Just after the approach of the German units and the bombing, Kiev is liberated from the Bolsheviks. Power passes into the hands of Hetman Pavel Petrovich Skoropadsky. There have already been 18 coups, among residents there is no confidence in anyone or anything. In the family of military doctor Alexei Turbina a tragic event occurs - the mother of Alexei, Elena and Nikolai Anna Vladimirovna dies.

Nikolai Turbin runs into the house excited and joyful - mobilization! Juncker hopes the volunteer army will be able to restore order in the city, but older fold know there's no need to build illusions. Only now, while the enemy is on the outskirts of the city, is the mobilization of the Russian officers announced.

Guard officer Shervinsky continues to aggressively care for Elena Vasilyevna. He comes to the Turbins and declares to her husband that ran away will never return. Therefore, he again confesses love to Elena and promises that she will be happy with him. Alexey Turbin is outraged by the behavior of the Hetman at such a difficult moment for the city and country.

The Turbins' family gradually gathers in the dining room for breakfast in the morning. Lieutenant Myshlaevsky again appears not at his best. Myshlaevsky is grateful to Elena, confesses her love and, as always, admires her beauty, intelligence and talents. Alexey Vasilyevich is again dissatisfied with the actions of the authorities and personally Hetman Skoropadsky.

Colonel Kozyr-Leshko, together with other commanders, assembled in the headquarters carriage of the nationalist army, getting acquainted with the plans to capture the city and the disposition of the regiments. The head of the Alexander Gymnasium, Colonel Malyshev takes the floor and announces that abrupt changes have taken place in the city.

Julia continues to care for the wounded Alexei Turbin. He is still in serious condition, but rushes home, worrying about the fate of his sister Helen, whom he left at home in the morning. Meanwhile, Elena is at home; she still cannot understand the catastrophic changes that have occurred in Ukraine.