Isabel visits Seville, Castile's richest city but also a place plagued by crime and corruption. Juan II accuses Fernando of caring more for his wife's kingdom than for his. A border incident sours relations between Castile and Granada.

The King's long absence throws Portugal in confusion, but Isabel and Fernando are no less divided over their next move. Rome pressures Castile to adopt the Inquisition. In Granada, the jealous Aixa plots against the Emir.

Fernando lays siege to Malaga, El Zagal's stronghold and richest city in Granada, while the Muslims appeal to their brethren outside Europe. Isabel receives the two queens of Granada.