The Civil War rages on. Despite some much-needed victories, losses have been harrowing on the Union side, and volunteers are getting scarce. That leaves conscription, but it's an extremely unpopular measure - especially because of the possibility to avoid it by paying a sum of money only the rich can afford. Yet the North has little choice but to maintain it ... and this is how, in July 1863 in New York City, simmering resentment turns into bloody rioting - with Blutch and Chesterfield caught in the tragic events.