The protagonists of the episode are two young women: Mrs. Chomińska - the wife of a bank clerk, and her sister Aniela, who is engaged to Felicjan Dulski, also a clerk. Their life in a poor and neglected town is filled with monotony and boredom. The only attractions are historical monuments, paintings by Matejko, and celebrations of patriotic events made possible by the liberal policies of Emperor Franz Joseph. However, constantly walking through galleries is not quite what two beautiful young women expect from life. One day, the sisters decide to organize an evening with dancing. Delighted by the idea, they secretly dream that the ball will change their fate. However, they are in for a cruel disappointment. The party quickly turns into a compromising series of misunderstandings, arguments, and scandals.

Kraków in the year 1898 is one of the most vibrant centers of intellectual and artistic life in Europe. Freedom of speech and opinions, which is excluded in other partitions, attracts scientists, artists, and youth. One of the students of painting is Julka, the daughter of Mrs. Chomińska, whom we met in the first episode.

“Crazy Julka,” whom we met in Episode III, is now Judge Rolewska. She has money, a child, a loving husband, and an awareness of a wasted life. Her peace is disturbed by her former beloved - the poet Jerzy Boreński, who, illuminated by fame, has come from Paris to Krakow. A meeting occurs, leading to declarations of love.

The year 1914 has arrived. Everyone is talking about the impending war between the powers, which may bring liberation to Poland. The youth are flocking to join military organizations that prepare future Polish soldiers for combat. Both sisters - Mrs. Chomińska and Dulska - cannot understand why their children have strayed so far from them and do not feel gratitude for what they have tried to do for them throughout their lives. Finally, the war breaks out. On August 6, troops of soldiers marched from Kraków to the front, who were to form the nucleus of the future Polish army.