In the last of Ingmar Bergman's trilogy of faith, three passengers travel through a foreign country on the brink of war. After falling ill, Ester (Ingrid Thulin) checks into a hotel room, with her sister Anna (Gunnel Lindblom) and Anna's son, Johan, occupying the adjoining suite. Anna ventures out into town and attracts the attention of a local waiter. When Anna tells Ester of her escapade, their emotional rift deepens.