Reign: Season 3, Episode 10 - Bruises That Lie (2016)

The episode opens with Mary, Queen of Scots, grappling with the aftermath of her tumultuous relationship with her cousin, Elizabeth I of England. She is determined to secure her position and seeks counsel from her advisors. Mary is particularly focused on the threat posed by Elizabeth, who has been increasingly hostile towards her. The tension is palpable as Mary expresses her fears about Elizabeth's intentions, revealing her vulnerability and the weight of her responsibilities as a queen.

Meanwhile, in Scotland, Bash (Sebastian de Poitiers) is dealing with the fallout from his recent actions. He is haunted by the choices he has made and the consequences they have wrought. His internal struggle is evident as he reflects on his loyalty to Mary and the sacrifices he has made for her. Bash's emotional turmoil is compounded by his desire to protect Mary from the dangers that surround her, leading him to make a pivotal decision regarding his future.

Back at court, Mary receives news that Elizabeth has sent a letter demanding her presence in England. This news sends shockwaves through the court, and Mary is torn between her duty to her country and the potential peril of facing Elizabeth. Her advisors urge her to refuse the summons, fearing for her safety. However, Mary is resolute in her belief that she must confront Elizabeth to secure her claim to the throne and protect her people.

As the episode progresses, we see a subplot involving Greer, who is struggling with her own personal demons. She is faced with the reality of her choices and the impact they have on her relationships. Greer's emotional state is fragile, and she seeks solace in her friends, but the weight of her decisions continues to haunt her. This subplot serves to highlight the theme of personal sacrifice and the complexities of love and loyalty.

In a dramatic turn of events, Mary decides to accept Elizabeth's invitation, believing that it is the only way to assert her power and legitimacy. This decision is met with mixed reactions from her court, with some supporting her bravery while others fear for her safety. The tension builds as Mary prepares for her journey to England, and the stakes are raised as she contemplates the potential consequences of her actions.

As Mary departs for England, Bash is left behind, grappling with his feelings of helplessness. He is determined to protect Mary, even from afar, and vows to do whatever it takes to ensure her safety. This determination drives him to make a bold move that will have significant implications for both him and Mary.

In England, Mary arrives at Elizabeth's court, where she is met with a cold reception. The atmosphere is tense, and the power dynamics between the two queens are immediately apparent. Elizabeth's demeanor is icy, and she makes it clear that she views Mary as a rival rather than an ally. The confrontation between the two queens is charged with emotion, as they each assert their claims to power and legitimacy.

The episode culminates in a dramatic confrontation between Mary and Elizabeth, where both women lay bare their grievances and ambitions. The dialogue is sharp and filled with underlying tension, as they navigate the treacherous waters of their relationship. The stakes are high, and both queens are acutely aware of the implications of their words and actions.

As the episode draws to a close, the emotional fallout from the confrontation lingers. Mary is left to ponder the precariousness of her position, while Bash's determination to protect her intensifies. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving viewers anxious about the future of both Mary and Elizabeth, and the impact of their rivalry on the fate of their respective kingdoms.

In the ending of "Bruises That Lie," Mary is faced with the consequences of her decisions as she grapples with the fallout from her actions. She confronts the reality of her relationship with Francis and the political machinations surrounding her. Meanwhile, Elizabeth's schemes come to a head, leading to a tense standoff. The episode concludes with Mary making a pivotal choice that will affect her future and the lives of those around her.

As the episode unfolds, we find Mary struggling with the emotional weight of her past decisions. The scene opens with her in the castle, reflecting on her relationship with Francis. She is haunted by memories, and her internal conflict is palpable. The camera captures her expressions of sorrow and determination as she contemplates her next move.

In a parallel storyline, Elizabeth is seen plotting her next steps. Her ambition drives her to manipulate those around her, and her interactions with her advisors reveal her ruthless nature. The tension builds as she prepares to confront Mary, setting the stage for a dramatic encounter.

The narrative shifts back to Mary, who is approached by her loyal friend, Greer. Greer expresses concern for Mary's safety and the potential repercussions of her actions. Their conversation is filled with emotional weight, highlighting the bond between them and the stakes involved. Mary's resolve strengthens as she acknowledges the risks but feels compelled to act for the sake of her kingdom.

As the climax approaches, the scene transitions to a grand hall where Mary and Elizabeth finally come face to face. The atmosphere is charged with tension, and the dialogue crackles with underlying animosity. Each woman stands firm in her beliefs, and the stakes of their confrontation are made clear. The audience can feel the weight of their rivalry, as both are determined to protect their thrones.

In the final moments, Mary makes a decisive choice that reflects her growth and understanding of her role as a leader. She chooses to prioritize her kingdom over personal desires, a moment that signifies her evolution throughout the series. The camera lingers on her face, capturing the mix of fear and resolve as she steps into her new reality.

The episode concludes with a sense of uncertainty hanging in the air. Mary's fate is left ambiguous, but her determination to face the challenges ahead is evident. Elizabeth, on the other hand, is shown plotting her next move, her ambition undeterred. The final shot leaves viewers with a lingering sense of tension, hinting at the ongoing conflict between the two queens.

In summary, the fates of the main characters are intertwined with the political landscape they navigate. Mary emerges as a more resolute leader, while Elizabeth's ambition continues to drive her actions. The episode closes with the promise of further conflict, setting the stage for the challenges that lie ahead for both women.

In "Bruises That Lie," the tenth episode of Season 3 of "Reign," there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes without any additional scenes or content after the credits roll. The focus remains on the intense and dramatic events that unfold throughout the episode, particularly surrounding Mary, Queen of Scots, and her struggles with the political and personal turmoil she faces. The narrative wraps up with the main storyline, leaving no further scenes to explore after the credits.

In this episode, Mary confronts Elizabeth about the ongoing tensions between their kingdoms. The confrontation is charged with emotion as Mary expresses her frustrations over Elizabeth's manipulations and the precarious position she finds herself in as a queen. This moment highlights Mary's determination to assert her power and protect her interests.

Bash is deeply concerned about Kenna's well-being after learning about her struggles. His protective instincts kick in, and he tries to support her emotionally, showcasing his love and commitment. This dynamic reveals Bash's internal conflict as he balances his duties with his feelings for Kenna.

Greer finds herself in a complicated position as she navigates her relationships with both Mary and her own romantic interests. In this episode, she acts as a confidante for Mary, providing support and advice while also dealing with her own personal dilemmas, which adds depth to her character and highlights her loyalty.

Elizabeth's character is portrayed as increasingly shrewd and calculating in this episode. She uses her political acumen to manipulate situations to her advantage, showcasing her growth as a ruler who is willing to make difficult decisions for the sake of her reign. This development adds layers to her character, making her both a formidable ally and a dangerous adversary.

The title 'Bruises That Lie' reflects the hidden emotional and physical scars that the characters carry. In this episode, various characters deal with the consequences of their past actions and the lies they tell themselves and others. This theme is particularly evident in the struggles of Mary and Bash, as they confront their vulnerabilities and the impact of their choices on their relationships.

"Reign" is a historical drama that often includes mature themes and content. In Season 3, Episode 10, titled "Bruises That Lie," there are several elements that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers:

1. Violence: The episode contains scenes of physical altercations and the aftermath of violence, which may be distressing.

2. Emotional Turmoil: Characters experience intense emotional struggles, including betrayal, heartbreak, and manipulation, which could be heavy for younger audiences.

3. Romantic Tension: There are complex romantic relationships that involve jealousy and conflict, which may not be suitable for all viewers.

4. Themes of Betrayal and Deceit: The plot involves significant themes of betrayal and political intrigue, which can be unsettling.

5. Dark Atmosphere: The overall tone of the episode is quite dark, with a focus on the consequences of power struggles and personal conflicts.

These elements contribute to a mature viewing experience, and parental discretion is advised for younger audiences.