France in the Middle Ages is torn by internecine strife, and menaced by the might of England's King Henry V. At the country's head is a frightened youth, the Dauphin Charles. Yet fate has decreed that it is he who will become the most victorious king of all, who will drive the English from French soil. And it is through the love of women that this prophecy will come true. The magnificent Yolande, more a mother to him than the depraved Queen Isabeau; Marie, his plain but intelligent wife; and Agnes, his exquisite mistress, all play a part. Yet above all will be Jehanne, the unblemished girl who will ride at the head of his army while swearing allegiance to the mysterious Knight's Templar - the girl who will become known to legend as Joan of Arc.