The fire started by Luini devastates the only cornfield that Romeo's family has left. Romeo's family rush to the field to try to save the domestic animals, but Roberto injures his head while leaping out of the flames. After this tragic incident, Roberto's injury worsens and a rumor about Roberto intending to sell Romeo to the god of death spreads in the village. Then, after an argument with his father, Romeo runs away from home and hides in Anita's barn, where he hears that Roberto is not his real father. Meanwhile, Luini approaches Roberto and pressures him to sell his son.

Due to the injures suffered during the fire, Roberto's condition worsens to the point of going blind if he is not treated urgently. However, the family's financial situation prevents them from paying for the services of Baresi, the only doctor in the area. Romeo, aware of the situation, secretly signs a contract with Luini to go to work in Milan as a chimney sweep in exchange for the latter bringing the doctor to treat his father. The contract will be for six months, so Luini would be back to the village in spring. However, Anita hears that no children sold in Milan have returned.