It is spring 1915. Araksi, a 19-year-old Armenian, and her family, living in Erzurum near the Turkey-Russia border, are yet to feel the effects of the First World War.

In fact, life seems settled and safe. The family are well off and highly respected in their community. Araksi is happily employed as a teacher and is engaged to be married to impetuous young lawyer Diran.

A new German Consul arrives in the shape of young, ambitious Max von Swirsden-Righe - a lieutenant in the German army. Whilst his wife waits faithfully in Munich for his return, Max engages in a dangerous...