There were major riots in Vranje and its surroundings in 1870. The bandits who make a mess wherever they appear kill the local muslim, Ibrahim Bey. Heartless Tone beat his wife Stojna and threw her out on the street. She is taken care of by the maid Stana, whose illegitimate daughter Stojna is, but she was never allowed to admit it to her.

On the other hand, Jovca wants Mitka's son to compensate him in trade. He wants to spend more time at home and devote full attention to his favorite, daughter Vaska. Mitke is ready to venture into trade, but regardless, Jovca is distrustful of his abilities.

Vaska left the house because her father, Jovca, threw her out of the house when he found out that she became pregnant with a servant. Regardless, Jovca goes to her dilapidated house and observes it, for a long time, in silence. Jovca's son Mitke tries to cheer him up because it's Easter. Jovci is not ready to celebrate with his family. He curses anyone who wants to help Vaska.

Mitke continues with his love adventures. He meets Redžepovica when her husband, Redžep aga, is away from home for a long time. One evening, however, Redzep aga with an armed escort entered the room where Mitke and Redzepovica were.