Reign: Season 4, Episode 1 - With Friends Like These (2017)

The episode opens with Mary, Queen of Scots, in a state of turmoil as she grapples with the aftermath of her tumultuous reign and the loss of her throne. She is in a castle in Scotland, where she is being held captive. The atmosphere is tense, and Mary is visibly distressed, reflecting on her past decisions and the betrayals she has faced. She is determined to reclaim her power and is plotting her next move.

Meanwhile, in France, Catherine de' Medici is dealing with the political fallout of Mary's imprisonment. She is in a meeting with her son, King Charles, who is struggling with his own insecurities and the pressures of ruling. Catherine is manipulative and calculating, using her influence to maintain control over the court and to ensure that her family's interests are protected. She expresses her desire to keep Mary from returning to power, fearing the threat she poses.

Back in Scotland, Mary receives a visit from her half-brother, James. He is conflicted about his loyalty to Mary and the political realities of their situation. James urges Mary to consider a more diplomatic approach to regain her throne, but Mary is adamant about taking a more aggressive stance. Their conversation reveals the deep familial bonds and the strain of their political circumstances.

As the episode progresses, we see Mary's determination manifest in her decision to seek allies. She reaches out to her supporters, including the Scottish nobles, to rally them to her cause. The tension builds as she prepares to make a bold move to reclaim her throne, showcasing her resilience and leadership qualities.

In France, Catherine continues her scheming, and we see her plotting against Mary. She meets with various court members, discussing strategies to undermine Mary's influence and solidify her own power. Catherine's machinations highlight her ruthless nature and her willingness to do whatever it takes to protect her family's legacy.

Mary's plans take a turn when she learns of a potential ally in England. She decides to send a message to Elizabeth I, hoping to secure her support. This decision is fraught with risk, as it could either strengthen her position or lead to further complications. Mary's internal conflict is palpable as she weighs the potential outcomes of reaching out to her cousin.

The episode culminates in a dramatic confrontation when Mary's supporters gather to discuss their next steps. Tensions rise as differing opinions emerge about how to proceed. Some advocate for a more cautious approach, while others push for immediate action. Mary stands firm in her resolve, showcasing her leadership as she rallies her supporters to take decisive action against those who have wronged her.

In the final moments of the episode, Mary receives news that could change everything. A messenger arrives with information about Elizabeth's response to her overtures. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as Mary prepares to face whatever challenges lie ahead, setting the stage for the conflicts and alliances that will define the season. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving viewers eager to see how Mary will navigate the treacherous waters of power and betrayal.

At the end of "With Friends Like These," Mary is faced with the consequences of her decisions as she navigates the treacherous political landscape of France. She is determined to reclaim her throne but finds herself increasingly isolated. Meanwhile, Elizabeth's machinations lead to a significant shift in power dynamics, and the episode concludes with a sense of foreboding for Mary and her allies.

As the episode unfolds, we begin with Mary Stuart, who is now in a precarious position. She is in France, where she has returned to reclaim her rightful place as queen. However, her return is met with skepticism and hostility from those who once supported her. The tension is palpable as she confronts the reality of her situation; she is not the beloved queen she once was, and her allies are dwindling.

In a pivotal scene, Mary meets with her cousin, Elizabeth I of England, who is portrayed as both a friend and a foe. Their conversation is laced with political undertones, as Elizabeth expresses her concerns about Mary's ambitions. Mary, fueled by a mix of desperation and determination, insists that she will not be sidelined. This exchange highlights the complex relationship between the two queens, underscoring the themes of loyalty and betrayal that permeate the episode.

As the narrative progresses, we see Mary's relationships with her closest allies, including Greer and Bash, become strained. Greer, who has her own struggles, tries to support Mary but is often caught in the crossfire of political intrigue. Bash, on the other hand, is torn between his loyalty to Mary and his own ambitions. The emotional weight of their friendships is evident as they navigate the treacherous waters of court politics.

The climax of the episode occurs when Mary makes a bold move to assert her authority. She gathers her remaining supporters and confronts those who oppose her. The scene is charged with tension as Mary stands before her court, her voice steady but her heart racing. She declares her intention to reclaim her throne, and the reactions from her courtiers are mixed--some are supportive, while others are clearly wary of her resolve.

In the final moments, the episode leaves viewers with a sense of uncertainty. Mary's determination is admirable, but the stakes are high, and the consequences of her actions loom large. Elizabeth's influence is felt throughout, and as the camera pans out, we see Mary standing alone, a queen surrounded by shadows of doubt and betrayal.

The fates of the main characters are left hanging in the balance. Mary is resolute but isolated, facing an uphill battle to regain her power. Elizabeth remains a formidable opponent, her intentions shrouded in mystery. Greer and Bash are left to grapple with their own choices, uncertain of where their loyalties will ultimately lie. The episode closes with a haunting reminder of the fragility of power and the complexities of friendship in a world where alliances can shift in an instant.

In "With Friends Like These," the first episode of Season 4 of Reign, there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes without any additional scenes after the credits roll, focusing instead on the main narrative and character developments throughout the episode. The story wraps up with the events and emotional arcs presented, leaving no further content to explore in a post-credit format.

The episode vividly depicts betrayal among friends through the actions of those close to Mary, particularly as former allies turn against her. This betrayal is illustrated through secret alliances and the manipulation of information, showcasing the precarious nature of trust in the royal court.

Upon her return to Scotland, Mary faces the challenge of re-establishing her authority as queen amidst the political turmoil and the threat posed by her cousin, Elizabeth I. She grapples with the loyalty of her supporters and the betrayal from those she once trusted.

Elizabeth I's character looms large over the events of the episode, as her decisions and manipulations directly impact Mary's situation. Elizabeth's desire to maintain her power and eliminate any threats leads her to employ spies and create alliances that complicate Mary's position.

In this episode, the relationship between Mary and Lord Darnley is strained as they navigate the complexities of their marriage and the political implications of their union. Darnley's ambition and desire for power create tension, as Mary must balance her personal feelings with her responsibilities as queen.

The Scottish nobles play a crucial role in the conflict of the episode, as their shifting loyalties and ambitions create a volatile political landscape. Their actions directly affect Mary's ability to govern and protect her throne, highlighting the fragility of her reign.

"Reign," season 4, episode 1 titled "With Friends Like These," contains several elements that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers. Here are some aspects to be aware of:

1. Violence and Threats: The episode includes scenes of political intrigue that may involve threats of violence, which can be intense and unsettling.

2. Mature Themes: The storyline delves into complex themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the harsh realities of power struggles, which may be difficult for younger viewers to fully understand.

3. Romantic Tensions: There are romantic subplots that include tension and emotional conflict, which may not be suitable for all audiences.

4. Death and Betrayal: The episode touches on themes of betrayal and the consequences of political decisions, which can be emotionally heavy.

5. Emotional Distress: Characters experience significant emotional turmoil, including feelings of isolation and fear, which may resonate deeply with sensitive viewers.

These elements contribute to a mature atmosphere that may not be appropriate for younger audiences.