| Overview |
Elizabeth’s decision to side with one sibling leaves the Lord Protector Somerset trying to maintain the balance between the two opposing religions. As Catherine’s sworn enemy the Catholic Bishop Stephen Gardiner is released from the Tower, Elizabeth is horrified by the chain reaction she has unwittingly begun. Catherine and Thomas blame Elizabeth as they panic that the game is sliding out of their control. Having felt canny to the ways of court and politics, Elizabeth is left feeling very young and more aware than ever of how precarious peace in England is. But when Catherine and Thomas plan a large celebration for her 15th birthday she is relieved to think she is back in favour with them both, little knowing her step-parents see it as a chance to bring the court and king to Chelsea, and enact their plans to have Jane marry Edward. |
