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.

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.