Beau Willimon

Paul confronts Stephen about his secret meeting with the opposition, emphasizing that loyalty is the only currency he values before firing him.

Francis Underwood reveals he has covered up Peter Russo's criminal indiscretions, using the leverage to demand Russo's absolute loyalty.

Stephen confronts Molly with money for an abortion and demands she leave the campaign to protect the candidate and the election's integrity.

Zoe Barnes visits Francis Underwood at his home late at night to propose a mutually beneficial relationship of leaked information and media protection. They engage in a high-stakes verbal chess match where Zoe attempts to prove her value and discretion to a powerful politician who is wary of press intrigue. The scene establishes the foundation of their transactional alliance and the power dynamics that will define their future interactions.

A veteran campaign manager attempts to poach a talented young staffer by revealing a devastating political betrayal and questioning his loyalty.

Mon Mothma and Bail Organa discuss the necessity of speaking out against the Empire's rising tyranny and the urgent need for an escape strategy. While Mon is ready to risk everything to tell the truth, Bail reveals he must stay behind to buy time for the burgeoning rebellion on Yavin.

Claire Underwood ruthlessly orders mass layoffs at her non-profit to fund a new initiative, asserting her authority over a hesitant office manager.

Stephen confronts a rival campaign manager about a leaked secret meeting, facing blackmail and a tempting offer to defect to the opposition.

Queen Elizabeth I and Cecil discuss the political necessity of her remaining unmarried and the looming threat of civil war in Scotland.

Zoe Barnes visits Frank Underwood late at night to propose a mutually beneficial relationship of leaks and information. They engage in a high-stakes power play where Zoe uses her ambition and bluntness to convince the seasoned politician to break his rule against press intrigue.

Francis Underwood is blindsided when Linda Vasquez informs him that the President-Elect will not be nominating him for Secretary of State as promised. Despite his immense contributions to the campaign, he is told he must remain in Congress to push through education reform. Francis is forced to swallow his rage and pledge his loyalty while secretly reeling from the political betrayal.

Frank Underwood is blindsided by Linda Vasquez when she informs him that the President-Elect will not be nominating him for Secretary of State as promised. Despite Frank's reminders of his loyalty and hard work during the campaign, Linda insists he is more valuable remaining in Congress. The scene establishes the catalyst for Frank's vengeful quest for power as he is forced to swallow his pride and feign support for his rival.

Molly confesses to Stephen that she had a sexual encounter with the Governor and is now facing a crisis that could ruin the campaign.

Francis Underwood introduces the key players of the new administration while asserting his own influence as the House Majority Whip. He reflects on his role in the election and expresses his expectation of a high-level promotion as a reward for his loyalty.

Mary Stuart confronts the Protestant cleric John Knox over his public defiance of her authority and his misogynistic rhetoric.

Act I, Scene 1. After being passed over for Secretary of State, Francis returns home to face a furious Claire, who is more disappointed in his lack of foresight than the loss itself. She refuses to accept his apology, challenging him to reclaim his power and ruthlessness. The scene establishes their unique, cold, and highly ambitious partnership as they process a major political defeat.