Perky student Inkeri 'Iiri' Paappanen and businessman Taavi Takkulainen fall in love during a boat trip, but a misunderstanding at a hotel in Stockholm causes their break-up. Returning to Finland, Inkeri applies to become a governess and gets a job at Taavi's parents' family. Consul General Albert, Taavi's brother intends to take advantage of Iiri in his political endeavors.

In 17th century Finland young Arvid is forced to marry Brita but their ways soon part when their respective fathers move to different places. Years roll by and Arvid grows up into a handsome and respected Thirty Years' War veteran known for his excellent fencing skills. However, he has fallen madly in love with a local maiden who does not reciprocate his advances, not to mention that his forced marriage to Brita is still valid.

Baron von Sumers, owner of the Tottisalmen estate, sends his mischievous grandson Klaus to learn manners at the vicarage in the neighboring parish. Yrjö, the vicarage's farmhand, has an accident because of Klaus and ends up in Tottisalmen for medical treatment. When Yrjö's resemblance to the baron's missing son is noticed, events from the past begin to unfold.