: A bitter quarrel erupts among the cardinals as they prepare for the conclave to elect the next Pope. Rodrigo Borgia begins his intricate game of bribery and manipulation, aided by the valet-turned-spy Petronio to secure the necessary votes.
The climax of the episode is a masterclass in dramatic tension. The French ambassador, representing King Charles VIII, is a looming threat to the Papacy. Rodrigo’s enemies, particularly Cardinal della Rovere, are conspiring with the French to depose the Pope. Rodrigo needs the problem solved, but as Pope, he cannot be seen to act. borgia 1x03 full