Matt Ford

Mary adjusts the bodice of her crimson gown to reveal more décolletage.

The King will find you impossible to resist, Your Majesty.

Mary examines herself in her looking-glass.

She's seen to it that Darnley has been given more control over her counsellors and courtiers this last few months, and his confidence has grown as a result.

Unfortunately, so too has his drinking, meaning less time spent in her bed and less possibility of producing a precious heir to claim England's throne.

It's been too long since he visited my room.

I am missing his attributes.

According to our research, as well as being one, he also possessed a massive dick.

Yeah.

Well, it's a compliment, isn't it?

Having one.

You're giving them one hand and, you know, needing two to hold it.

Mary eyes the ladies knowingly.

And they dissolve into giggles.

Mary strides down the hallway.

and pushes open the door to Darnley's room, her playful greeting prepared.

My king, I wish to see your most powerful scepter.

Mary freezes.

Darnley is on the bed, his naked limbs wrapped around those of their newest housemaid.

Mary blinks, momentarily frozen to the spot.