The Borgias

The Pope dies. Rodrigo Borgia sees a last chance for election to the Papal throne.

Charles VIII of France invades Northern Italy on his way to claim the Kingdom of Naples.

The Pope turns his attention to crushing the treacherous Orsini family.

Cesare has renounced the priesthood for worldly ambition.

Cesare has caused a rift between Rome and the Kingdom of Naples.

Lucrezia has been persuaded to agree to another marriage.

Rodrigo Borgia has lost control of Cesare, who has made as many foes as conquests.

The Pope, fountainhead of all Cesare's power, is dead.

Cesare believes he can control the new Pope.