The Serpent Queen (2022) s02e03 Episode Script
Death of a Prince
1
[PERSON] Previously on
The Serpent Queen
[FRANCOIS] Burn it down.
[CATHERINE] I presume
you are not so stupid
as to leave any survivors
that might identify you.
You have a choice to make
war with the Protestants
or war with the Catholics.
Unless there were another way.
Put word out that we are entering
into negotiations with England,
but do not agree to any terms
without my prior approval.
- Are you mad?
- You forced my hand.
In fact, the house of Guise
will fund the construction
of a grand palace
along the banks of the Seine.
Perhaps a trip across the channel
would be a welcome break.
England.
I shall leave Henri here with you.
What?
[MARY] My cousin wrote to me
saying that
she would help me in my time of need.
I'm sure you've been fooled
by forgery, Your Majesty.
What?
There's always a price.
[CATHERINE]
If the price is my children,
then you already know that is
a price I am not willing to pay.
You've already buried four.
Hello, cousin.
I must travel to Italy,
and I need someone
to keep an eye on them.
Charles is your king first
and your brother second,
and I speak especially to you, Anjou.
Mother, you overestimate me.
I'm all bark.
- Enough!
- [SHOUTS]
Then bark less.
Do you think Mother will ever
really let me rule?
You can't wait for anybody
to give you permission, Charles.
[CARDINAL GUISE] The king
attending a Protestant service
was a provocation unto itself.
Equal to mass murder?
We demand satisfaction.
[RAHIMA]
There's a rumor going around
there may have been some
survivors.
♪
[DRAMATIC ROCK MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[MELODIC CHANTING]
[CATHERINE]
When Edith rose from the dead,
everything I had tried to subvert
threatened to come to pass.
[CROWD SHOUTING]
Come on!
[CATHERINE] Ironic, isn't it,
that a miracle would prove
the greatest obstacle to peace?
[BELL RINGING]
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
You said the doors were locked.
They were.
So what are you saying, Francois?
That this was a fucking miracle?
What difference does it make?
I think you'll find it makes
a big difference, Mother.
As far as they're concerned,
she led her entire congregation
out of a burning building
without a mark on her.
People are now traveling
from all over the country
to take a look at
their new Protestant saint.
Protestants don't have saints.
They do now.
And it's in her name
that people have been
attacking Catholic churches
all over the country.
[FRANCOIS]
I thought you'd be pleased.
The country is on the brink of civil war
just as you planned.
I did not plan on a group of witnesses
who could identify you
as the one who set the church alight.
[FRANCOIS] Catherine has no
interest in trying me for the crime.
But Montmorency does.
From what I hear, that gypsy
preacher is all he cares for.
He will come for you
while Catherine is away
unless you get to the king first.
No.
No, the king will not be persuaded
to oppose Montmorency,
especially with his mother away.
Then I suggest you find
someone who will.
♪
Tell me again why your mother
had to go all the way to Italy
to build your brother a palace
in the middle of Paris.
I told you, to find
the best artists in Europe.
[BALSAC] And borrow a bit
of cash, from what I hear.
Isn't it enough he's king?
Why does he need a palace that
will most likely bankrupt the country?
It's all stagecraft, Lemur.
It's orchestrated by
the master of ceremonies herself
to solidify the people's support.
My mother knows how much
the people love a project.
Just think of how many
worked themselves to death
building the great pyramids
of ancient Egypt.
Of course, how could you
ever understand?
Your mother hates you.
Still, you must be seething.
He gets a palace on the Seine,
and you get to go hunting with us.
[ANJOU] Indeed.
In fact, the only reason
I hang around with you lot
is anyone worthwhile
has something better to do.
[PERSON]
There goes the royal faggot!
[LAUGHTER]
Who said that?
Well?
[PERSON] Sister Edith says
you're not our prince!
Who the fuck is Sister Edith?
Who spoke?
Come on, show yourself,
you little coward.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[LAUGHTER]
♪
I think it would be safer
to return to the palace, Your Majesty.
♪
[SHOUTS]
♪
[CATHERINE] And yet
far from court, I had no idea
how bad things had
already become.
[SOFT MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
Can you really look at this view
and tell me you haven't
missed the city of your birth
just a little?
Mm
for me, Florence will always be
the city where everything
was taken from me.
What is there to miss?
The truth is, the faster
we conclude our business
and return to France, the better.
[BREATHING HEAVILY]
What happened to you?
Someone threw mud at me.
[LAUGHS]
It's not fucking funny.
Well, it is a bit funny.
Someone in the woods has made a speech,
and now the peasants think
it's all right
to throw mud on the princes of France.
Apparently.
[ANJOU] What are you
gonna do about it?
What do you want me to do about it?
Make an example of them.
And how do you propose I find the people
who insulted your honor?
Well, you don't have to find
the actual little shits who did it.
You just take 12 at random,
and you slit their throats
in the town square.
They'll get the message.
A bit old-fashioned, don't you think?
If you want them to respect you, Anjou,
the easiest thing is probably
to start behaving respectfully,
don't you think?
Respect?
Who the fuck is talking about respect?
I don't want their respect.
And I'm sorry to burst
your little bubble,
but there's nothing remotely
respectable about any of us.
I mean, none of you have an actual job
or any particular skill.
We grew up in the most
dysfunctional family possible.
And if you think it doesn't show
on each and every one of you,
you're delusional.
Someone's feeling a bit introspective.
Oh, fuck off, Hercule.
Oh, don't take it out on him.
Can you not see?
They are never going to respect us.
Never.
So all we have is to make sure
they're fucking terrified of us.
Spoken like a true Renaissance man.
Come on. Hercule, join us.
You fucking coward.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
Fine.
Well, I'll do it myself
if you don't have the stomach.
I said no.
Can you not see how drastically
the situation has changed?
They're attacking
Catholic churches
all over this country,
and your response is what?
Just to sit tight?
I am your king, and I will not be lured
into an overreaction
that will only promote
further insurrection.
Is that understood?
Oh, you really want
that palace, don't you?
And you really want
a spot on my government,
but you don't have the temperament.
You will not exact any
revenge for your humiliation.
Is that clear?
♪
Fine.
Aren't you forgetting something?
Protocol dictate you not
turn your back on your king
before you're dismissed.
Is he serious?
♪
May I take my leave, Your Majesty?
You may.
♪
We should write Mother
and tell her what happened.
We needn't bother Mother with Anjou.
I can handle him myself.
[BELLS RINGING]
It has always mystified me
why man had to invent
a god to fight over
when he can create such beauty himself.
My thoughts exactly,
although I've never
heard it put so succinctly.
It's not a popular
point of view around here.
According to the Pope,
there are no heretics in Italy.
Just you.
I trust my secret is safe with you.
They're ready for us now.
Your Majesty, it is our understanding
you have come to the House of Strozzi
to secure a loan for
the construction of a palace,
as it is your wish
to bring Italy's finest
artists and artisans to France
to burnish the glory
of the Valois court.
That is the proposal, is it not?
It is.
Along with the monies already
pledged by French landowners,
your loan would help make
the palace I intend to build
the envy of Europe.
Once the palace is completed
and French coffers are filled,
your loan will be repaid with interest.
May I inquire how the Valois
intends to refill said coffers?
Not that we don't trust you.
We are in the final stages
of a trade negotiation
with England, one that will be
beneficial for both parties.
[BANKER] I see.
Then the terms have been agreed?
Oh, just a few minor details
still to iron out
a formality.
Let me explain how this works.
Selling something that
you don't actually own
is only called lying outside of a bank.
Trust me.
I come from a family of bankers.
We see no reason why
the House of Strozzi
should not support
the endeavors of France,
especially when France
is ruled by our cousin.
Thank you.
It would, however, increase our comfort
if we could recommend someone
to manage your project,
someone with expertise,
with contacts among artists
and artisans you intend to hire,
and with a keen head for business.
A unique skill set,
I think you will find.
Catherine de Medici,
Queen Mother of France,
may we present the Duke of Florence,
Alessandro de Medici?
[QUIRKY MUSIC PLAYS]
Medici?
Your Majesty.
It is always preferable to keep business
within the family.
Indeed.
If we are kin, how exactly?
Ah, well, my father was kind enough
to give his mistress his name.
But not his title.
[LAUGHS] Well
that was more difficult to come by.
[CATHERINE] I don't doubt it.
Who was your father?
Duke Lorenzo de Medici,
something I believe
we have in common,
which makes me your half-brother.
You are no longer alone
in the world, Your Majesty.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[CATHERINE] The unexpected
developments in my personal life
did not prevent
our enemies abroad
from seeking to take advantage
of the trouble at court.
♪
- My darling cousin.
- [GASPS] Oh, oh.
How are you?
Yes, yes. [LAUGHS]
Yes, uh, fine, thank you,
um, considering.
It is a little bit drafty
in here, isn't it?
You'll catch your death.
Stoke the fire at once.
Goodness, I had no idea
you were being kept
in such horrid conditions.
Well, I have been here for five years.
- For five?
- Yes.
And before that, a rather gruesome tower
in Scotland for six.
Oh, boo.
I will see what I can do.
It's not me, though, you understand.
I have these counselors
men, of course, old men
who think they know better than I do,
better how to steer
the great ship of state,
men who think me
a trifling, weak breeder
who couldn't possibly undertake
such an endeavor on her own.
The truth is,
they're frightened of us
as well they should be, don't you think?
Well, on on the contrary, I
I pose no threat to anyone.
[ELIZABETH] Oh, no, no, of course not
apart from all those Protestants
you had killed in France.
Youthful enthusiasm might
have gotten the better of me,
I admit.
Well, that's all
behind us now, thankfully.
[LAUGHING] Yes. Yes.
[ELIZABETH] I do have
a favor to ask of you
or rather, some advice.
Oh, if I could be of any help to you,
it would be my greatest,
greatest happiness.
That Medici woman in France,
my understanding is
she's the one in charge.
Although I am somewhat out of date,
I can tell you with all certainty
she would have it no other way.
And would you say that
she is a committed Catholic?
[MARY] No, Catherine is
committed to no religion.
In fact, it is my belief
my former mother-in-law
believes in nothing but herself.
So you would say she lacks
the appetite for a holy war.
Well, unless she saw it
to her own advantage.
And in the battle of
Armageddon where nobody wins,
you would say the answer is no?
I suppose so.
Excellent.
[LAUGHS]
Anyway, I know it's a bore,
but I must leave you.
What? No, no, no. No, no, no.
Please, please, wait.
♪
What about me?
I will insist on an improvement
in your living conditions
the moment it is politically viable.
You have my word.
♪
Until soon, my darling cousin.
[CHUCKLES]
♪
[THROCKMORTON] Well?
It seems the Florentine shopkeeper
is someone we can do business with.
If you don't mind a bit
of market stall haggling, that is.
[ELIZABETH] Oh, don't be
such a snob, Throckmorton.
It's far easier to deal with people
who have something to lose.
All we need do is fan
the flames of religious unrest
in France, and the Queen Mother will
give England every advantage
in the trade deal
she would much prefer to war.
And your cousin Mary?
Any improvements on her condition?
She's made her bed.
When the time is right,
I'll cut her fucking head off.
[STATELY MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
We bid you welcome, Madame.
♪
My God, look at you.
If only your father could see you,
he would be so proud.
I hope so.
Are we to stand on ceremony?
Come and kiss me.
I hope you don't mind
your mother asking me to come.
How could I? We're family.
Almost.
Sweet Margot, your beauty only grows
more with each passing year.
[LAUGHS]
- [HERCULE LAUGHS]
- Hercule, my Greek god.
Do you even remember me?
You were so young when I left.
Of course.
[LAUGHS]
And who is this sophisticated woman?
Why, Diane, it's me, Elisabeth.
[LAUGHING] Yes, I know.
[HERCULE LAUGHS]
You are unmistakable.
[SOFT MUSIC PLAYS]
And where's your brother Anjou?
Anjou is doing what he does best
sulking.
[DIANE] Mm.
My dearest Jeanne, fellow pilgrim,
I am so sorry to keep you waiting.
Oh, please, don't apologize, Francis.
I know you serve the Lord.
Mm, tirelessly, I like to think
[JEANNE LAUGHS]
but any excuse to see
an enlightened follower
of the new religion
with your charms must be cherished.
- Oh, stop.
- [LAUGHS]
[ELIZABETH GROANS]
I do hope I'm not interrupting.
Forgive me, Your Majesty.
May I present Jeanne d'Albret,
Queen of Navarre.
Pleasure.
Where is Navarre, anyway?
Oh, don't bother telling me.
I'm hopeless with geography.
[SIGHS]
Your Majesty,
I am deeply honored for this audience
with another Protestant queen,
though I would much rather
have come to your court
to discuss matters
of spiritual governance
of which Lord Throckmorton
has proved such a worthy guide.
Mm, we're all terribly fond
of Throckmorton.
It's the puckish charm, I think.
[LAUGHS]
I imagine, though,
you're here to discuss
your husband's proposal of trade between
our proud nations
who've been enemies too long.
If it pleases you.
Oh, it does, as it does
all true believers
on these English Isles.
We have a unique opportunity before us.
Now, what is this rumor of
a Protestant saint in France?
Sister Edith is her name, is it not,
the pastor who led her flock
through the flames?
Yes, I am eager to make her
acquaintance upon my return.
I am sure.
And is it true that one of her followers
raised a hand to a member
of the royal household?
I confess I have not
heard this until now.
Apparently, some peasants threw mud
at one of the princes.
We don't know which one.
Well, if this is true,
it means the people are
uncommonly emboldened
by by a burning belief
in the new faith.
Yes.
I don't know how you
expect me to concentrate
on business when you are
so perfectly dazzling
in that dress, Jeanne.
May I call you Jeanne?
The beadwork itself,
you make Protestant black
look positively chic.
Has anyone ever told you that?
[LAUGHS] No, as a matter of fact,
though I do try to make some effort.
Well, if this is some effort,
the rest of us
will soon be put to shame,
eh, Throckmorton?
Oh, yes, Your Majesty.
[ELIZABETH] I have an idea.
Let us put work aside and go to London
together and visit the shops.
The shops?
Oh, it is one of my greatest pleasures.
Arriving unannounced, incognito,
really sets the cat among the pigeons.
Unless, of course, you oppose
for the sake of austerity.
Oh, well, no.
I-I mean, yes,
one must maintain austerity
at all costs, of course.
Of course.
To austerity.
[LAUGHS]
Well, that's settled, then.
Send my reply to your husband,
and we shall make a day of it.
Throckmorton will stay behind
and mind things while we're gone.
I want you all to myself.
[BELL RINGING]
[CARDINAL GUISE] You really
enjoy all this, don't you?
It's no secret that I take
pleasure in the rituals.
As do I. As do I.
If you say so.
You know, we should let
our shared love of Catholicism
be our special bond.
These are difficult times
being a Catholic,
but of course,
I don't have to tell you that
after you were assaulted
the way you were.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
So you've heard about those
little bastards, have you?
♪
Do you know what your
grandfather would have done?
He would have burnt the whole
village down to the ground
for their trespass.
Might be the reason we have
the problems that we do today.
No, Anjou, the people attacked you
because they're being
led astray from the very thing
that holds us all together
the Catholic faith.
Okay, how do I explain this?
This situation is far, far more serious
than you can imagine.
I'm worried for you.
♪
I think I'll be all right.
It's you that I worry about.
I mean, I can still come here,
whatever happens to you.
Yes, yes, you can,
and perhaps your brother
will appoint himself
head of the church
like they did in England.
But that's not gonna help you
very much, is it?
Do you know
what the people call you?
Hmm?
Do you?
Well, I'll tell you.
They say you're an aberration of nature.
And now we have this heretic
in the woods preaching
the end of the Valois line.
♪
You see, Anjou, I think our interests
are very much aligned.
After all, it's the Catholic church
that guarantees your exceptionalism.
You and your siblings are only
God's chosen because I say so.
If it wasn't for me,
the French people
would have drowned you
in the Loire River
along with the other deviants
while that devil's preacher
watches from the banks
and laughs at you.
So here's what I suggest.
♪
Next time you're in here
telling your rosary
and getting off on
the handsome stained glass men
and real-life altar boys
you like so much,
I'd say a little prayer
thanking God for me.
Because if your brother
is forced to decide
between your moral bankruptcy
and the support of his people
without the church to intervene,
what do you think he's going to choose?
Hmm?
Anjou?
I have been looking for you.
♪
The prodigal daughter returns.
Have you uh, come
for confession, Madame?
[LAUGHS]
Even a fallen woman has
a home in the house of God
if she's ready to repent her sins.
Oh, I am sure
you already have your hands
full of fallen women.
Isn't it your specialty?
Anjou, do you have a moment?
♪
What was Cardinal de Guise
saying to you?
Nothing.
Just a bit of idle chitchat.
I am sure I don't have to tell you
he doesn't have
your best interests at heart.
And you do?
I heard what happened to you,
and I am here to tell you
to forget about it.
[SCOFFS] It's not likely.
You must accept
what is different about you,
or else your enemies
will exploit your shame.
Shall I tell you a story
about a child I once knew?
The child was told to wear trousers
when his sisters wore beautiful dresses.
The child asked, "Why must I
wear plain trousers?
"Why can't I wear a beautiful
dress like my sisters?
"What if all the boys
wore beautiful dresses,
and the girls wore plain trousers?"
[SOMBER MUSIC PLAYS]
Did you let me wear dresses?
Yes, JouJou
♪
because it didn't matter
what you did in the privacy
of the nursery,
as it does not matter
what you do in the privacy
of your bedchamber.
But
what you do as a public figure matters.
You are a prince, son of Henry II,
grandson of Francis I, steady leaders.
You must honor them
with patience and fortitude,
and above all,
by listening to your mother,
as your father had the good sense to do,
same as your grandfather.
Or do you think you know
better than they did?
No.
So what will you do?
Be my usual, sunny self.
Good boy.
♪
[EDITH] And for this, we thank of you,
for yours is the power,
and yours is the glory.
In your name.
Amen.
Hello.
Look at this.
Perfection, isn't it?
Nature makes an infinite amount,
each as flawless as the last,
and then discards them
without hesitation or sentimentality.
Where are all these people coming from?
From everywhere.
[MONTMORENCY]
How are you gonna feed them?
Give them shelter?
I guess God will provide.
Ah, you think?
You can't expect me to turn them away.
[SIGHS] You know why they're here.
They're here because they
think you survived the fire
due to some kind of miracle.
And what do you think?
I think you were lucky.
And believe me,
I couldn't be happier about it.
When I thought you were gone,
the whole world went dark.
But now you must come home.
Send these people back
to where they came from.
You cannot continue to denounce the king
while your followers attack Catholics.
I cannot renounce violence
when violence is the foundation
under which we live.
If you don't, the king
will respond with force.
Well, then, I suppose we'll find out
if God really is with us.
And what will happen
to all these people?
You expect me to believe
you care about these people?
Like the leaves in the trees,
there are an infinite number.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
If I convince the king
to prosecute the Duke of Guise
for his crime, will you send them away?
♪
All I need for you is to name him.
♪
Do as you see fit,
but remember that each of us,
regardless of our station,
must be redeemed.
The idea of justice here on Earth
is a joke we play on ourselves.
It's time we see things
for how they really are
rather than how we wish them to be.
♪
[HENRI] Maximus.
[LOUIS] Oh, for fuck's sake.
[ANTOINE] Are you cheating?
[HENRI] Of course not. I don't know how.
- Remind me to teach you.
- [GRUMBLING INDISTINCTLY]
From your wife.
Ah, ah, ah. Ah.
Ah, dearest Antoine, blah, blah, blah.
Ah, apparently, she has done her duty.
The English are ready to do a deal,
and one of us should
head over tout suite.
Excellent news.
Better than that,
your wife will be delaying her return.
[ANTOINE] Ah, perhaps
she's gotten lucky
- with old Throckmorton.
- [CHUCKLES]
Is it an open marriage, then?
I think you'll find that
most marriages are somewhat ajar.
[LOUIS] As soon as Catherine returns,
we will set sail
and begin our negotiation.
Why wait?
Well, we can't very well set terms
without the approval
of the Queen Mother.
Is she more important than the king?
Well, the-the chain of command
is a complicated matter,
ever shifting
and open to interpretation.
One needs a lot of experience
to truly grasp its nuances.
You mean the Queen Mother
makes all the decisions,
and everybody else lines up behind her?
- Pretty much, yeah.
- Yeah. Yeah.
The way I see it, if we act quickly
and get Frenchmen trading
with Englishmen,
they might stop burning churches
and cutting priests' throats,
not to mention
we could make a few bob on the side.
How?
[HENRI] Better to ask
forgiveness than permission.
That's what I always say.
Of course, the Guises will cause a fuss.
[QUIRKY MUSIC PLAYS]
If only the Guises could be
properly distracted,
they might not know what's
happening until it's too late.
♪
It's my understanding
that Antoinette Guise
is very fond of you, Father.
Who told you that?
People tend to drop
their guard around you
when they think you're an idiot.
Well, indeed.
[LAUGHTER]
Tancrede, send word
back to Jeanne saying that
I'll be over to England as soon
as the wind can carry me,
and get me a meeting with the king.
- Now.
- Yes, my lord.
Go. Quick.
- Quickly, Tancrede.
- Hurry up.
[TANCREDE] Will do. On the way.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
Do you think you're
well enough to travel?
If I can get us a horse
to take us back to court,
Doctor Fernel will help you.
God directed us here.
Don't talk like that.
Why won't you open your heart
to the word of God?
Because there is no God,
and you sound like an idiot.
[EDITH] You are in pain.
You must pray for strength.
I will.
[BREATHING HEAVILY]
I'll be right back.
Excuse me. Excuse me.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
What is it, Sister?
My friend needs medical attention.
I know someone who can help him,
but he won't leave
unless you tell him to.
I have come to
the unfortunate realization
that prayer is the only way
to separate the spirit from the flesh
and end our suffering here on Earth.
He's going to die.
Death will one day come for us all.
Why should Matisse be an exception?
Your friend is free to do as he wants,
but I won't tell him to leave.
He's welcome to stay
as long as he likes.
And if you were to try
and take him against his will,
you would be punished.
♪
[LIGHT MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[RUGGIERI] Still alive, I see.
That's quite an achievement
for someone with your sense of loyalty.
Nice to see you, too,
and here I was worrying
they might have drowned you as a witch.
[RUGGIERI] Not yet.
I imagine you're looking
for your friend Aabis.
No one can tell me
what's happened to her.
Well, she's had the misfortune
of getting herself mixed up
in world events,
but I feel that you're starting to
regret some of your decisions.
That observation does not
make you a magician,
but yes, I often wonder
how I can return to Catherine's favor.
[CHUCKLES] You can't.
She won't forgive you for what you did.
It's not in her nature.
Now, if you want to get back to court,
you've got to find a way of
making yourself indispensable.
♪
[CATHERINE] Well?
I made some inquiries.
The duke's lineage has been confirmed.
He is your brother.
Anything else?
A letter from Margot.
I presume you read it.
[SIGHS] We should return to court.
Of course.
Madame, Duke de Medici.
The queen was not expecting you.
- No.
- Your Majesty.
I thought an impromptu call might be
one of the privileges of family.
The fact that we supposedly
share the same blood
does not make us family,
except perhaps on a technicality.
[ALESSANDRO] Of course.
Aside from your father, no Medici
has ever done anything for me.
I had hoped that you and I
might prove the exception.
So what is it you want?
For you to know how proud he would be
if he saw you now ruling France.
It is my son who rules France.
[LAUGHS]
All of Europe knows
who really rules, hmm?
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
How old were you when he died?
Nine.
Old enough to remember.
♪
You know, there's a villa about
a day's journey from here.
Our father used to take me there.
The last time I saw him, he told me
I had a baby sister, Catarina.
♪
When I could afford it,
I bought that house
as a monument to those few years
I had with him.
♪
I'd like to show it to you,
unless it's too much too soon.
To live your life as an orphan,
then to discover
there was someone who shares your blood,
someone who would be there for you
when you need them as our father
would have wanted it to be.
No, it it is not too much.
I would be intrigued to join you.
Your Majesty,
what of the letter from court?
I hope everything is all right.
Oh, my son was the victim
of some unruly children.
Diane can manage Anjou.
I'll be ready to leave in the morning.
You have made me very happy.
♪
[MONTMORENCY] I believe
Edith can stop the Protestant attacks.
Excellent.
But only if we hold the Duke of Guise
responsible for his crimes.
Well, we can't do that.
She has identified him
as the man who gave
the command to burn down her church.
Mother said the Catholics will
rise up if we arrest the duke.
[MONTMORENCY] Well,
the situation has changed
since your mother left.
The people want justice.
We have to act before things get
even further out of control.
You're sure this is the right course?
You said you trusted me.
Well, trust me when I say
the people have to believe
they can rely on the rule of law.
The Second Prince of the Blood.
For fuck's sake, I'm in the bath.
[LOUIS] Tell him it's urgent.
[SERVANT]
He says it's urgent, Sire.
Fine.
Oh, Your Majesty.
Clean body leads to a clean mind.
That's always been my motto.
- Has it?
- [LOUIS] Mm.
Can't this wait?
No, Your Majesty, I fear it cannot.
We have had news from England.
Queen Elizabeth is open to a deal
and has requested my immediate presence.
Now, your mother asked
that we not act in haste,
but I wager the situation may
have changed in her absence.
That's what he says.
The Protestant attacks must be stopped.
- We could just kill them.
- Then you'll be at war.
It was the attack
on the church that put us
in this situation to begin with.
Yeah, I mean, I-I couldn't
agree more, Your Majesty.
You want me to arrest the Duke of Guise
and make a deal with England
all without my mother present?
Ooh, arrest the Duke of Guise. [LAUGHS]
Yes, well, well, while that would be
a great personal tragedy
he is my cousin,
despite our differences
alas, politically speaking, it's
the uh, the best way to reassure
the people of the king's impartiality
along with a deal with the English
that will enrich all Frenchmen,
regardless of their religion.
It's my experience
that nothing unites people more
than gold lucre.
Now is the time to act,
Your Majesty.
Your mother has taught you
well, but you are the king.
And you are ready. Believe me.
Incredibly, I find myself in agreement
with the Prince of the Blood.
You see? And that- and that
never happens.
No.
You're sure you can handle
the English queen?
I hear she is shrewd.
[LAUGHS] The Virgin Queen?
How shrewd can she be?
She's never even had a man.
Furthermore, she's never
negotiated with a Bourbon.
Well, that's hardly reassuring.
Fine. Go.
I want constant updates.
Of course.
And you can bring the duke in
for questioning,
but do it quietly.
Yes, Your Majesty.
I'll tell my mother once it is done.
Now get out, both of you.
Um, can I take some of these biscuits?
Take the plate. Fuck off.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
[SIGHS]
[QUIRKY MUSIC]
♪
Have you lost your way?
I was looking for you, actually.
Where's your son?
Oh, he's around here somewhere.
How are you getting on with him, anyway?
I can't work out if
he's an idiot or a genius.
- Mm. There's a fine line.
- [LOUIS] Hmm.
What does he make of you?
Oh, he sees right through me.
At least he talks to you.
My children despise me.
I can only hope in time,
they will realize why I am the way I am.
When your children are your only method
of influence on the world,
it's rarely a comfortable position.
Well, perhaps I could come in
and distract you from your troubles.
♪
Do you remember how to do it?
Like it was yesterday.
♪
All right, then.
♪
I've never seen you on this path before.
It's a new habit.
I'm also contemplating the adoption
of many new habits in my life.
Oh?
Do you believe we pay
for our sins in an afterlife?
I don't believe anyone pays for anything
here or anywhere else.
That's why nothing has any meaning.
I disagree.
[SOFT MUSIC PLAYS]
At least, I want to disagree.
♪
I don't think I could carry on
if that were true.
♪
I think someone as singular as you,
if you stay true to yourself,
will find a way.
You find me singular?
The Duke of Guise is wanted
for questioning
in relation to a violation
of the policy of tolerance.
What? On whose orders?
The king's.
Well, there must be a mistake.
Don't touch me.
Do you really want to do this here?
[SUSPENSEFUL MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
Fine.
♪
Come on, Hercule, give us a tune.
Alas, my love you do me wrong ♪
[ALL] To cast me off discourteously ♪
And I have loved you so long ♪
Delighting in your company ♪
Greensleeves was my delight ♪
Greensleeves was all my joy ♪
Greensleeves With a heart of gold ♪
And who but my love greensleeves ♪
Alas, my love you do me wrong ♪
To cast me off discourteously ♪
And I have loved you so long ♪
Delighting in your company ♪
Greensleeves ♪
We mean no harm.
[ANJOU] Nor do we.
Please, go about your business.
[PREACHER] You are most kind.
Would you gentlemen
like to atone your sins
and be born again in a second baptism?
All are welcome.
You need only humility,
just as Sister Edith says.
Sister Edith?
You follow her?
God has sent her to us.
[LAUGHTER]
If you say so.
Don't you bow to your princes?
Oh, forgive me, but Sister Edith says
my prince is in heaven.
I mean no disrespect.
[LAUGHS] He means no disrespect.
In that case, it's perfectly all right.
You gonna let him get away with that?
We should go.
[PREACHER] I know you.
You are Prince Anjou.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
I am.
They say you frequent
houses of ill repute
where young men are sold
as slaves to satisfy
perverse instincts and that you have
been seen in the halls of the palace
dressed in women's clothing.
Oh, you'll find no judgment here,
but I'm afraid the judgment of
God in heaven will be severe.
I can help you.
All you have to do is
to get down off your horse
to start the journey towards salvation.
♪
What are you doing?
You're joking.
Come on. Stop fucking around.
♪
Oh, for fuck's sake.
Guys, pack it in.
[PREACHER] They mean no harm.
Anjou, are you all right?
What's he doing?
Fucked if I know.
♪
Is he really accepting the Holy Spirit?
I think it moves through him.
[PREACHER] Follow me.
♪
Are you ready to be born again?
I am.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
Leave it alone.
[LAUGHS]
[GRUNTING]
If you've had your second baptism,
then consider this one your third.
In the name of the Father,
the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
let your sins be washed away.
♪
[GRUNTS]
[PANTING]
♪
[PEOPLE GASPING]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[PEOPLE GASPING, SCREAMING]
♪
Now it's a hunt.
♪
[JANIS JOPLIN'S "CRY BABY" PLAYING]
Help!
[PERSON] Previously on
The Serpent Queen
[FRANCOIS] Burn it down.
[CATHERINE] I presume
you are not so stupid
as to leave any survivors
that might identify you.
You have a choice to make
war with the Protestants
or war with the Catholics.
Unless there were another way.
Put word out that we are entering
into negotiations with England,
but do not agree to any terms
without my prior approval.
- Are you mad?
- You forced my hand.
In fact, the house of Guise
will fund the construction
of a grand palace
along the banks of the Seine.
Perhaps a trip across the channel
would be a welcome break.
England.
I shall leave Henri here with you.
What?
[MARY] My cousin wrote to me
saying that
she would help me in my time of need.
I'm sure you've been fooled
by forgery, Your Majesty.
What?
There's always a price.
[CATHERINE]
If the price is my children,
then you already know that is
a price I am not willing to pay.
You've already buried four.
Hello, cousin.
I must travel to Italy,
and I need someone
to keep an eye on them.
Charles is your king first
and your brother second,
and I speak especially to you, Anjou.
Mother, you overestimate me.
I'm all bark.
- Enough!
- [SHOUTS]
Then bark less.
Do you think Mother will ever
really let me rule?
You can't wait for anybody
to give you permission, Charles.
[CARDINAL GUISE] The king
attending a Protestant service
was a provocation unto itself.
Equal to mass murder?
We demand satisfaction.
[RAHIMA]
There's a rumor going around
there may have been some
survivors.
♪
[DRAMATIC ROCK MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[MELODIC CHANTING]
[CATHERINE]
When Edith rose from the dead,
everything I had tried to subvert
threatened to come to pass.
[CROWD SHOUTING]
Come on!
[CATHERINE] Ironic, isn't it,
that a miracle would prove
the greatest obstacle to peace?
[BELL RINGING]
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
You said the doors were locked.
They were.
So what are you saying, Francois?
That this was a fucking miracle?
What difference does it make?
I think you'll find it makes
a big difference, Mother.
As far as they're concerned,
she led her entire congregation
out of a burning building
without a mark on her.
People are now traveling
from all over the country
to take a look at
their new Protestant saint.
Protestants don't have saints.
They do now.
And it's in her name
that people have been
attacking Catholic churches
all over the country.
[FRANCOIS]
I thought you'd be pleased.
The country is on the brink of civil war
just as you planned.
I did not plan on a group of witnesses
who could identify you
as the one who set the church alight.
[FRANCOIS] Catherine has no
interest in trying me for the crime.
But Montmorency does.
From what I hear, that gypsy
preacher is all he cares for.
He will come for you
while Catherine is away
unless you get to the king first.
No.
No, the king will not be persuaded
to oppose Montmorency,
especially with his mother away.
Then I suggest you find
someone who will.
♪
Tell me again why your mother
had to go all the way to Italy
to build your brother a palace
in the middle of Paris.
I told you, to find
the best artists in Europe.
[BALSAC] And borrow a bit
of cash, from what I hear.
Isn't it enough he's king?
Why does he need a palace that
will most likely bankrupt the country?
It's all stagecraft, Lemur.
It's orchestrated by
the master of ceremonies herself
to solidify the people's support.
My mother knows how much
the people love a project.
Just think of how many
worked themselves to death
building the great pyramids
of ancient Egypt.
Of course, how could you
ever understand?
Your mother hates you.
Still, you must be seething.
He gets a palace on the Seine,
and you get to go hunting with us.
[ANJOU] Indeed.
In fact, the only reason
I hang around with you lot
is anyone worthwhile
has something better to do.
[PERSON]
There goes the royal faggot!
[LAUGHTER]
Who said that?
Well?
[PERSON] Sister Edith says
you're not our prince!
Who the fuck is Sister Edith?
Who spoke?
Come on, show yourself,
you little coward.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[LAUGHTER]
♪
I think it would be safer
to return to the palace, Your Majesty.
♪
[SHOUTS]
♪
[CATHERINE] And yet
far from court, I had no idea
how bad things had
already become.
[SOFT MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
Can you really look at this view
and tell me you haven't
missed the city of your birth
just a little?
Mm
for me, Florence will always be
the city where everything
was taken from me.
What is there to miss?
The truth is, the faster
we conclude our business
and return to France, the better.
[BREATHING HEAVILY]
What happened to you?
Someone threw mud at me.
[LAUGHS]
It's not fucking funny.
Well, it is a bit funny.
Someone in the woods has made a speech,
and now the peasants think
it's all right
to throw mud on the princes of France.
Apparently.
[ANJOU] What are you
gonna do about it?
What do you want me to do about it?
Make an example of them.
And how do you propose I find the people
who insulted your honor?
Well, you don't have to find
the actual little shits who did it.
You just take 12 at random,
and you slit their throats
in the town square.
They'll get the message.
A bit old-fashioned, don't you think?
If you want them to respect you, Anjou,
the easiest thing is probably
to start behaving respectfully,
don't you think?
Respect?
Who the fuck is talking about respect?
I don't want their respect.
And I'm sorry to burst
your little bubble,
but there's nothing remotely
respectable about any of us.
I mean, none of you have an actual job
or any particular skill.
We grew up in the most
dysfunctional family possible.
And if you think it doesn't show
on each and every one of you,
you're delusional.
Someone's feeling a bit introspective.
Oh, fuck off, Hercule.
Oh, don't take it out on him.
Can you not see?
They are never going to respect us.
Never.
So all we have is to make sure
they're fucking terrified of us.
Spoken like a true Renaissance man.
Come on. Hercule, join us.
You fucking coward.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
Fine.
Well, I'll do it myself
if you don't have the stomach.
I said no.
Can you not see how drastically
the situation has changed?
They're attacking
Catholic churches
all over this country,
and your response is what?
Just to sit tight?
I am your king, and I will not be lured
into an overreaction
that will only promote
further insurrection.
Is that understood?
Oh, you really want
that palace, don't you?
And you really want
a spot on my government,
but you don't have the temperament.
You will not exact any
revenge for your humiliation.
Is that clear?
♪
Fine.
Aren't you forgetting something?
Protocol dictate you not
turn your back on your king
before you're dismissed.
Is he serious?
♪
May I take my leave, Your Majesty?
You may.
♪
We should write Mother
and tell her what happened.
We needn't bother Mother with Anjou.
I can handle him myself.
[BELLS RINGING]
It has always mystified me
why man had to invent
a god to fight over
when he can create such beauty himself.
My thoughts exactly,
although I've never
heard it put so succinctly.
It's not a popular
point of view around here.
According to the Pope,
there are no heretics in Italy.
Just you.
I trust my secret is safe with you.
They're ready for us now.
Your Majesty, it is our understanding
you have come to the House of Strozzi
to secure a loan for
the construction of a palace,
as it is your wish
to bring Italy's finest
artists and artisans to France
to burnish the glory
of the Valois court.
That is the proposal, is it not?
It is.
Along with the monies already
pledged by French landowners,
your loan would help make
the palace I intend to build
the envy of Europe.
Once the palace is completed
and French coffers are filled,
your loan will be repaid with interest.
May I inquire how the Valois
intends to refill said coffers?
Not that we don't trust you.
We are in the final stages
of a trade negotiation
with England, one that will be
beneficial for both parties.
[BANKER] I see.
Then the terms have been agreed?
Oh, just a few minor details
still to iron out
a formality.
Let me explain how this works.
Selling something that
you don't actually own
is only called lying outside of a bank.
Trust me.
I come from a family of bankers.
We see no reason why
the House of Strozzi
should not support
the endeavors of France,
especially when France
is ruled by our cousin.
Thank you.
It would, however, increase our comfort
if we could recommend someone
to manage your project,
someone with expertise,
with contacts among artists
and artisans you intend to hire,
and with a keen head for business.
A unique skill set,
I think you will find.
Catherine de Medici,
Queen Mother of France,
may we present the Duke of Florence,
Alessandro de Medici?
[QUIRKY MUSIC PLAYS]
Medici?
Your Majesty.
It is always preferable to keep business
within the family.
Indeed.
If we are kin, how exactly?
Ah, well, my father was kind enough
to give his mistress his name.
But not his title.
[LAUGHS] Well
that was more difficult to come by.
[CATHERINE] I don't doubt it.
Who was your father?
Duke Lorenzo de Medici,
something I believe
we have in common,
which makes me your half-brother.
You are no longer alone
in the world, Your Majesty.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[CATHERINE] The unexpected
developments in my personal life
did not prevent
our enemies abroad
from seeking to take advantage
of the trouble at court.
♪
- My darling cousin.
- [GASPS] Oh, oh.
How are you?
Yes, yes. [LAUGHS]
Yes, uh, fine, thank you,
um, considering.
It is a little bit drafty
in here, isn't it?
You'll catch your death.
Stoke the fire at once.
Goodness, I had no idea
you were being kept
in such horrid conditions.
Well, I have been here for five years.
- For five?
- Yes.
And before that, a rather gruesome tower
in Scotland for six.
Oh, boo.
I will see what I can do.
It's not me, though, you understand.
I have these counselors
men, of course, old men
who think they know better than I do,
better how to steer
the great ship of state,
men who think me
a trifling, weak breeder
who couldn't possibly undertake
such an endeavor on her own.
The truth is,
they're frightened of us
as well they should be, don't you think?
Well, on on the contrary, I
I pose no threat to anyone.
[ELIZABETH] Oh, no, no, of course not
apart from all those Protestants
you had killed in France.
Youthful enthusiasm might
have gotten the better of me,
I admit.
Well, that's all
behind us now, thankfully.
[LAUGHING] Yes. Yes.
[ELIZABETH] I do have
a favor to ask of you
or rather, some advice.
Oh, if I could be of any help to you,
it would be my greatest,
greatest happiness.
That Medici woman in France,
my understanding is
she's the one in charge.
Although I am somewhat out of date,
I can tell you with all certainty
she would have it no other way.
And would you say that
she is a committed Catholic?
[MARY] No, Catherine is
committed to no religion.
In fact, it is my belief
my former mother-in-law
believes in nothing but herself.
So you would say she lacks
the appetite for a holy war.
Well, unless she saw it
to her own advantage.
And in the battle of
Armageddon where nobody wins,
you would say the answer is no?
I suppose so.
Excellent.
[LAUGHS]
Anyway, I know it's a bore,
but I must leave you.
What? No, no, no. No, no, no.
Please, please, wait.
♪
What about me?
I will insist on an improvement
in your living conditions
the moment it is politically viable.
You have my word.
♪
Until soon, my darling cousin.
[CHUCKLES]
♪
[THROCKMORTON] Well?
It seems the Florentine shopkeeper
is someone we can do business with.
If you don't mind a bit
of market stall haggling, that is.
[ELIZABETH] Oh, don't be
such a snob, Throckmorton.
It's far easier to deal with people
who have something to lose.
All we need do is fan
the flames of religious unrest
in France, and the Queen Mother will
give England every advantage
in the trade deal
she would much prefer to war.
And your cousin Mary?
Any improvements on her condition?
She's made her bed.
When the time is right,
I'll cut her fucking head off.
[STATELY MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
We bid you welcome, Madame.
♪
My God, look at you.
If only your father could see you,
he would be so proud.
I hope so.
Are we to stand on ceremony?
Come and kiss me.
I hope you don't mind
your mother asking me to come.
How could I? We're family.
Almost.
Sweet Margot, your beauty only grows
more with each passing year.
[LAUGHS]
- [HERCULE LAUGHS]
- Hercule, my Greek god.
Do you even remember me?
You were so young when I left.
Of course.
[LAUGHS]
And who is this sophisticated woman?
Why, Diane, it's me, Elisabeth.
[LAUGHING] Yes, I know.
[HERCULE LAUGHS]
You are unmistakable.
[SOFT MUSIC PLAYS]
And where's your brother Anjou?
Anjou is doing what he does best
sulking.
[DIANE] Mm.
My dearest Jeanne, fellow pilgrim,
I am so sorry to keep you waiting.
Oh, please, don't apologize, Francis.
I know you serve the Lord.
Mm, tirelessly, I like to think
[JEANNE LAUGHS]
but any excuse to see
an enlightened follower
of the new religion
with your charms must be cherished.
- Oh, stop.
- [LAUGHS]
[ELIZABETH GROANS]
I do hope I'm not interrupting.
Forgive me, Your Majesty.
May I present Jeanne d'Albret,
Queen of Navarre.
Pleasure.
Where is Navarre, anyway?
Oh, don't bother telling me.
I'm hopeless with geography.
[SIGHS]
Your Majesty,
I am deeply honored for this audience
with another Protestant queen,
though I would much rather
have come to your court
to discuss matters
of spiritual governance
of which Lord Throckmorton
has proved such a worthy guide.
Mm, we're all terribly fond
of Throckmorton.
It's the puckish charm, I think.
[LAUGHS]
I imagine, though,
you're here to discuss
your husband's proposal of trade between
our proud nations
who've been enemies too long.
If it pleases you.
Oh, it does, as it does
all true believers
on these English Isles.
We have a unique opportunity before us.
Now, what is this rumor of
a Protestant saint in France?
Sister Edith is her name, is it not,
the pastor who led her flock
through the flames?
Yes, I am eager to make her
acquaintance upon my return.
I am sure.
And is it true that one of her followers
raised a hand to a member
of the royal household?
I confess I have not
heard this until now.
Apparently, some peasants threw mud
at one of the princes.
We don't know which one.
Well, if this is true,
it means the people are
uncommonly emboldened
by by a burning belief
in the new faith.
Yes.
I don't know how you
expect me to concentrate
on business when you are
so perfectly dazzling
in that dress, Jeanne.
May I call you Jeanne?
The beadwork itself,
you make Protestant black
look positively chic.
Has anyone ever told you that?
[LAUGHS] No, as a matter of fact,
though I do try to make some effort.
Well, if this is some effort,
the rest of us
will soon be put to shame,
eh, Throckmorton?
Oh, yes, Your Majesty.
[ELIZABETH] I have an idea.
Let us put work aside and go to London
together and visit the shops.
The shops?
Oh, it is one of my greatest pleasures.
Arriving unannounced, incognito,
really sets the cat among the pigeons.
Unless, of course, you oppose
for the sake of austerity.
Oh, well, no.
I-I mean, yes,
one must maintain austerity
at all costs, of course.
Of course.
To austerity.
[LAUGHS]
Well, that's settled, then.
Send my reply to your husband,
and we shall make a day of it.
Throckmorton will stay behind
and mind things while we're gone.
I want you all to myself.
[BELL RINGING]
[CARDINAL GUISE] You really
enjoy all this, don't you?
It's no secret that I take
pleasure in the rituals.
As do I. As do I.
If you say so.
You know, we should let
our shared love of Catholicism
be our special bond.
These are difficult times
being a Catholic,
but of course,
I don't have to tell you that
after you were assaulted
the way you were.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
So you've heard about those
little bastards, have you?
♪
Do you know what your
grandfather would have done?
He would have burnt the whole
village down to the ground
for their trespass.
Might be the reason we have
the problems that we do today.
No, Anjou, the people attacked you
because they're being
led astray from the very thing
that holds us all together
the Catholic faith.
Okay, how do I explain this?
This situation is far, far more serious
than you can imagine.
I'm worried for you.
♪
I think I'll be all right.
It's you that I worry about.
I mean, I can still come here,
whatever happens to you.
Yes, yes, you can,
and perhaps your brother
will appoint himself
head of the church
like they did in England.
But that's not gonna help you
very much, is it?
Do you know
what the people call you?
Hmm?
Do you?
Well, I'll tell you.
They say you're an aberration of nature.
And now we have this heretic
in the woods preaching
the end of the Valois line.
♪
You see, Anjou, I think our interests
are very much aligned.
After all, it's the Catholic church
that guarantees your exceptionalism.
You and your siblings are only
God's chosen because I say so.
If it wasn't for me,
the French people
would have drowned you
in the Loire River
along with the other deviants
while that devil's preacher
watches from the banks
and laughs at you.
So here's what I suggest.
♪
Next time you're in here
telling your rosary
and getting off on
the handsome stained glass men
and real-life altar boys
you like so much,
I'd say a little prayer
thanking God for me.
Because if your brother
is forced to decide
between your moral bankruptcy
and the support of his people
without the church to intervene,
what do you think he's going to choose?
Hmm?
Anjou?
I have been looking for you.
♪
The prodigal daughter returns.
Have you uh, come
for confession, Madame?
[LAUGHS]
Even a fallen woman has
a home in the house of God
if she's ready to repent her sins.
Oh, I am sure
you already have your hands
full of fallen women.
Isn't it your specialty?
Anjou, do you have a moment?
♪
What was Cardinal de Guise
saying to you?
Nothing.
Just a bit of idle chitchat.
I am sure I don't have to tell you
he doesn't have
your best interests at heart.
And you do?
I heard what happened to you,
and I am here to tell you
to forget about it.
[SCOFFS] It's not likely.
You must accept
what is different about you,
or else your enemies
will exploit your shame.
Shall I tell you a story
about a child I once knew?
The child was told to wear trousers
when his sisters wore beautiful dresses.
The child asked, "Why must I
wear plain trousers?
"Why can't I wear a beautiful
dress like my sisters?
"What if all the boys
wore beautiful dresses,
and the girls wore plain trousers?"
[SOMBER MUSIC PLAYS]
Did you let me wear dresses?
Yes, JouJou
♪
because it didn't matter
what you did in the privacy
of the nursery,
as it does not matter
what you do in the privacy
of your bedchamber.
But
what you do as a public figure matters.
You are a prince, son of Henry II,
grandson of Francis I, steady leaders.
You must honor them
with patience and fortitude,
and above all,
by listening to your mother,
as your father had the good sense to do,
same as your grandfather.
Or do you think you know
better than they did?
No.
So what will you do?
Be my usual, sunny self.
Good boy.
♪
[EDITH] And for this, we thank of you,
for yours is the power,
and yours is the glory.
In your name.
Amen.
Hello.
Look at this.
Perfection, isn't it?
Nature makes an infinite amount,
each as flawless as the last,
and then discards them
without hesitation or sentimentality.
Where are all these people coming from?
From everywhere.
[MONTMORENCY]
How are you gonna feed them?
Give them shelter?
I guess God will provide.
Ah, you think?
You can't expect me to turn them away.
[SIGHS] You know why they're here.
They're here because they
think you survived the fire
due to some kind of miracle.
And what do you think?
I think you were lucky.
And believe me,
I couldn't be happier about it.
When I thought you were gone,
the whole world went dark.
But now you must come home.
Send these people back
to where they came from.
You cannot continue to denounce the king
while your followers attack Catholics.
I cannot renounce violence
when violence is the foundation
under which we live.
If you don't, the king
will respond with force.
Well, then, I suppose we'll find out
if God really is with us.
And what will happen
to all these people?
You expect me to believe
you care about these people?
Like the leaves in the trees,
there are an infinite number.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
If I convince the king
to prosecute the Duke of Guise
for his crime, will you send them away?
♪
All I need for you is to name him.
♪
Do as you see fit,
but remember that each of us,
regardless of our station,
must be redeemed.
The idea of justice here on Earth
is a joke we play on ourselves.
It's time we see things
for how they really are
rather than how we wish them to be.
♪
[HENRI] Maximus.
[LOUIS] Oh, for fuck's sake.
[ANTOINE] Are you cheating?
[HENRI] Of course not. I don't know how.
- Remind me to teach you.
- [GRUMBLING INDISTINCTLY]
From your wife.
Ah, ah, ah. Ah.
Ah, dearest Antoine, blah, blah, blah.
Ah, apparently, she has done her duty.
The English are ready to do a deal,
and one of us should
head over tout suite.
Excellent news.
Better than that,
your wife will be delaying her return.
[ANTOINE] Ah, perhaps
she's gotten lucky
- with old Throckmorton.
- [CHUCKLES]
Is it an open marriage, then?
I think you'll find that
most marriages are somewhat ajar.
[LOUIS] As soon as Catherine returns,
we will set sail
and begin our negotiation.
Why wait?
Well, we can't very well set terms
without the approval
of the Queen Mother.
Is she more important than the king?
Well, the-the chain of command
is a complicated matter,
ever shifting
and open to interpretation.
One needs a lot of experience
to truly grasp its nuances.
You mean the Queen Mother
makes all the decisions,
and everybody else lines up behind her?
- Pretty much, yeah.
- Yeah. Yeah.
The way I see it, if we act quickly
and get Frenchmen trading
with Englishmen,
they might stop burning churches
and cutting priests' throats,
not to mention
we could make a few bob on the side.
How?
[HENRI] Better to ask
forgiveness than permission.
That's what I always say.
Of course, the Guises will cause a fuss.
[QUIRKY MUSIC PLAYS]
If only the Guises could be
properly distracted,
they might not know what's
happening until it's too late.
♪
It's my understanding
that Antoinette Guise
is very fond of you, Father.
Who told you that?
People tend to drop
their guard around you
when they think you're an idiot.
Well, indeed.
[LAUGHTER]
Tancrede, send word
back to Jeanne saying that
I'll be over to England as soon
as the wind can carry me,
and get me a meeting with the king.
- Now.
- Yes, my lord.
Go. Quick.
- Quickly, Tancrede.
- Hurry up.
[TANCREDE] Will do. On the way.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
Do you think you're
well enough to travel?
If I can get us a horse
to take us back to court,
Doctor Fernel will help you.
God directed us here.
Don't talk like that.
Why won't you open your heart
to the word of God?
Because there is no God,
and you sound like an idiot.
[EDITH] You are in pain.
You must pray for strength.
I will.
[BREATHING HEAVILY]
I'll be right back.
Excuse me. Excuse me.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
What is it, Sister?
My friend needs medical attention.
I know someone who can help him,
but he won't leave
unless you tell him to.
I have come to
the unfortunate realization
that prayer is the only way
to separate the spirit from the flesh
and end our suffering here on Earth.
He's going to die.
Death will one day come for us all.
Why should Matisse be an exception?
Your friend is free to do as he wants,
but I won't tell him to leave.
He's welcome to stay
as long as he likes.
And if you were to try
and take him against his will,
you would be punished.
♪
[LIGHT MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[RUGGIERI] Still alive, I see.
That's quite an achievement
for someone with your sense of loyalty.
Nice to see you, too,
and here I was worrying
they might have drowned you as a witch.
[RUGGIERI] Not yet.
I imagine you're looking
for your friend Aabis.
No one can tell me
what's happened to her.
Well, she's had the misfortune
of getting herself mixed up
in world events,
but I feel that you're starting to
regret some of your decisions.
That observation does not
make you a magician,
but yes, I often wonder
how I can return to Catherine's favor.
[CHUCKLES] You can't.
She won't forgive you for what you did.
It's not in her nature.
Now, if you want to get back to court,
you've got to find a way of
making yourself indispensable.
♪
[CATHERINE] Well?
I made some inquiries.
The duke's lineage has been confirmed.
He is your brother.
Anything else?
A letter from Margot.
I presume you read it.
[SIGHS] We should return to court.
Of course.
Madame, Duke de Medici.
The queen was not expecting you.
- No.
- Your Majesty.
I thought an impromptu call might be
one of the privileges of family.
The fact that we supposedly
share the same blood
does not make us family,
except perhaps on a technicality.
[ALESSANDRO] Of course.
Aside from your father, no Medici
has ever done anything for me.
I had hoped that you and I
might prove the exception.
So what is it you want?
For you to know how proud he would be
if he saw you now ruling France.
It is my son who rules France.
[LAUGHS]
All of Europe knows
who really rules, hmm?
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
How old were you when he died?
Nine.
Old enough to remember.
♪
You know, there's a villa about
a day's journey from here.
Our father used to take me there.
The last time I saw him, he told me
I had a baby sister, Catarina.
♪
When I could afford it,
I bought that house
as a monument to those few years
I had with him.
♪
I'd like to show it to you,
unless it's too much too soon.
To live your life as an orphan,
then to discover
there was someone who shares your blood,
someone who would be there for you
when you need them as our father
would have wanted it to be.
No, it it is not too much.
I would be intrigued to join you.
Your Majesty,
what of the letter from court?
I hope everything is all right.
Oh, my son was the victim
of some unruly children.
Diane can manage Anjou.
I'll be ready to leave in the morning.
You have made me very happy.
♪
[MONTMORENCY] I believe
Edith can stop the Protestant attacks.
Excellent.
But only if we hold the Duke of Guise
responsible for his crimes.
Well, we can't do that.
She has identified him
as the man who gave
the command to burn down her church.
Mother said the Catholics will
rise up if we arrest the duke.
[MONTMORENCY] Well,
the situation has changed
since your mother left.
The people want justice.
We have to act before things get
even further out of control.
You're sure this is the right course?
You said you trusted me.
Well, trust me when I say
the people have to believe
they can rely on the rule of law.
The Second Prince of the Blood.
For fuck's sake, I'm in the bath.
[LOUIS] Tell him it's urgent.
[SERVANT]
He says it's urgent, Sire.
Fine.
Oh, Your Majesty.
Clean body leads to a clean mind.
That's always been my motto.
- Has it?
- [LOUIS] Mm.
Can't this wait?
No, Your Majesty, I fear it cannot.
We have had news from England.
Queen Elizabeth is open to a deal
and has requested my immediate presence.
Now, your mother asked
that we not act in haste,
but I wager the situation may
have changed in her absence.
That's what he says.
The Protestant attacks must be stopped.
- We could just kill them.
- Then you'll be at war.
It was the attack
on the church that put us
in this situation to begin with.
Yeah, I mean, I-I couldn't
agree more, Your Majesty.
You want me to arrest the Duke of Guise
and make a deal with England
all without my mother present?
Ooh, arrest the Duke of Guise. [LAUGHS]
Yes, well, well, while that would be
a great personal tragedy
he is my cousin,
despite our differences
alas, politically speaking, it's
the uh, the best way to reassure
the people of the king's impartiality
along with a deal with the English
that will enrich all Frenchmen,
regardless of their religion.
It's my experience
that nothing unites people more
than gold lucre.
Now is the time to act,
Your Majesty.
Your mother has taught you
well, but you are the king.
And you are ready. Believe me.
Incredibly, I find myself in agreement
with the Prince of the Blood.
You see? And that- and that
never happens.
No.
You're sure you can handle
the English queen?
I hear she is shrewd.
[LAUGHS] The Virgin Queen?
How shrewd can she be?
She's never even had a man.
Furthermore, she's never
negotiated with a Bourbon.
Well, that's hardly reassuring.
Fine. Go.
I want constant updates.
Of course.
And you can bring the duke in
for questioning,
but do it quietly.
Yes, Your Majesty.
I'll tell my mother once it is done.
Now get out, both of you.
Um, can I take some of these biscuits?
Take the plate. Fuck off.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
[SIGHS]
[QUIRKY MUSIC]
♪
Have you lost your way?
I was looking for you, actually.
Where's your son?
Oh, he's around here somewhere.
How are you getting on with him, anyway?
I can't work out if
he's an idiot or a genius.
- Mm. There's a fine line.
- [LOUIS] Hmm.
What does he make of you?
Oh, he sees right through me.
At least he talks to you.
My children despise me.
I can only hope in time,
they will realize why I am the way I am.
When your children are your only method
of influence on the world,
it's rarely a comfortable position.
Well, perhaps I could come in
and distract you from your troubles.
♪
Do you remember how to do it?
Like it was yesterday.
♪
All right, then.
♪
I've never seen you on this path before.
It's a new habit.
I'm also contemplating the adoption
of many new habits in my life.
Oh?
Do you believe we pay
for our sins in an afterlife?
I don't believe anyone pays for anything
here or anywhere else.
That's why nothing has any meaning.
I disagree.
[SOFT MUSIC PLAYS]
At least, I want to disagree.
♪
I don't think I could carry on
if that were true.
♪
I think someone as singular as you,
if you stay true to yourself,
will find a way.
You find me singular?
The Duke of Guise is wanted
for questioning
in relation to a violation
of the policy of tolerance.
What? On whose orders?
The king's.
Well, there must be a mistake.
Don't touch me.
Do you really want to do this here?
[SUSPENSEFUL MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
Fine.
♪
Come on, Hercule, give us a tune.
Alas, my love you do me wrong ♪
[ALL] To cast me off discourteously ♪
And I have loved you so long ♪
Delighting in your company ♪
Greensleeves was my delight ♪
Greensleeves was all my joy ♪
Greensleeves With a heart of gold ♪
And who but my love greensleeves ♪
Alas, my love you do me wrong ♪
To cast me off discourteously ♪
And I have loved you so long ♪
Delighting in your company ♪
Greensleeves ♪
We mean no harm.
[ANJOU] Nor do we.
Please, go about your business.
[PREACHER] You are most kind.
Would you gentlemen
like to atone your sins
and be born again in a second baptism?
All are welcome.
You need only humility,
just as Sister Edith says.
Sister Edith?
You follow her?
God has sent her to us.
[LAUGHTER]
If you say so.
Don't you bow to your princes?
Oh, forgive me, but Sister Edith says
my prince is in heaven.
I mean no disrespect.
[LAUGHS] He means no disrespect.
In that case, it's perfectly all right.
You gonna let him get away with that?
We should go.
[PREACHER] I know you.
You are Prince Anjou.
[TENSE MUSIC PLAYS]
I am.
They say you frequent
houses of ill repute
where young men are sold
as slaves to satisfy
perverse instincts and that you have
been seen in the halls of the palace
dressed in women's clothing.
Oh, you'll find no judgment here,
but I'm afraid the judgment of
God in heaven will be severe.
I can help you.
All you have to do is
to get down off your horse
to start the journey towards salvation.
♪
What are you doing?
You're joking.
Come on. Stop fucking around.
♪
Oh, for fuck's sake.
Guys, pack it in.
[PREACHER] They mean no harm.
Anjou, are you all right?
What's he doing?
Fucked if I know.
♪
Is he really accepting the Holy Spirit?
I think it moves through him.
[PREACHER] Follow me.
♪
Are you ready to be born again?
I am.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
Leave it alone.
[LAUGHS]
[GRUNTING]
If you've had your second baptism,
then consider this one your third.
In the name of the Father,
the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
let your sins be washed away.
♪
[GRUNTS]
[PANTING]
♪
[PEOPLE GASPING]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC PLAYS]
♪
[PEOPLE GASPING, SCREAMING]
♪
Now it's a hunt.
♪
[JANIS JOPLIN'S "CRY BABY" PLAYING]
Help!