Justinian's life is saved and his heart is lost to Theodora. Ursus, the gladiator, vows to devote his life to Theodora's service. The reign of Emperor Justin is a tumultuous one as he proclaims his nephew, Justinian, heir to the throne. Prince Rechizad, who had lived and hoped in vain for both the throne and the hand of the fair Theodora, is taunted by the court fool and the Emperor's guards, he vows vengeance upon Justinian and the admired Theodora. Justinian being ordered to Rome secretly weds, is in a short time taken prisoner by Theodoric, King of the Goths, where he is held a captive in the Gothic court. A year later he received a scroll from Theodora, saying he must return and claim the throne as Prince Rechizad is in open rebellion and Emperor Justin dying. His sensational escape from the Gothic prison and request to her to hold the throne, that Ursus will arm the gladiators and proclaim her queen. He arrives before the Emperor dies, defeats the Goths and is crowned king by his uncle Justin.