Apparently making a good confession, Pope Alexander VI dies; Cesare is still weak from the unknown gastric attack; some rejoice, few mourn--a new pope must be selected. The cardinals are afraid to enter the Vatican because of Cesare's presence. They meet with him at the Castel Sant'Angelo, demanding the removal of all armed men of all factions from the city. Cesare's main objectives now are preserving his lands, his family and his treasure; he agrees to leave Rome. When a compromise is reached in the election of such an old man as pope that he could be considered an interim leader, Cesare returns and seeks Pius' protection. He offers to finance the coronation in exchange. He believes everything is falling into place, but Pope Pius dies! Cesare is left without a protector, surrounded by enemies.