Synopsis
Lithuania in the year 1811. Count Horezko trots through the breathtakingly beautiful landscape on horseback. All of a sudden, in between the golden wheat fields and the gleaming ears of silvery rye, he catches sight of thedilapidated family castle and is gripped by a profound sense of sadness.
Horezko was where the young Count spent his early childhood; although he inherited the family estate on his mother’s death, this young man lacks the financial means to maintain the property. The thought of losing the
family estate is unbearable for Horezko.The magistrate Soplica, whose lands border on the Count’s estate, is much more wealthy and Count Horezko has finally decided to transfer the castle to him. Tomorrow the conditions for making over the property to Soplica are to be regulated before the court.
Horezko is deeply pre-occupied with these sad thoughts when suddenly a figure appears before him that seems to have come straight out of the Middle Ages. It is an old and infirm man whose head bears the scars of many sabre blows. When the old man turns round to face him, Horezko recognises their loyal servant, Gervais. In a voice that sounds as if it were coming from beyond the grave, Gervais recounts to the Count the events of a night of horrifying bloodshed,when the last of the Horezkos where brutally massacred inside the castle walls.
The man responsible for this murderous act was none other than the brother of the magistrate, Soplica.
Gervais’ words make the Count’s blood boil. He decides to go back on his agreement with Soplica and to reinstate the family honour – come what may. At first, however, he decides to take part in a hunt with the Soplicas, as agreed. He rides off towards their meeting place in the forest, where the dogs have already picked up the scent ...
