In 1938 Kurt has been denied an alcohol license for his restaurant several times, so he decides to petition the king. Even on the first visit the King asks a high price.
Kurt suffers under officials who protect the King. He was exiled to the USA, who sent him back, and then he was sent to Berlin, where he made a major error and was thrown in jail.
His jail term in Berlin done, Kurt made his way back to Stockholm. He was met from the train and then carted off to a worse place in Sweden. Luckily the person in charge there, made an arrangement with Kurt. Kurt's ex wife helps him.
While working at his ex wife's restaurant, Kurt is arrested and charged with blackmail. His ex wife tries to find him a decent lawyer, but many have refused. The case goes to court.