After waiting two years for her husband, Philip, to return from the Crusades, Isabella is devastated when his cousin, Roger returns with the news that Philip is dead. As she has no son, Roger is Philip's heir and he loses no time in claiming his cousin's estate. His plan to also claim Philip's widow is thwarted when she refuses to marry him.
Roger seeks the aid of Prince John, who commands the marriage, leaving Isabella no option. But when she discovers what Roger has promised the Prince in return for his help, she has no choice but to flee.