Ep 7. Hanging Swords

Queen Mary and Lord Bothwell return to Scotland to gather forces in their fight against Queen Elizabeth's imminent attack. Mary knows that she needs her country to be united if she is to stand any chance against the powerful English queen and requests a meeting with her brother, James, who is the Earl of Moray and an ally of the English.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth has to deal with a revolt in her own court as her advisor, William Cecil, and his allies plot to overthrow her. Moreover, the arrival of Gideon Blackburn, a man from Elizabeth's past, further complicates matters as she is forced to confront her feelings for him and her duty to England.

As tensions rise on both sides of the border, Mary continues to navigate the treacherous waters of Scottish politics and is faced with difficult choices that will determine the fate of her country and her people. She also struggles with her own personal demons, including the guilt she feels over the death of her close friend, Aylee, and her growing attraction to Lord Bothwell.

The episode is filled with political intrigue, emotional turmoil, and gripping action as the stakes continue to escalate for both Mary and Elizabeth. The hanging swords of the title serve as a metaphor for the dangers that loom ahead for both queens, and the episode does not disappoint in delivering a tense and thrilling climax.

Overall, "Hanging Swords" marks another strong entry in the fourth season of Reign, a series that has consistently delivered gripping storytelling and compelling characters. With only a few episodes left to go, fans will surely be on the edge of their seats as the battle between Mary and Elizabeth reaches its epic conclusion.