The Serpent Queen

Catherine aims to unite France under King Charles IX, pushing her agenda of a secular state. The Bourbons present a trade deal with England. Tensions rise on the Privy Council.

With peace lying on a knifes edge, Catherine attempts to calm tensions by allowing the Bourbons to pursue the trade deal with England, and she halts the investigation into the Duke of Guise's arson involvement.

News of Edith's miracle spreads throughout Europe. The Bourbon's leverage an opportunity for England to exploit France. Catherine must return urgently to France when Anjou's temper causes damage.

Catherine seeks retribution for the court’s defiance in her absence. But with Charles ready to make his own rules, he rejects his mother’s influence.

Catherine relinquishes her seat on the Privy Council, but not before absolving Anjou of any responsibility in Hercule’s death and securing him a place on the Council.