A high-profile poisoning in the heart of the French court leaves a coveted vacancy, while pregnant Madame de Montespan exercises her influence at every opportunity. Is someone out to eclipse the Sun King.

The king's bad example is blamed for the nobility's immorality, fuelled by illicit love potions and powders. Philippe must meet his new bride. Another victim of poisoning confounds Marchal.

A cool welcome awaits Princess Palatine both in the palace salons and her new husband's bed, but Sophie's destiny is worse.

Marchal finds a prime suspect for the poisonings.

Preparations are made for war abroad, but battles of the sexes are waged within the palace itself, and there will be casualties.

The king's continued insomnia renders him even more volatile, so loyalty counts for little, as Marchal finds to his cost. Claudine investigates the mystery toxin, while Sophie seeks a solution to her miserable marriage.

Debauchery is banned when Marie-Therese takes charge while Louis is away at war. However, signing an urgent treaty requires a man's touch, if Philippe can be persuaded to play his part. On the battlefield, the king meets his match.
The court's shameless decadence cannot be suppressed as the lively period drama continues.

Clandestine discussions and an unexpected close encounter take their toll on Louis's mental state. Back at the palace mistrustful de Montespan questions where Madame Scarron's heart lies, while Queen Marie-Therese appeals to mourning Marchal to return.
The lavish French historical drama continues with intense confrontations and exposed jealousies.

Louis resolves to reassess his relationships, while Madame de Montespan is determined to make a memorable impression on him. Philippe fears losing another wife to the poisoning plot, and its unwitting victim Cassel has a revelation to make.

As Louis starts to doubt his divinity, devilish behaviour tempts some courtiers.
Rejected Madame de Montespan hopes a dark ritual will restore her status, while Philippe toys with Thomas, prompting jealous Chevalier to respond recklessly.

Louis and Philippe each face a foe in the bedroom, but the traitors strike back. Even in chains, poisonous Madame Agathe threatens the king. Sophie is torn emotionally.