I've had this idea toying at the back of my head while watching all the hoopla of Mary's decision in setting the course of three nations by believing in Nostradamus' vision.
Everyone's head will roll every which way.
Force majeure is a common clause in legal contracts that essentially frees both parties from obligations when an 'act of God' event or circumstances beyond both parties' control prevent one or both parties from fulfilling their obligations under the contract. But, the clause, does not excuse a party's non-performance entirely and voids the contract, only suspends it for the duration of the Force Majeure.
Prologue - Because Marie de Guise is formidable.
"... along with vegetation, the land is also fertile with coal, iron and silver. And, gold. Good for craftsmen and their craft. I see a future in Smithing... "
"Spoken like a true king who knows his land and his people." Marie de Guise nods in awe.
"Indeed, we raised a good son." Henry boasted, proud at a son he never been a real father to.
"Then as payment for the betrayal of France-"
"Marie de Guise! What-"
"-and the humiliation France has set upon on Scotland-"
"Stop this nonsense, Marie! No payment-"
"On the contrary, Henry, I blame you for this nonsense! You betrayed Scotland. You! Bastard broke the alliance. And I will have my payment. I will have Scotland's payment!"
Marie, with determination and the iron-clad will of a harden sovereign, set her eyes, "I will have Francis, the real Dauphin of France, as payment!"