After returning from combat to a quiet garrison town, Dan and Richard struggle in their different ways to regain a sense of normality. Dan, desperate to prove to his neighbours that he isn't the violent, unstable veteran they'd expect, sticks to a rigorous routine, keeps his head down. Richard, on the other hand, doesn't resist his impulses, repeatedly flouting the law and spending money he doesn't have while his home life falls apart. The arrival of Richard's sister-in-law, Marlene threatens to destroy what little peace the two men have, calling into question their seemingly unbreakable bond.