The end of the XIX century. Petya, an eight-year orphan who has been cast in training German acrobat Karl Becker, who curses and beatings would incorporate the new assistant to the circus profession and ruthlessly exploited child in their speeches. The only consolation, brightens the harsh life gutta-percha boy, as referred to Petya on the posters, is the concern of the carpet clown Edwards, who regretted the fatherless and secretly taught him this circus arts...

Veronika and Boris come together in Moscow shortly before World War II. Walking along the river, they watch cranes fly overhead, and promise to rendezvous before Boris leaves to fight. Boris misses the meeting and is off to the front lines, while Veronika waits patiently, sending letters faithfully. After her house is bombed, Veronika moves in with Boris' family, into the company of a cousin with his own intentions.

1943. Soviet intelligence Saeed Islambek, "26th", manages to infiltrate as an instructor in the SS special school, where defectors from Central Asia study. Loyal to his assistants become a scout-Uzbek Nadia, Secretary of the chief of the special school, and Deputy chief of the Gestapo Berg. When one of the most important military tasks are dying, sacrificing himself, Nadia and Sayid.