Since you became King of Scotland, you have reformed the kingdom in your own rather 'Anglicised' vision.

You have gained power and authority, and introduced an official justice system in an unruly period of Scotland's history.

Your taste for the finer things in life develops Scotland's cultural life. The impressive palace at Linlithgow improves your reputation among European peers. You then secure your bloodlines by arranging marriages for your children to powerful European families.

During this time you have been relying more and more on deceit and double-crossing people to get what you want. Was this the only way to succeed?

Bloodlines of James I and Joan Beaufort. Their children were married into powerful political alliances.

The influence of European architecture and style on James I. The courtyard at Linlithgow Palace.

What happens next?

James I's self-indulgence and over-spending provokes anger and suspicion within the Scottish political community. In 1437, as the ultimate reaction, a group of rebels break into his chambers and assassinate him!

Some may suggest this was a fitting end to a deceitful, greedy monarch. Others view the assassination as an unjust end to the 'law giver' king. It seems that too much power can corrupt even the most 'civilised' of people.