Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Henry's search for another wife continues through portraits and diplomatic possibilities, with Cromwell seeking an alliance that will protect his religious programme. The king's interest in prospective brides remains tied to how they look as well as what their families can offer. Marie de Guise is no longer available once her marriage is settled, closing one route Henry had been reluctant to abandon. At the same time, his leg threatens his life. Brandon controls access to the sickroom, and Edward Seymour pushes past that boundary to learn what is happening. The household begins considering who would succeed if the king fails to recover.
Edward's infancy and Mary's adulthood make the question more difficult than the existence of a son first suggests. Brandon sends guards for Mary and prays before making his decision, while surgeons intervene to relieve Henry's condition. The king survives and visits Edward, presenting himself alive with his heir even though the effort of walking and leaving the nursery reveals his weakness. Henry insists that the prince be kept safe. Elsewhere, punishment reaches Cardinal Pole's relatives, including a young prisoner taken from the Tower for his allotted fate. The assault on the family accompanies Henry's recovery, and the king ends the episode directing a triumphant challenge towards the cardinal who remains beyond his reach.