Ep 4. Chapter 4

Francis Underwood, a powerful congressman in Washington D.C. and House Majority Whip, is starting to feel the consequences of his recent actions. Underwood is caught between a rock and a hard place, as he tries to navigate a tricky situation involving the Chinese government and an American company. Meanwhile, he and his wife Claire continue to scheme against their former friend and colleague, Michael Kern, in an effort to gain more power and influence in the political arena.

As the episode begins, Francis is still reeling from the events of the previous episode, in which he was forced to give up a key committee position in order to stay out of the public eye. Despite this, he remains determined to maintain control of his own destiny and to achieve his goals, whatever the cost. At the same time, he is grappling with the fallout from a recent speech in which he openly criticized the Chinese government and called for tougher trade policies.

As the Chinese government responds to Francis' speech with anger and threats, he realizes that he may have bitten off more than he can chew. In order to avoid a potential international crisis, he must negotiate a delicate agreement between the Chinese and the American company involved in the dispute. Along the way, he encounters a number of unexpected obstacles, including bureaucratic red tape and political opponents who are eager to see him fail.

Meanwhile, Francis and Claire continue to work behind the scenes to gain more power and influence in the Washington political scene. They target Michael Kern, a former friend and colleague who has fallen out of favor with the party leadership. Using a combination of blackmail and manipulation, they attempt to force Kern out of a key position and secure it for one of their own allies.

Throughout the episode, Francis and Claire are forced to confront the consequences of their actions and the limits of their power. As they struggle to maintain control over their various schemes and maneuvers, they are forced to make difficult choices and take risks that could have serious consequences for themselves and others.

As the episode comes to a close, Francis finds himself in a perilous position, with his carefully crafted plans unraveling before his eyes. He is forced to confront the reality of his own mortality and the fragility of his position in Washington. Will he be able to regain his footing and emerge triumphant, or will he fall victim to the forces that he has so recklessly unleashed? Only time will tell, as the drama of House of Cards continues to unfold.