There is great excitement surrounding the arrival of John Fletcher at Arnescote Castle. His father and Lord Lacey have a heated discussion about the wedding dowry.

The King dramatically makes several arrests for treason in the House of Commons. While out riding Lucinda meets Prince Rupert on his way to visit Sir Martin.

Anne returns to the castle to collect her belongings and has a sad parting with her father. Lord Lacey is badly wounded fighting and a cousin, Susan Protheroe, arrives seeking refuge.

Lucinda is rude to the King because of her sense of justice - she then embarks on a successful adventure posing as 'Luke' Lacey and redeems herself.

Arnescote is commandeered by Captain Marsh, a Cavalry Officer for Cromwell's Parliament. Sir Martin feels let down by the King and cousin Susan betrays the family.

Dick Skinner returns to Arnescote with tales of pillaging in Swinford. Tom goes there and brings his sister Anne home despite her angry protests. Lucinda receives advice from the King.

Tom is anxious about the castle's security and calls for more diligence. Anne gives birth then bids a sad farewell to Arnescote. Hugh Brandon performs a 'valiant commission' for Sir Martin.

Arnescote is surrounded and is under siege by the Roundheads. Sam Saltmarsh brings shame on his family by being a turncoat and Susan Protheroe is re-acquainted with Colonel Marsh.

Sir Martin's funeral brings with it more family and political discord. Colonel Marsh is holding Arnescote's inhabitants hostage and the future of the castle is looking grim.