The Fate of Bishop Valdespino

The bishop's downfall from powerful advisor to suicide.

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The King's Confidant

A Lifetime of Service Close to the King Valdespino has been the king's closest friend and advisor for decades. He turned down a cardinalship to stay near him. Their relationship is platonic but deeply loving. Conservative Voice He is a staunch traditionalist, opposing liberalization. He becomes a target for atheists and progressives.

The Meeting with Kirsch

A Clash of Worldviews The Revelation Valdespino, along with Köves and al-Fadl, is shown Kirsch's discovery. He is horrified by the implications for religion. He urges Kirsch not to go public and leaves a threatening voicemail. The Threat This voicemail later becomes evidence against him, as it suggests he wanted to silence Kirsch.

The Framing

A Web of Lies The Text Message Valdespino receives a text from the Regent (Winston) that implicates him in the conspiracy. This text is later leaked, making him look guilty. The Arrest of Garza He orders the arrest of Garza to protect himself, but this backfires. He becomes isolated as the public turns against him.

The End

A Desperate Act The King's Death After the king's death, Valdespino is alone. He is accused of murder and conspiracy. He takes his own life by overdosing on morphine. A Silent Goodbye Prince Julián finds him dead beside the king. He covers it up as heart failure to protect the bishop's reputation. Valdespino's death closes the chapter on the palace's involvement.

Decades

Three days before the assassination

The night of the assassination

The next morning