With the Edwardian Empire coming to a close, Christopher Tietjens enters into a destructive marriage with cruel socialite Sylvia. He Ignores her constant flirtation with other men as he resolves to remain faithful to her, even after he encounters fearless young suffragette Valentine.

Sylvia and Christopher are publicly reunited but their private relationship remains turbulent. Christopher finds himself torn between his marriage and the way he feels about Valentine.

With many vicious rumours about Christopher circulating, it leads to tragedy at his family estate, Groby. Sylvia finds a new admirer who proves a distraction as the war continues and Valentine moves to London. Edith and MacMaster make plans for a new life together.

At Rouen, a tired Christopher attempts to get the soldiers ready for the draft. Back in London Sylvia decides to go see her husband in France, oblivious to the consequences the trip will have on him.

Christopher has to go fight on the Front with McKechnie and Perowne. Valentine waits for news of Christopher. Sylvia makes one final, desperate play for Christopher.