In 1781, Countess Marie Karolina shelters an influential Abbé, a former Jesuit who vehemently opposes progress. Only Dr. Kamenický dares challenge him, restoring the countess’s zest for life. Her husband, obsessed with finding a hidden treasure, neglects the estate and seduces her ward Renáta. Meanwhile, returning exile Václav’s secret reunion with Frantina in cave hideouts is betrayed by jealous suitor Tomáš, who, with the Abbé’s help, unleashes a violent manhunt.