In the 1870s, Bulgaria is under Turkish rule, but the desire for freedom grows. Zahari Stoyanov, son of a wealthy herder, dreams of becoming a priest, reading "Miracles of the Virgin" to fellow shepherds, despite working for Hadji Rusi.
Zahari Stoyanov arrives in Ruse to enroll in Commercial School but becomes an apprentice to Master Mitr. He becomes a journeyman but dreams of education. By chance, he meets Nikola Obretenov, who recommends books to aid his self-education.
In 1872, Antim I is proclaimed Bulgarian Exarch and tours the lands to learn about local issues. In Ruse, people gather at the port to show respect, while Angel Kanchev prepares to go to Romania for weapons.
At the "Zora" center, Zahari meets Radi Ivanov, Toma Kardzhiev, and Ilarion Dragostinov. They guide him in self-education and reveal their ties to Vasil Levski. Eager to help, he joins them in hiding weapons for the uprising.
As the planned uprising faces unexpected challenges, Stambolov and a small group of revolutionaries, including Zahari, are forced to seek help. When their plans unravel, they must navigate dangerous terrain while trying to evade capture.
In 1875, Stefan Stambolov escapes capture and leads preparations for a new uprising. With Volov, Benkovski, and others, they organize revolutionary districts and form committees, rallying support.
Benkovski's temperament forces Volov to step down. As head apostle, Benkovski enforces strict orders, but the uprising lacks funds and weapons. Hopes for support from abroad fade, and the other districts fall behind in preparation.
In Panagyurishte, cherry trees are cut for cannons, and funds are raised for weapons. At Oborishte, Benkovski convinces the revolutionaries to let apostles make key decisions. Panagyurishte is chosen as the revolt's center.
Rebels take the konak in Koprivshtitsa. Kableshkov sends a blood-signed letter, calling for an uprising. Despite doubts, Benkovski declares the revolt, and crowds gather in Panagyurishte's square.
Rebels in Strelcha, led by Volov and Ikonomov, seize the konak and set Turkish homes on fire. In Panagyurishte, Benkovski's flag is raised. Urgent news arrives - Klisura needs help.
Scouts burst in with urgent news: a Turkish army and bashibozuks are advancing on Elejnik. A fierce battle erupts, and the rebels hold firm. Then, a message from Belovo - local fighters urgently need Benkovski.
The uprising faces collapse as key rebel centers fall. In Koprivshtitsa, local leaders turn against Panayot Volov and others, seeking to hand them over. Meanwhile, Panagyurishte falls into enemy hands, its fate uncertain.
The situation grows dire as rebel leaders make a desperate journey, facing overwhelming odds. The path ahead is treacherous, with dangers lurking at every turn, testing their resolve in ways they never expected.
