17th century Russia, where innocence collides with the harsh realities of life in the midst of a Cossack rebellion. In this gripping tale, Fyodor, 20, blond, extremely strong and a serf on a small Russian estate is chosen for a dangerous mission that will take him far from the only home he has ever known. As he ventures far from the safety of his estate, his innocence and naivety ultimately leave him vulnerable to criminals who relieve him of both money and documents including his transit papers, without which he is subject to arrest. Managing to evade capture he makes his way home only to be met with a scene of utter devastation--he finds the mutilated bodies of his fellow serfs and the once-prosperous estate now reduced to rubble. With his world shattered and his future uncertain, he is left with no choice but to seek refuge in the land of the Cossacks. Amidst the chaos and danger, Fyodor grapples with the harsh realities of life beyond the safety of his estate, confronting the brutality of a world he cannot fathom. But his strength and ability to read and write attracts the attention of the leader of the Cossacks who makes him an offer to join the Cossacks. Without identity papers he has few options so Fyodor agrees, not realizing doing so will bind him to the brotherhood for life. Traveling with the Cossacks and witnessing unimaginable brutal atrocities Fyodor eventually realizes he cannot continue without losing himself. But can he renounce his commitment to the brotherhood without losing his life? This is a chilling tale of violence, debauchery and cruelty pushing Fyodor to the brink as it tests his resilience and moral fiber.
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