In 17th century France, cardinal Mazarin's death squad kills young Blanche's parents. She grows up to become a thief and steels a substance called Powder of the Devil and a coded letter that were sent to cardinal Mazarin. He is furious.
Five young conscripts lead a peaceful life in the barracks of a small town. Their officer is an eccentric man who lets them spend their time listening to music. The atmosphere changes completely with the arrival of a new officer who wants to prepare them for major maneuvers.