In which the industrious but idealistic David Séchard contends with the encroaching dominance of the prosperous Cointet Brothers, while renewing a profound friendship with the brilliant yet impoverished Lucien Chardon, whose family history and aspirations colour their shared struggles and dreams. Together, amid the decay of the old printing house and the glow of poetic fervour, they find themselves stirred by art, science, and the tender promise of young love, confronting the harsh realities that fate and society impose upon youthful genius.