The picky Zharynin rejects one after another the script options for his new film. In search of a suitable plot, he and Kokotov go through many stories, becoming more and more distracted. Kokotov has a hard time - he is prevented from thinking soberly by a suddenly flared up feeling, apparently mutual. Meanwhile, trying to save the Veterans' House from raider bandits, the writer and director end up at an appointment with a high official and even enter into negotiations with swindlers.