Juana Inés's wit catches the attention of the viceroy's wife. She must take a rigorous exam to prove she's worthy of being their daughter's tutor.

Father Núñez convinces Juana Inés to become a nun, but she quickly realizes that convent life is far from ideal and eventually falls gravely ill.

The viceroy and his family are ordered to return to Spain, and Vicereine Leonor is utterly devastated to leave Juana Inés.