Lord Hugo, Bash and others in “Unfinished Business”

I marvel that you could have been brought up at court and still understand it so poorly. For a royal, there's no such thing as safety.

I realize the notion of my being king disappoints you, Lord Hugo.

It did once. But not anymore.

I'm head of the king's Privy Council for two reasons: I know how to manage men and I know how to pick the winning side. In light of recent events; the queen's pending execution and Francis's continuing absence from court... that side is yours.

How lucky I am to have such steadfast support.

If steadfast is what you require, there's only one way to achieve it. Factions need a flag to rally behind, and every young prince with a claim to the throne is another flag. But, if those flags were taken away... perhaps permanently ....

Mary

Are you suggesting... killing the boys?!

I would never presume to make such a suggestion. Those boys are the king's own blood. You asked about safety. This morning's attack was mild.

We are aware of that and share your concern.

There are plots being set on both sides, no doubt... and with deadlier consequences. Sooner or later, blood will be spilled. It's just a matter of whose. Yours and Mary's... or another's.