Jaime Astarloa is a master-fencer of the old school, priding himself on the precision, dignity and honour of his ancient art. It is 1868; Spain teeters on the brink of revolution, his friends spend their days in cafe`s discussing plots at court, but Jaime`s obsession is to perfect the irresistible sword thrust. Then, Adela de Otero, violet-eyed and enigmatic, appears at his door. When Jaime takes her on as a pupil, he finds himself embroiled in dark political intrigues against which his old-fashioned values are no protection.