Ep 9. Acts of War

Mary and Catherine are preparing for a French attack on Scottish borders while the Protestant rebels pressure Francis to further assist their cause. Picking up from the previous episode, "Acts of War" deals with the ongoing political tensions between the French court and the Scottish monarchy. Mary and Francis are at odds about how to handle the situation, with Francis hesitant to engage in combat while Mary is determined to defend her country. Meanwhile, Catherine is dealing with the fallout from her previous actions and seeks to make amends with her son.

The episode starts with Mary and Francis discussing their next move, with Mary frustrated at Francis' lack of action. Francis is hesitant to go to war, as he knows it will only lead to more bloodshed and suffering. Mary, on the other hand, is determined to do whatever it takes to protect her people and their land. They eventually come to an agreement that they will fight a defensive war, only engaging in combat if necessary.

Meanwhile, Catherine is dealing with the aftermath of her scheme to have Lola's child declared illegitimate. She seeks Francis' forgiveness and tries to make amends with Lola, who is still reeling from the news. Catherine is also trying to figure out how to deal with the Protestant rebels, who are growing more bold and demanding in their requests. She seeks out Narcisse for help, but he refuses to intervene, reminding her that he is still serving the French court.

As tensions mount, Mary decides to take matters into her own hands and leads a group of soldiers to the Scottish border. They quickly come under attack from the French army, led by an old friend of Francis'. Mary and her soldiers manage to fight them off, but it becomes clear that they are severely outnumbered and outmatched. Back at court, Francis has a change of heart and decides to join Mary on the battlefield, rallying his troops and leading them to the front lines.

The battle is intense and brutal, with both sides suffering heavy losses. Mary is injured in the fighting, but she refuses to back down and continues to fight alongside her people. Francis proves himself to be a capable leader, earning the respect and admiration of his soldiers. Eventually, the French army is forced to retreat, and Mary and Francis emerge victorious.

As the episode ends, Mary and Francis reflect on the cost of war and the toll it takes on both the victors and the defeated. They vow to work together to rebuild their countries and forge a lasting peace. Meanwhile, Catherine is reeling from the revelation that Narcisse has been working against her all along, and seeks revenge for his betrayal. The stage is set for more political intrigue and drama as the season continues.