In late 1972 Belfast, during the early stages of the Northern Ireland conflict, a disturbed American soldier, Cain Adams, has arrived after having deserted in the Vietnam War. Though eager to return to the United States, Cain is unable to board a ship from Belfast for approximately one week. While meandering around the city, Cain eventually meets a middle-aged prostitute who propositions him. In her apartment, Cain humiliates her and threatens her with a knife before leaving.