Mallimes, a returning war veteran, is betrayed by his brother Marimpfel, the prince's guard commander, and joins forces with Runotter to protect peasant rights. Meanwhile, tensions escalate as spear-bearers attempt to seize cattle, leading to a deadly confrontation between peasants and soldiers.

Peasants, fleeing the Berchtesgaden estate to avoid the prince's reprisals, seek refuge despite warnings from Runotter. A strategic alliance forms against Pienzenhauer as Mallimes, Runotter, and Jula join different factions in the escalating conflict.

Lampert forges an alliance with Duke Ludwig, drawing him in with the prospect of war spoils and territorial expansion. As their coalition gains strength, Prince Pienzenhauer is compelled to retreat, allowing Mallimes to strategically capture Hallturm castle and earn a reward from Duke Heinrich. Jula witnesses the devastation, and her father, Runotter, seeks revenge.

Reichenhall's forces advance with Duke Heinrich towards Berchtesgaden, involving Mallimes, Runotter, and Jula. Reinforcements from Ingolstadt and Salzburg arrive, balancing the confrontation. Ramsau peasants return home, manipulated by Reichenhall's Chancellor Franzikopus, and Lampert rescues Mallimes.

In liberated Berchtesgaden, Lampert tries to prevent further conflict, but tensions rise as the prince and his allies aim to reclaim their territory, leading to deadly confrontations.