The TARDIS arrives in the middle of the English Civil War, 26 July 1643. As the soldiers surround the Doctor, Amy Pond and Rory Williams, Prince Rupert of the Rhine rides up and declares the battle lost and demands their immediate surrender. He unleashes his "Dog of War", a giant poodle. The Doctor is quick to warn Rory and Amy to block their ears. The dog emits a bark that freezes the higher brain functions, leaving the soldiers unable to move or speak. As Prince Rupert boasts about his remarkable dog, "Boye", his soldiers collect the other side's weapons. Suddenly Boye lunges at the Doctor.