In 1525, Gunter Behaim is a Landsknecht - a professional soldier in the service of Emperor Charles V. Gunter has been betrayed by love and promises not kept. As a result, he has sworn to make few promises of his own and keep those unto death. However, when his friend is mortally wounded while saving Gunter's life, Gunter gives a pledge to marry his betrothed. To keep his promise, Gunter must use every weapon in his romantic arsenal to convince the reluctant woman to marry him. As his passion for her grows, he realizes he is falling in love. Is he prepared to risk his worst fear: having his heart rejected once more?The Spanish beauty Alonsa Garcia de Aranjuez is determined to withstand Gunter's relentless pursuit. Haunted by a Gypsy's curse on any man who loves her, Alonsa yearns for Gunter but fear for his safety forces her to rebuff him. As she struggles to deny the growing attraction between them, she begins to realize that fate may have other plans. With danger surrounding them, will Alonsa bite from the forbidden fruit? Or will Gunter be bitten instead by the mysterious misfortune that seems to plague any with the courage to become Alonsa's love?