Velikaya

The heir's bride arrives in St. Petersburg, but he disapproves of her. Zalessky falls into a position within the court, due to his language skills. The young Catherine falls ill, all hope seems to be lost for her.

Despite obvious tensions, the prince and young Catherine are married and a grand reception follows. The morning after however, Peter's lie causes a shameful display and the Empress conveys her disapproval of his mentality towards the throne.

The Empress gives Catherine a generous gift. Catherine wins the favor of the imperial soldiers, further deteriorating her relationship with Peter. Zalessky challenges Grigory Orlov to a duel.

Peter is infected with smallpox, but makes a quick recovery that leaves him scarred. The army moves out to the battle front. After Peter is caught peeping, the Empress gives him a harsh punishment.

Catherine gives birth to a son, Paul, but he is swiftly taken away by the Empress. Zalessky is married and has a daughter. Bestuzhev hatches a plan for Catherine to see her son. Saltykov claims the baby is his, but Catherine denies it.

The British ambassador proposes an interesting deal to Catherine, but her decision is uncertain. Zalessky and Orlov are thrown in jail after fighting with the secretary of the British ambassador, Poniatowski. Catherine pleads for their release.

After delivering an urgent letter to Bestuzhev from the commander, Zalessky returns home. As the Empress's condition worsens, the entire court scrambles for power. Catherine is pregnant once again, but Peter is not the father.

The coup fails, leaving Bestuzhev, Catherine and the Commander to pay for their betrayal. Although their fate seems uncertain, Zalessky's actions might just save them from the gallows. Catherina and her right hand swear an oath.

An investigation ensues to unveil the culprits behind the coup and to prove their guilt. Catherine has a secret meeting with Grigory Orlov, while Zalessky sorts out his family life. The Empress realizes her time is coming to an end.

Both Grigory and Zalessky are given promotions in the noble court. The Shuvalov brothers urge to keep their enemies close, but will they win over Catherine's supporters? The Empress passes away and Peter comes to power.

Peter settles in as Emperor, things begin to change in the palace: all inspired by Friedrich of Prussia, his idol. As he throws away the hard work of many Russians, those on Catherine's side begin to act in order to save it all.

Riots begin in the empire, Grigory urges Catherine to officially declare herself the Empress. Bestuzhev returns to the court, giving strong willed advice to Catherine about her future.