Scipio Africanus, the famous Roman commander, winner of Hannibal, leaves Rome for voluntary exile and, while on his estate, writes a book of memoirs. Compiling these notes, Scipio seems to be living life again, meeting with friends and enemies. The Battle of Cannae (a dark day in the Roman calendar), the Battle of Zama (the defeat of the invincible Hannibal) and other battles - all this comes to life in Scipio’s memory when he trusts the papyrus with secrets that he carried in his soul for many years. It's time for frankness, because he is terminally ill. And if not now, then when? And the desire to tell the truth about yourself helps to postpone the hour of death.