Ep 3. Episode 3

The episode starts with Christopher Tietjens arriving at his new post at the front lines in France. He is greeted by his fellow officers who seem to already have formed a negative opinion of him due to rumors spread by Sylvia Tietjens. Christopher soon discovers that conditions in the trenches are atrocious, with soldiers constantly subjected to shelling and mustard gas attacks. He is also appalled by the lack of concern shown by high-ranking officers for the welfare of their men.

Meanwhile, back in England, Sylvia continues to live a life of debauchery with various men. She is particularly drawn to a young soldier, Corporal McKechnie, and invites him to stay at her house. As the pair grows closer, Sylvia is forced to confront her feelings for Christopher and the guilt she feels about their failed marriage.

Valentine Wannop, having been recruited by the War Office to work as a translator, is struggling to adjust to her new job. She is constantly belittled by her male colleagues and is frustrated by the lack of recognition for her hard work. However, she meets a young soldier named Nick, who she becomes enamored with. The pair share a deep connection, and Valentine opens up to Nick about her past and her aspirations for the future.

As the war rages on, Christopher discovers that there may be a traitor within his own ranks. He enlists the help of an old friend, General Campion, to investigate the matter. Together they uncover a group of officers who have been secretly meeting with German agents. Christopher is horrified by their treachery and is torn between his loyalty to his country and his moral code.

In the final scenes of the episode, we see Sylvia and McKechnie enjoying a night at the theater when they are interrupted by a group of angry soldiers. The men are outraged at the sight of an officer's wife consorting with a common soldier and threaten violence towards the pair. Christopher, who is in the audience, rushes to their defense and a melee breaks out. Amidst the chaos, Valentine and Nick share a tender moment, with Valentine finally finding the connection she has been searching for.

Overall, this episode is a gripping exploration of the complexities of war, love, and morality. The viewer is taken on a rollercoaster of emotions as the characters grapple with their individual dilemmas. The acting is superb, with Benedict Cumberbatch delivering a masterful performance as Christopher Tietjens. The direction and cinematography are also stunning, with the brutal realities of war juxtaposed against the opulence of British high society. This episode is a must-watch for any fans of period dramas or war epic series.