In 1815, with Brussels on the brink of conflict, 18-year-old Sophia Trenchard secures her humble family invitations to the now-legendary Duchess of Richmond's ball on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo.
The depths of Stephen's problems are revealed, causing John to set his manipulative sights on Charles and Caroline as a way to make money; Susan isn't shy about exploiting the Trenchard's new social circle.
Tensions rise when Caroline organizes an outing for Lady Maria and Anne; Susan's indulgent behavior catches up with her; Ellis begins to show her true colors.
A jealous Oliver threatens to ruin the lives of many as he makes a shocking discovery about Charles; John's plans are jeopardized, making him dangerous; he enlists the help of the Trenchard staff to stoop to new lows.
Charles receives a mysterious olive branch, but the offer of reconciliation places him in grave danger; James must find a way to defend Charles' honor before Lady Maria is lost to him forever.