In 1347 at an Italian convent, Sister Ginevra notices Sister Fernanda missing morning prayer, later finding her with a donkey that supposedly escaped. Ginevra questions Fernanda wearing her black habit in spring and suspicions arise when the donkey goes missing under Fernanda's care. Meanwhile, Sister Alessandra lives a miserable life, forced to support the church by her father. The nuns' interactions with handyman Lurco also highlight their strict lifestyle.