Based on an acclaimed 1935 novel about the War of Liberation (1918-1920) that ensured Estonia's independence, the film tells about a group of young schoolboys heading to the front to fight the army of Soviet Russia. Two brothers choose the opposite sides in a civil war of a small country. November 1918 the army of Soviet Union conquers Narva´s and Petser´s cities in spite of their peaceful announcements. Government of Estonia declares general mobilization. Ahas, son from a poor family, in his inner struggles, joins the troop of his classmates and heads for the front. Through battles and adventures Ahas and his companions grow up, but destiny has some bitter surprises to offer.