Assigned to manage a challenging ninth-grade class of "war children" — independent yet emotionally immature teens — she encounters a variety of personal and societal struggles among her students.
Olya initially finds a confidante in Kira Sergeyevna, but their friendship falters when the teacher, wary of professional boundaries, retreats into a strictly formal relationship.
Drawn to their sense of community and emotional solidarity, Olya becomes deeply involved, abandoning her previous life and even alienating her father.
The climax occurs when the sect, interpreting Olya’s personal struggles as a sin of pride, decides to enact a symbolic crucifixion.
The story concludes with Kira’s efforts to bring the truth to light and Olya’s narrow escape, leaving an impactful commentary on isolation, vulnerability, and the search for belonging in a rapidly changing world.