It’s 1916, and the Streshnayva family leaves St. Petersburg for their country home. Sofya’s father has been trusted with documents from the Finance Ministry, and the streets are rife with violence. On the way, their carriage is attacked by bandits. However, some of them recognize Afon as a friend and let them pass. Agnessa is critical and difficult throughout the journey, and Sofya reads letters from Eliza. They arrive at their estate, which is sprawling and surrounded by woodland. As they approach the house, they encounter a group of men trying to capture a bear. The sound of the approaching carriage scares them off and the bear escapes.

Varinka’s mother is still sick, but she prepares to receive a client who’s coming to hear her fortune told. Varinka wants her mother to ask the woman to give her a job on her estate. The client turns out to be Agnessa, Sofya and Luba’s stepmother. As she enters the small home, her manner is cautiously disdainful. Varinka’s mother inquires about a place for Varinka, and Agnessa agrees to hire her. The reading begins with Varinka’s mother telling Agnessa’s fortune through oracular cards.