Author's summary:
Designed as a pedagogical tool for classes of 12 to 30 students, the game can also be played for recreation, as a large RPG. The game lasts between one and three sessions of approximately 75 minutes each.
The game depicts the political crisis that struck Elizabethan England in late 1586 - early 1587. Mary Stuart has just been sentenced to death for treason by the parliament, but for reasons unknown to the court, the queen has refused to ratify the sentence. All will try to understand the queen's secret intentions, and use that knowledge to their advantage.
Some courtiers will try to convince the queen to confirm the sentence, while others will explore alternative ways to resolve the Mary Stuart problem (possibly through murder). Meanwhile, Spain threatens war, the Netherlands request military assistance, France keeps an ambiguous position, and there are mounting tensions with Scotland (Mary being the mother of the current king). Also, rumors abound about a Catholic plot to storm Mary Stuart's prison, free her, and make her queen of England...
The players play the role of influential men in Elizabeth's circle, and attempt to pursue their unique goals through diplomacy, bribery, and conspiracy. Each player has four goals, one of which is related directly to Mary Stuart's fate, and three are of different nature. All characters are based on real historical figures. The entire game is based on extensive research, and designed to as historically accurate as possible. Gameplay is rule-light, and it consists almost entirely in discussion and diplomacy under the guidance of a Game Master. Designed to be played by players with no experience in RPGs, but full of interesting decisions for veterans too.