Princess Frederica arrives in Russia. She is fascinated by Pyotr Fedorovich, learns Russian, admires Elizabeth's generosity and does not suspect that she is the object of close attention of Count Shuvalov's bloodhounds. Elizabeth leaves for a distant monastery, but is forced to urgently return to St. Petersburg. A terrible thing happened ...

After receiving her new name, Ekaterina is baptised and prepares for her wedding to Pyotr. Little does she know the affairs of her mother begin to jeopardize her chances of remaining safe and prosperous in Russia.