Fifteen-year-old Narissa, is caught up in a civil war. With her father missing, she is left to help her mother care for her two younger siblings. Everyday life in the war-torn city is demanding: schools are bombed, food is scarce and spies are everywhere.

Inspired by a vision, Narissa undertakes Herculean endeavours: helping in the hospital; learning first aid; teaching her siblings; rescuing people. She searches for the meaning of freedom and democracy.

Her kindness leads her to Theo, a young doctor in the makeshift hospital. He offers her the chance of a better life but will she safely reach the refugee camp, will Theo meet her there and will they escape over the border to safety?