The story takes place in the fictional kingdom of Abidonia, where the royal family anxiously awaits the arrival of prince Penapju - the groom-to-be of the king's daughter, princess Albina. Meanwhile, the queen's ward, mute poet Patrik, is madly in love with Albina, but the princess just enjoys taunting him. While on his way to Abidonia Penapju's carriage is attacked by brigands, who rob the prince and live him blindfolded in the carriage that is sped down the road that ends in a cliff. Penapju is rescued by the wandering actors, Jacques and Martha. Jacques was born in Abidonia, but had to flee because of the cruelty of chancellor Daville, the man who holds the real power in Abidonia. Penapju asks Jacques and Martha to help him reach the royal palace in Abidonia, promising them reward for his rescue. As the trio arrives in the capital, they are promptly arrested, since Daville's laws are very strict towards wandering actors.