In this episode Emperor Konrad II (1024-1039) consolidates his reign. He places his son Henry on the ducal throne of Bavaria, the first of many ducal and royal titles he will acquire. This push to further centralise control leads to a rebellion, led by the emperor’s 16-year old stepson, duke Ernst II of Swabia (1012-1030). Ernst fights bravely but when his vassals put the oath to the emperor above the fidelity they owe the duke he has to succumb. Konrad is prepared to reinstate him if he hands over his firind and loyal vassal Werner of Kiburg. When Ernst refuses he becomes an outlaw and – in the legend – has great adventures in weird and foreign lands…
