The Great War rifts Man and Necroms (cat-like humanoids ). Man flees, establishing five island kingdoms. Necroms fall into myth, but not Man’s hatred. A witch hexes a girl, Pluck, which was meant for a boy, Prince Edward of Fletching, for stealing the Mystic Rose. Pluck transforms into a Necrom with the Kiss, Edward’s first kiss as her only redemption. Not an easy task when showing her face means her death. Pluck, older, disguises herself and journeys with Edward to protect him as he rushes to claim the crown. First royal couple reaching Kismet is crowned Emperor and Empress of the Five Kingdoms. Edward retrieves his betrothed, Princess Virago. Can Pluck receive the Kiss before his new wife claims it? They shipwreck and the race continues as they search for ships. To their horror they discover the Necroms are no myth and Man learns what it is to be hated.