Pregnant with her second child, Elisabeth is under pressure to provide a male heir to the throne. An incident occurs during a state visit.

Franz sends Maximilian on a diplomatic mission to make an ally of Napoleon III. Sophie schemes to side-line Elisabeth and take charge of her children.

Elisabeth embarks on a charm offensive across Lombardy-Venetia. Franz gives Maximilian an opportunity to prove his loyalty.

As Leontine asks Alexander to abscond together, he makes a shocking discovery. A visit to Hungary brings tragedy to Franz and Elisabeth.

Seeking an escape, Elisabeth retreats to her family in Bavaria. Sophie seizes the moment to procure a better match for Franz.

As the Austrian Empire plunges into war, Elisabeth fights to keep her family together. Sophie discovers the consequences of her actions.