East of Sudan

In late 1884, Mahdist forces assault the British outpost Barash. Three soldiers and a woman with a young child flee onto a small riverboat, trying to outrun the siege. Major Harris is shot as they depart and dies soon after, setting a grim tone for their odds of survival.

The survivors cope with the loss as the battered boat leaks and they must bail water to stay afloat. They draw ashore to bury Major Harris, a grim reminder of the danger closing in on them. The act solidifies the mission as a fight for survival rather than escape.

The group introduces themselves: Private Richard Baker, Murchison, Asua, and governess Margaret Woodville. They discuss their aim to reach Khartoum, though their goals diverge as Baker questions the wisdom of tending toward the dangerous city. The dynamic starts to form under pressure.

Baker explains why reaching Khartoum may be perilous or ill-advised under the present siege. The plan diverges as they travel along the Nile, testing loyalties and priorities within the group. Tensions flare as the destination shifts from hope to caution.

Baker improvises a shelter for the impending storm, establishing a rough camp on the boat's lee. Margaret refuses to share the shelter with the men, underscoring tensions between the survivors and signaling complicating loyalties. The voyage grows more strained as night approaches.

The travelers face dangers from the river and its surrounds: natural hazards, Arab slavers, and a beleaguered local tribe. They barely survive several close calls as they press onward toward Khartoum, each near-miss sharpening their resolve. The journey tests fuel, faith, and friendship.

King Gondoko's son Kimrasi rescues them at a critical moment and decides to join the group. He becomes their ally as they continue toward Khartoum, adding strength and local knowledge to their trek. His presence shifts the balance of the group's dynamic.

Baker's blunt demeanor clashes with Murchison's authority and with Margaret's shifting affections. The conflict highlights the growing romantic tension at the heart of the group. Relationships strain under the pressure of imminent danger.

Murchison proclaims his love for Margaret, but she does not return the feeling. The revelation creates interpersonal strain within the group and tests loyalties as the journey continues toward Khartoum. Emotional undercurrents complicate their survival stakes.

Over time, Baker and Margaret fall in love, their relationship developing despite the strain of their perilous voyage. Their bond becomes a beacon of hope amid constant peril and uncertainty. The two outsiders find solace in each other as danger looms.

Past Khartoum, they witness a battle between Mahdists and the British in progress and join the fight. Their arrival coincides with a chaotic struggle that could alter the fate of the city. They choose to contribute to the defense rather than retreat.

Murchison's knowledge of a nearby Mahdist-held fort enables them to blow up the arsenal, turning the tide and saving the day for the British. The daring raid demonstrates tactical ingenuity under fire. The success elevates the group's standing and morale.

For his bravery, Murchison is commended by a British major. The recognition solidifies his status among officers and bolsters the group’s confidence. It marks a shift in power dynamics within their unit.

Baker is arrested for desertion following the chaotic operations, highlighting the fragility of trust under military discipline. The charge tests his loyalties and the relationship within the group. The outcome will shape their prospects moving forward.

In the aftermath of the upheaval, Margaret confirms her love for Baker, providing him personal redemption amid the turmoil. Her admission gives him a reason to endure the consequences of the desertion charge. Together they face an uncertain horizon with renewed resolve.