Now that we’ve established that The Buccaneers retains little more than the title of the book it supposedly adapts, we can finally address the drastically “original” content of this rather odd series about young feminists in 19th-century England.

The second episode of the season, “Holy Grail,” confirms that Theo, who lives in what is said to be King Arthur’s former castle, has already resigned himself: like the legendary monarch, he too will be betrayed by his wife and best friend. Nan and he appear happy, but she cries desperately when alone — and he knows it. The show will have to pull off a narrative trick: either reveal a major flaw in Theo (who, for now, is the perfect romantic hero), or…

Yes, “or.” If the central love triangle fails to generate excitement, Nan will now face competition — and from none other than the unsuspecting and sweet Lizzy Elmsworth, the most interesting of the buccaneers from the very beginning. Inspired by the tragic figure of Jennie Jerome, who would become Lady Randolph Churchill, mother of Winston Churchill, Lizzy is, in the series, the one who suffers the most.

In the first season, Lizzy was the first victim of Lord James Seadown’s cruelty. Unable to persuade Jinny that marrying him would be a mistake, she returned to New York traumatized. Still, to support her sister and friends, she agreed to go back to England — where she’s since been everyone’s shoulder to cry on. But now, it seems she might become something more than that to Theo. And I’m happy for her.

The episode reveals that Guy and Jinny are unhappy in Italy, maintaining appearances as a couple while raising her child together. Seadown’s pressure to win Jinny back is mounting, and the two are on the verge of giving up everything. Jealous of the reports of Nan’s happiness with Theo, Guy writes to Lizzy asking for help. But upon arriving at Tintagel to assist him, Lizzy finds Nan as insufferable as ever, Theo heartbroken and deceived, and an emotionally exhausting situation marked by cruel mind games.

Lizzy tries twice to talk to Nan about Guy’s letter — and each time she sees more clearly that her friend, who has everything, is throwing away her happiness for a chaotic passion. But Nan cuts her off both times (and, as usual, walks out of the room). In a rare moment of resignation, combined with a sharp perception that Theo is innocent and genuinely cares for her, Lizzy — the Duchess of Tintagel — decides to “forget Guy once and for all” and pursue her own happiness with her husband. She burns the letter and keeps the secret, leaving Guy confused by her silence.

Meanwhile, Lizzy reconnects with Hector, and the two begin to get to know each other better. But of course, Seadown never misses a chance to be unpleasant and hostile, ending the episode with a cruel revelation to Theo: that Guy spent his wedding night with his wife. The news sends the Duke into despair (and perhaps into Lizzy’s arms?).

It’s worth mentioning that Conchita was doing an excellent job as a matchmaker — until her mother-in-law ruined everything. Next week brings Lizzy’s birthday party — and an “unexpected spark” promises to surprise her. We already know what that is.