Intro. Aethelstan is the illegitimate grandson of King Alfred. As a child, he was a political burden, not a gift. It was too dangerous to keep it in the courtyard: too many people knew about it, too many could have used it. That's why Edward (her father) decided to remove her from where power poisons her. He sent it to Uhtred. Not by chance. Uhtred was neither a priest nor a courtier. He was a warrior. Externally. A man who did not bow easily to anyone, and whose loyalty was not in words but in deeds. Edward wanted the boy to live, not just survive. To learn what life is like outside the walls, where people don't make decisions based on rank. This is how Aethelstan came to Uhtred's house, still a child. Not as a prisoner. Not as a guest. But raised as a child. Aethelstan and Uhtred's relationship Uhtred did not love Aethelstan as a king loves an heir. But the way a warrior loves a boy he wants to give a chance to. He did not spare her. He didn't cherish it. Taught by: how to stand on your own two feet.