Ep 5. A Chill in the Air

As Queen Mary and her entourage adjust to courtly life in France, tensions continue to simmer beneath the surface. In the fifth episode of Reign's first season, "A Chill in the Air," the palace is abuzz with talk of an upcoming masquerade ball, but Mary is preoccupied with worries about her safety.

After a recent attempt on her life, Mary is understandably concerned about potential threats to her person. Despite her guards' assurances that they will keep her safe, Mary remains on edge, wary of anyone who may be plotting against her.

Adding to her unease is the arrival of the Duke of Guise, a powerful and ambitious man who has his eye on the French throne. Mary is wary of the Duke's motives and intentions, and is unsure whether she can trust him or not.

Meanwhile, Mary's ladies-in-waiting find themselves preoccupied with their own romantic entanglements. Kenna is eager to win the affections of the handsome but fickle King Henry, while Greer is torn between her loyalty to her family and her growing feelings for a lowly kitchen worker.

As the masquerade ball approaches, tensions continue to mount. Mary must navigate the treacherous waters of courtly politics while trying to keep herself and her friends safe from harm. Will she be able to uncover the plots against her before it's too late?

"A Chill in the Air" is a tense and suspenseful episode that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat from start to finish. The complex web of political intrigue and romantic subplots makes for a compelling and engaging story, with plenty of twists and turns along the way.

The performances are uniformly strong, with excellent work from the entire cast. Adelaide Kane shines as Mary, conveying both her strength and vulnerability as a young ruler struggling to find her place in a hostile and uncertain world. Megan Follows delivers a standout performance as Catherine de' Medici, the cunning and manipulative queen mother who is always one step ahead of her enemies.

The production values are also top-notch, with stunning costumes and beautiful sets that transport the viewer back in time to the lavish court of 16th century France. The masquerade ball itself is a feast for the eyes, with elaborate costumes and a vibrant, festive atmosphere.

Overall, "A Chill in the Air" is another strong episode of Reign that will leave viewers eager to see where the story goes next. With its blend of political intrigue, romance, and suspense, it's a show that has something for everyone.