1945 summer For the eight children released from the Gross-Rosen camp, a makeshift orphanage is constructed in an abandoned mansion surrounded by forest. Hanka, a former prisoner, takes on the role of guardian for them. Following the camp's atrocities, the characters gradually reclaim what remains of their childhood, but the terror soon returns. The Alsatians from Camp Alsatians prowl the surrounding woods. They've gone feral and are famished after being released by the SS. They attack the palace in search of food. The kids are afraid, and their survival instincts at camp have been activated.