Ekaterina II: The Rise of Catherine The Great

It is the sixth year since Ekaterina ascended the throne. Conditions are harsh, with all of Russia in danger of famine. The Orlov brothers make a reconnaissance to the border, where Turkish forces have raided and pillaged. Ekaterina gathers her counsel, looking for ways to respond against the Turks. The Empress prepares to marry her beloved Grigory upon his return, but some do not approve.

Stanislaw the Second, King of Poland, meets with Ekaterina to discuss relations between the two nations. Grigory returns, but brings along an illness within him. He, along with his brother, seek a treatment. Pavel Petrovich continues his lessons with Semyon Andreevich and inquires about the fate of his father. A Turkish ambassador makes his way to St. Petersburg.

Ivan Ivanovich arrives, taking up a position in Ekaterina's court. The Empress assigns a difficult task: to paint a portrait of her younger son, Alexey. Pavel Petrovich and Semyon Andreevich visit the summer palace, where Pavel learns more about his father. Lieutenant Potemkin continues his new post, as Ekaterina continues to keep her eyes on him.

Grigory denies the significance of his illness. The Turkish ambassador arrives, bearing many gifts for the Empress. She denies them, sending a message to Sultan Mustafa. Alexey Orlov pleads with the Empress to accept a rare breed of horse from the Turks but later attains it by his own means. Count Panin deals with the Turkish ambassador in the shadows.

A brilliant party ensues the palace and the nobles dance merrily amongst themselves. Anna Petrovna storms in, bringing along with her a deadly black small pox disease. Luckily, no one else is infected, but the fate of Anna is uncertain. Count Panin falls deeper into his gambling vice. Ekaterina's younger son arrives at the palace, but disappoints her. Pavel and Alexey become friends.

Alexey becomes more acquainted with Pavel and his friends. The Holy Synod attempts to put pressure on Ekaterina's decision to marry Grigory Orlov. Count Panin continues to reason for Pavel's sole right as the heir of the throne. The Russian ambassador arrives in Constantinople, but is clearly unwelcome. Ekaterina gives a difficult task to Sofya.