In 1928 a group of german refugees from the Soviet Union under the leadership of the sought after engeneer Laudy arrives at the by fights damaged chinese town Charbin. The travelling to the sea is denied for them by the international agency because of the diplamatic crisis. Even the german soldier Areth denies to help them first. But when Laudy collapses caused by the hopless situation, Areth organizes with Laudy´s sister the escape of the group by train.