It is 1803, six years since Elizabeth and Darcy embarked on their life together at Pemberley, Darcy's magnificent estate. Their peaceful, orderly world seems almost unassailable. They have two fine sons; Elizabeth's sister Jane and her husband, Bingley, live nearby; there is optimistic talk about the prospects of marriage for Darcy's sister, Georgiana, and preparations are under way for their annual autumn ball. Then, on the eve of the ball, the idyll is shattered...