Enrique would agree with it wholly.
I don't know if that's good or bad. He's partly to blame for what's happened.
I'll send your letter to Valladolid first thing tomorrow.
Now try to rest, I beg you.
Is this better?
No position is good in my condition.
Do you need anything else?
To give birth as soon as possible. I thought it would be this week.
I can't take it anymore. My back hurts, my legs are heavy, and I look like a barrel!
Maybe he doesn't want to come out.
I understand. Each day here makes me want to raise him somewhere else.
- Now Pacheco... - Don't talk about court or politics.
Not even about Isabel?
Not even her.
- I need to talk to you. - What is it?
Things aren't going well at the court.
This is how Enrique rewards you after all you've done for him?
That's life, son. You plant flowers for the pigs to eat them later.
Of royal blood, but pigs nonetheless.
I need to ask you something important.
Whatever you need.
I need you to put our affairs in Toledo in trustworthy hands and stay with me.
I feel too alone.
I fear my work will be pointless if no one can keep it going.
You must stay with me.
Learn from me, and pay attention to every detail.
In time, you'll be like me.
- I doubt I'll get that far, Father. - Don't you dare doubt!
You're my son.
He wants the three of you to rule?
Carrillo is definitely going too far.
I hope you're not upset that I agreed.
I'm following your instructions so nothing stops the wedding.
And I thank you. Relax, Isabel, you did the right thing.
Your wedding is a very important step in your becoming queen, and that day--
That day nobody, not a thousand Carrillos together, will take me away from my calling.
- You can be sure of that. - I know.
After being with you for so long, I don't get how he still doesn't know
that you weren't born to be ruled by anyone.
You look happy, at last.
And secure.
That must mean that Fernando and you get along?
Yes. You don't know how happy I am.
My happiness isn't any less. You know you're like a daughter to me.
And a good father always wishes for his children's happiness.
Let's go, they're expecting us for dinner.
Let's see what Carrillo comes up with.
Will you talk to him about this?
Not now, but I'll be watching him.
You can relax.
I'll miss the tournaments and jousts during the wedding.
- I refused. They're not our style. - Or within our budget.
Tournaments cost a lot of money.
If the groom doesn't want them, we must respect him. But it's not about money.
It's a great opportunity for Castile to see your skill with the sword and spear.
I'd rather only my enemies on the battlefield know about my skills with weapons.
I don't like to show that off.
Weapons are for making war, not to celebrate weddings.
Wise words, Your Majesty. I hope you write them down word for word.
I will. What kind of chronicler would I be if I didn't?
You know truth guides my path.
Take a candle just in case.
Anyone who doubts Palencia, doubts me.
Relax, Carrillo. If it's as you say, we believe in Palencia because
I don't have faith in many people the way I do in you, Monsignor.
Let's leave it there and let the chronicler be.
A good one can take down a king just like a good army can.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
I'll gladly read what you've been writing, Palencia.
- Of course, Your Highness. - When can I begin?
As soon as I have them, you'll be the first to read my texts.
Well, all in due time.
Let's not say more.
More wine, please.
Do you recognize him, Your Majesty?
He's my son, Diego.
Your son.
How can I not remember? We played with wooden swords!
You were only eight years old!
- Do you remember? - Of course, Your Majesty.
Welcome to the court, Diego!
I'm sorry for your mother's current health.
Thank you for your words.
My son came not just to see his mother, but to stay here, if it's okay with you.
Of course. It's always good to have young blood around.
Things change. New times, new methods.
New or old, they must work.
And Diego will see to it.
From now on, he'll be my right hand and my absolute heir.
What better heir in name than his son?
By the way, I assume you know that the pope denied Isabel the bull.
You already know my opinion.
With or without a bull, the wedding will take place.
I hope you're just a bit more optimistic than your father.
That's what this old Castile needs. New men.
- And optimism. - If you'll excuse us, Your Majesty.
My daughter! What a surprise!
It's been a long time!
- What are you doing here? - Don Diego brought me.
Well, Don Diego of Mendoza sure knows how to give me pleasant surprises.
- How dare he mistreat me that way! - Calm down, Father.
Never forget what just happened.
So you can compare it to the next time we set foot in the Alcázar.
Then he'll greet us with the respect we deserve.
A Pacheco is never humiliated!
- Good morning. - Good morning.
For not having written anything, Palencia sure has a lot of paper. Come on.
My friend is suffering from love, and I'd like you to heal him.
You'd receive something for it, of course.
And who is your tormented friend?
Don Gonzalo of Cordóba. I assume you know him.
Of course, and I'll happily help you.
It was wonderful talking to you. A pleasure.
I see it's true that you're popular with women.
It's not what you think.
So, what do you want to talk to me about now?
About your trip to Aragon.
A trip worthy of a knight's tale, which should last in Castile's history.
I just got a stone to the head. I assure you I've had worse trips.
I can imagine. Even more if the rumors are true.
What rumors?
That a beautiful lady dressed as a boy went with you.
Forget the trivialities, Palencia, at least with me.
If history will talk about me, let it be for winning battles and passing laws.
For being a good king, not a good lover.
Forgive us, we thought you were out.
As you can see, I'm not.
What are you doing?
Making a blanket for Beatriz's child. She must be due any day now.
What's wrong, Isabel?
You can't fool me.
You're like your mother. When she was troubled, she'd calm herself by knitting.
I can't trust him.
I thought things were good between us. I was starting to lower my guard...
Then when I went looking for Fernando, he was flirting with one of the maids.
Why can men break rules that we women cannot?
A man who sins and has children is fine, but no blood on the wedding sheet?
Lord help the woman who isn't a virgin at her wedding.
It isn't fair, Clara, it isn't fair.
Calm down.
- It could have been a mistake. - No.
I saw him looking at her last night at dinner.
How I miss Beatriz...
My mother...
And my childhood at Arévalo.
I'm not saying you don't have a right to worry.
But don't look back.
Why not?
- I was happy back then. - Isabel.
You were happy because there are things you never tell children.
But a lot of bad things happened while your brother and you played.
What are you saying?
That you shouldn't yearn for the past.
And that you should fight for your present and future.
And Castile's.
How can I relax if he kissed me last night and now I think he's flirting around?
There's an easy remedy for that.
Isn't today the day you choose the ladies to attend you after the wedding?
Let me take care of it.
You don't seem to like Palencia's chronicles.
They're an insult to Isabel and all that we've fought for.
Listen.
After learning of his fiancée's fears of losing her freedom and even her life...
Fernando called me privately...
and asked if I thought I should marry them at Valladolid to make her feel safe.
And he did, not caring about risking his life for the distraught maiden.
He talked privately with him? I was there and I swear I didn't see him.
It seems Palencia likes to be everywhere.
Listen to this.
Isabel waited anxiously to fulfill her destiny as a woman...
obeying and supporting her husband and savior, Fernando.
How little Palencia knows about Isabel.
If she read this, he'll be lucky to leave Valladolid unharmed.
Isabel could throw anything at his head.
If Isabel reads this, we'll have a problem.
And a big one. Even more after knowing that Carrillo wants to control everything.
She's held herself back once, but twice...
- What do you have there? - It's a letter for Isabel.
It comes from the court, from Beatriz de Bobadilla.
She'll be happy to hear from her.
These are your ladies-in-waiting?
No, not them. Them.
What are all these papers?
Financial things and guest confirmations.
Is the list still growing?
No, finally Carrillo is satisfied with the guests he had in mind.
Good. Otherwise it would have turned into a Canaanite's wedding.
- You're in a better mood. - One can't be sad every day.
Even though I have my reasons.
Maybe this will increase your happiness.
It's from your friend, Beatriz.
I'm sure she's given birth.
Let's see if it's a boy or girl. She said she'd give her my name if it's a girl.
What is it?
I want a meeting with everyone right now.
- Your Highness. - I said now!
- Thank you for coming. - Your insistence had a lot to do with it.
And the alarm with which your messenger came.
We had to take advantage of your presence at the court.
And the alarm is justified.
Take a look at this list.
My spies in Valladolid sent it this afternoon.
You have spies next to Carrillo?
I have spies everywhere.
I can't believe this.
All of these people will be at Isabel's wedding?
More than a thousand guests.
I need you on my side to solve the problem.
What do you propose? That the army take Valladolid?
It should have been done when I said it, but the king didn't listen.
- The only solution is France. - France?
To marry the king's daughter with the Duke of Guyenne.
I told Yufrá about it before he returned to Paris.
Without asking the king's consent?
We haven't dealt with the problem correctly.
None of us have.
And I most of all.
We didn't get what it means to join two people like Fernando and Isabel.
Isabel. Hearing her name gives me a toothache.
Support me and it won't hurt anymore.
If we marry Enrique's daughter to the brother of the King of France...
we'll put pressure on Aragon.
Then we'd disinherit Isabel
for going against the Treaty of Guisando and marrying on her own without a bull.
This way, Enrique's daughter will also become heiress to Castile.
That's right.
It's the only solution.
Can I count on you?
Who's lying here?
Is there a bull or not?
There isn't.
- There isn't. - No, there isn't and hasn't been.
And the one you showed me?
It's a forgery.
A forged bull?
You want me to get married with a forged bull?
Your Highness, the important thing is to have the wedding now.
This is the right moment, otherwise it could be too late.
Please understand.
The bull will get here, in due time.
What I don't get is how an archbishop fools an entire kingdom and the Church.
Véneris, explain, please.
I have permission granted from the pope.
He accepts your wedding and has promised to grant you the bull.
But right now, it's impossible.
Should I believe you? Or is it another lie?
Because if it was true, you could have told me.
I didn't expect this from you.
Or you.
Once you rule, you'll know sometimes you need to make unpleasant decisions.
When I rule, if that happens...
I expect the people I trust to tell me the truth.
Let's leave the berating for another time. It will come.
- We need to decide what to do now. - I will not marry with a forged bull.
I will.
- What are you saying? - We can't turn back. It's too risky.
And if it's true that Véneris has the Pope's spoken approval?
I swear by God it's true.
- Even more reason. - True.
We could go to the notary before the ceremony.
- That would help in the future. - Please, be quiet.
- Where are you going? - To convince Isabel.
Because you can be sure we will get married.
As you can also be sure I'll never accept something like this again!
Isabel, let me talk to you.
Believe me, getting married is the best choice.
- Why? - Because the ends justify the means.
- Are you sure about that? - As sure as I know I can't fail Aragon.
Or my father.
You worry about Aragon. I'll worry about Castile.
If you care about Castile, marry me tomorrow, Isabel.
Castile needs a queen like you, and I'll help you be that queen.
I didn't come here to see a woman as beautiful as you and just walk past.
I won't lose a woman of your pride and lineage.
It can't be that much if you flirt with the first woman to cross your path.
Don't deny it. I saw you with a maid.
Do you think I risked my neck to get here to flirt with a maid?
Isabel, I wasn't flirting.
- Were you talking about the wedding menu? - No.
We were talking about Gonzalo.
He told me about an impossible love that's been tormenting him.
A lady he left in Córdoba when he came to court.
- I didn't know about that. - Gonzalo would never tell you.
He's humble. He serves and isn't noticed, like the good soldier he is.
And he's loyal, as I'm being now.
I talked with her to see if she could comfort him.
I know you don't think it's right, I know.
But I swear it's true.
I want to be your husband, Isabel.
- What about the bull? - We're young.
We'll have time to get that damn bull.
Meanwhile, we'll have children.
And they'll have beautiful blue eyes like yours.
Isabel...
Will you marry me?
Yes, I'll marry you.
I know how much you've done for this wedding to take place.
Forgive me, Your Highness, I've done so much for this wedding to take place.
And I could have ruined it with my silence.
I'm very sorry I kept the truth from you.
- You know of my devotion and loyalty. - Relax.
I've talked with Chacón, and I'll tell you the same thing.
I wouldn't be anything without your support through these tough times.
I understand the reasons that forced you to hide the truth.
- Fernando made me see them. - I was right in telling you about him.
Yes, I remember how you had to scold me for me to accept him.
- Anything for Castile. - Anything for Castile.
So, what did you want to tell me?
In spite of all you've done for this wedding, what I need is for you to not be there.
That's fine. Tell me what you need me to do.
I want you to go to Segovia as quickly as possible.
What for?
I can't get married without Beatriz knowing why I'm doing it.
When I say yes, I'd like for you to already have explained it to her.
And give this to her.
I will.
Will you give me a letter for Beatriz?
You're good with words you and know me well.
You have my trust because you know what I feel.
I don't want anything from her. I'm sorry, Cárdenas.
You know how I care about your Aunt Clara and Don Gonzalo.
But I ask you to take these gifts and go to Valladolid right now.
Just hear him out, Beatriz.
This man crossed Castile on horseback just to talk to you.
Fine. What does Isabel want? My forgiveness?
A woman who will become queen can only ask God for forgiveness.
Isabel only wants your understanding.
She wants you to know she lied to you...
because if she'd told you the truth, everything would have come down.
And not because of your indiscretion.
But because the king's spies are always watching her in Ocaña.
All right.
But it's not right to get married with a forged bull.
Sometimes you can't take the straight path to reach your destination.
You know of her sorrows when they wanted to marry her by force.
Doesn't she have the right, as a princess and a woman, to marry who she wants?
She listened to the king when he suggested the Duke of Guyenne.
But she can't expect healthy children from someone who's sick and crippled.
Would you be happier if there had been a bull...
but fear for the birth of a child who'd surely inherit his father's defects?
Beatriz, you're going to be a mother.
Can you imagine such torment?
- No. - That's why she chose Fernando.
He's a healthy young man.
And with God's will, their union will join Aragon and Castile.
And your son and your son's children will live in a better Castile.
A Castile where the monarchs won't be puppets to the interests of a few.
Lastly, you should know that while the pope didn't grant the bull...
he promised secretly that he'd grant it later during better times.
I see you don't care if I know about that.
You can share it without fear.
The king will be only become more nervous when he finds out.
Well, this is Isabel's message.
What's your answer?
Tell her I wish her that she's happy.
And may all her dreams come true.
Thank you for allowing me to talk to your wife.
And for hiding and protecting me.
- It's time for me to leave. - My men will get you out safely.
Come in.
Chacón, don't you have a better time to come talk to me?
I thought it was bad luck to see the bride's dress, not the presiding priest's robes.
Leave the irony aside. What do you want?
I want to give this back to you.
They're Palencia's texts.
Leave us.
You were the one who ordered them stolen? With what right?
The right that truth gives me. These chronicles only talk about you and Fernando.
Isabel seems like a distraught young woman saved by a dashing knight.
Is that the image of Isabel you want to leave for the future?
Don't start, Chacón. Remember all the times I've had to step in to keep our plan.
Even then I'd probably have had to intervene to keep Isabel alive.
And don't forget that with your scheming, there was almost no wedding.
What's going on, Carrillo?
It was enough to force Isabel and Fernando to rule under your control.
Say what you want and don't waste any more of my time.
What position do you want when we hold power?
You don't understand anything. You think I want to fight you for power?
This wedding isn't the end of the story. It's the beginning.
And if it goes well and Isabel becomes queen, I'll retire with my wife.
You won't see me anymore. I'll have accomplished my mission.
So keep those titles for one of your guests.
You can get fat showing off your influence and power...
but you'll end up alone, Carrillo.
Can't you see that?
If you criticize me so, why have you supported me so far?
For what you've done for Isabel.
And because the marriage to Fernando is the only solution.
- But everything has a limit. - And do tell, what's that limit?
Isabel's honor.
I don't want time to pass and no one to remember her efforts...
her struggles, and her values as a woman and a queen, if she ever becomes one.
If you respect that, I'll support you.
And if not, what will you do?
Nothing. I won't have to.
You'll condemn yourself.
You're your worst enemy.
She dares to get married without a bull.
Yes, she'll do it today.
With plenty of well-known noble witnesses.
- Where did you get this list? - Pacheco gave it to me.
He even has spies in hell.
Maybe more there than anywhere else, that bastard.
That bastard probably knew more than we thought.
It's possible his plan with France wasn't such a crazy idea.
Does the dress need to be so tight?
If you could see how beautiful you look, you wouldn't complain.
Much less today.
You'll be the prettiest bride Castile has ever seen.
I brought you some makeup.
- What is it? - Kohl.
It will emphasize your eyes.
I know this Moorish soot.
My brother Enrique's wife used it.
- Thank you, but I don't need cats' eyes. - Why not?
I used it for my wedding.
He couldn't stop looking at me.
He was even distracted when he had to say yes to the priest.
How can I say no then?
Today is a great day, Isabel.
Today all of our dreams will start to come true.
I hope I'll be up to the challenge.
You will be. You always have.
Ever since you were a little girl.
What's wrong?
- Our child is coming! - Help us! Help us!
Relax, I'm the one giving birth, don't be so nervous.
Come with me to the room.
And get the midwife here.
Get the midwife here, quickly!
Vivero Palace, October 19, 1469
Fernando, the king of Sicily and prince heir of Aragon.
In front of everyone present...
do you swear to obey the laws, codes, privileges...
good uses, and customs of the kingdoms of Castile and León?
I swear.
Let's proceed then.
We've gathered here in God's presence
to join in holy matrimony Doña Isabel, princess heir to Castile and León
and Don Fernando, the king of Sicily and the prince of Aragon.
A reading of the papal bull by Don Antonio Véneris.
Papal messenger and the pope's ambassador.
Pío II, humble bishop of God's servants...
grants Don Fernando, legitimate heir to the kingdom of Aragon...
papal permission to marry, already being of legal age...
a royal princess, related by blood three times removed.
Rome, May 28.
Year of our Lord Jesus Christ's birth, 1464.
Signs and stamps, Pío II...
bishop of the Holy Catholic Church.
If anyone present knows of any reason for this marriage not to occur
they can and should speak now, or be silent forever.
By the Apostolic Holy See's authority...
this marriage is allowed.
The king demands my presence at the court urgently.
I told you. No one humiliates a Pacheco.
Isabel.
Do you wish to become wife and woman of Don Fernando...
the king of Sicily and the prince of Aragon?
I do.
Fernando.
Do you want, as wife and woman, Doña Isabel...
legitimate princess heir of these lands of Castile and León?
I do.
By the authority given to me by the Holy Apostolic See...
I declare you husband and wife.
It's a boy.
What should we name him?
What do you think about Fernando?
You don't like it.
We'll give him the name you want.
These are the real guests of our wedding.
What am I supposed to do now, Clara, what?
Relax, Isabel. Nature will guide you in what you have to do.
What do you feel when you're next to Fernando?
Warmth.
Well, around this time, at night in Valladolid...
it's already cold.
Don Fernando is coming.
Don't be nervous.
I beg you.
- How's Isabel? - Nervous.
Very nervous.
But everything will be fine, you'll see.
And it will be thanks to you.
That's why I came, to be able to go back to Arévalo and tell her mother she's fine.
Wait for Cárdenas to come back so he can accompany you.
Have you seen Gonzalo?
- I haven't seen him since the ceremony. - Neither have I.
- Why? - I don't know.
He came to mind.
You can come in.
Are you all right?
Yes.
Now sleep.
I'll watch over you.
- Your Majesty. - Your Majesty.
Welcome.
Pacheco, I'm sorry about your wife.
Thank you, sir.
Tell me about your plan.
We'll be anxiously waiting for the Duke of Guyenne's visit.
I can't confirm his presence.
Enrique wants to marry his daughter to the Duke of Guyenne?
That's right, Monsignor Yeufeu is in Segovia for the arrangements.
I never imagined my younger sister turning into my worst nightmare.
If we had acted in time, we wouldn't be lamenting now.
The king's armies entered Toledo and confiscated all of my possessions.
What do you think about becoming mayor and treasurer of Madrid?
While keeping your titles in Segovia, of course.
Have mercy, my lady! The fields are dry! What can we do?
What do I tell Fernando? That I'm broke? That I don't have men to fight in Catalonia?
Castile is joining France to finish off Aragon and our hopes for the future.
What will be our answer?
It would be good to bring your wife back to the court.
Bring Juana? What for?
I've known you since birth, and now I'll see you become a mother.
We promise that if it's a boy...
Fernando and Isabel's son will marry Juana.
Juana is our daughter.
But we'll never be a family again.
We managed to get here because no one rules over me.
We had an agreement. You can't make choices without consulting me!
I haven't felt this good in a long time, Pacheco.
How's your son doing?
Not well.
I want you to deliver this to Castile's king.
I just saw Carrillo and Peralta together.
If Isabel has a son...
we'll be in trouble. A lot of trouble.
Isabel! Guards!
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