Forced refugee from Russia Sergei Lysenko, by the will of fate, ends up near the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, where he helps the experienced stalker Stary escape from captivity. For the opportunity to earn extra money and a chance to get new documents, Sergei temporarily agrees to become a partner of a Zone veteran to help him pick up valuable goods from a cache. The military and the mercenary clan are hunting for the fugitives. Thanks to Sergei's prophetic dreams, the companions manage to penetrate into the very heart of the Zone, stir up the deadly viper, reveal the mysterious secret of the Monolith and deal with the enemies. Along the way, friends arrange a real redistribution between armed groups, enter into battle with the bloodiest killer of the alienated territory, face betrayal from their fellow craftsmen and reveal the true face of the Master of the Zone. What choice will a newcomer make when he feels the cold breath of Death? Will he want to return home after escaping from hell? Who will win the confrontation between true male friendship and the corruption of human society?