In 14th century Europe, William Thatcher, a peasant squire, finds himself without a master when his employer, a knight, dies unexpectedly. Inspired by his lifelong dream of becoming a knight himself, and driven by the prospect of fame and glory, William decides to assume his late master's identity. With the help of his loyal friends, Roland and Wat, and a new acquaintance, Geoffrey Chaucer, who forges genealogy documents, William transforms into Sir Ulrich von Liechtenstein from Gelderland. He enters jousting tournaments across Europe, utilizing his exceptional skills to compete against nobles, gradually making a name for himself in the sport.

As William ascends through the ranks of the tournament circuit, his charade brings him not only spectacle and recognition but also the affection of a noblewoman, Jocelyn, and the enmity of Count Adhemar, a skilled and ruthless competitor who becomes his chief rival. William's journey is not just a quest for glory, but a challenge to the strict class divisions of the time, as he fights for his dream against the backdrop of medieval politics and social hierarchy. His pursuit is a testament to the power of love, friendship, and the human spirit in the face of societal constraints.