Young Maria Theresia has a clear idea for her life. She will marry Franz Stephan of Lorraine and be a mother to many children. Her father, Emperor Charles VI and powerful Prince Eugene have a different plan for her. When Charles VI dies, Maria Theresia ascends to the throne. Affairs of state take over her life. In spite of tireless efforts she seems to fail at both, her new role as a ruler and her old role as a wife and mother. The enemies of Austria see an opportunity to defeat and divide the empire.