"[3][4] The film is set in the 17th century during the Swedish invasion of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in the years 1655 to 1658, known as The Deluge, which was eventually thwarted by Polish-Lithuanian forces.

A series of violent clashes ensue, culminating in Kmicic burning the estate of the Butrym family and abducting Olenka.

Disillusioned, Kmicic attempts to capture Janusz's brother, Prince Bogusław Radziwiłł, but fails, finding himself hunted by both sides as a traitor.

Rescued by allies, Kmicic seeks out King Jan II Casimir in Silesia, saving him from a Swedish ambush en route.

The Polish forces, led by Czarniecki, launch a decisive counterattack against the Swedes, with Kmicic playing a key role in their victory.