Exiled from Ruritanta for treason, Rupert of Hentzau returns secretly, determined to discover what takes Fritz von Tarlenheim to Wintenberg.

Rudolf Rassendyll is again forced to imitate his cousin Rudolf V after Rupert of Hentzau fatally shoots the King in a remote hunting lodge.

Rudolf Rassendyll sets a trap and Rupert of Hentzau receives an eagerly-awaited summons.

Rudolf Rassendyll goes on a journey with surprising results, and the King receives an unexpected visitor.

Queen Flavia is reunited with her true love Rudolf Rassendyll but the circumstances are less than ideal.

Rupert of Hentzau meets the play-actor face to face and the future of the kingdom is resolved.