The new assassination attempt on Franz was prevented, but the young imperial couple is struck by a terrible blow of fate in Budapest. The little princess Sophie dies. Sisi falls into deep, immeasurable grief and Franz distances himself from her more and more. In Europe the signs continue to point to war, Napoleon III claims parts of the Habsburg lands in Italy for himself. Sisi refuses to give up and fights - for herself, her people and her love for Franz!

In order to prevent a new war in Europe, Sisi and Franz must travel to France and ask Napoleon III for help. But it is not only their old enemy that worries them, but also an unexpected reunion.

On Count Andrassy's estate, Sisi is reminded of the carefree freedom of her childhood. As the courtly constraints fall away from her, the Hungarian's sensitive nature casts a greater spell over the empress.