Sisi and Andrassy try to escape, with Grunne’s help. Franz falls back into old patterns and not only comes into conflict with his mother, but also begins to doubt Sisi.

Franz and Sisi are happy that there is an heir to the throne, but Sisi feels trapped in a golden cage. A new threat of war forces Sisi and Franz to travel to France.

At Count Andrassy's country estate, Sisi is reminded of the freedom of her childhood; as the courtly constraints slowly fall away from her, Sisi realises that the Hungarian people need her help ...

To ensure Andrassy remains loyal, Sisi goes to Hungary. But will she remain focused?

Sisi and Andrassy travel to Vienna to convince Franz of the need for a Hungarian parliament; Sisi tries to clear her head; the special affection between Sisi and Andrassy does not go unnoticed by ...

Sisi succeeds in persuading Franz to meet Count Andrassy during a reception in Budapest and negotiate a peace treaty. At the height of the festivities, another dangerous incident occurs.