The autumn of 1944. In the small remote village hides the former police officer Starshiyata. He finds shelter with a young widow. Gradually his ruggedness makes way for desire for human closeness. Kolyo tries to convince the peasants to take part in the organization of the new life. The people scare because the Starshiyata is still among them. Kolyo decides to handle the situation. His friend Vasil ventures to the neighboring village to get rifles. At the same time, Kolyo follows Starshiyata, but the latter kills him. The peasants are shocked. Vasil distributes the rifles. The men soon discover and surround Starshiyata. A shootout begins. A bullet hits Starshiyata and he falls from a hill.