Judgement Day comes for everyone at eighteen.

Until then, Emerald must stay concealed from head to toe in traditional laces. When the time comes to reveal herself, it could spell disaster for Emerald, so she goes to Dr. Benson seeking help. Even if she is deemed beautiful and worthy to join society, she will be forced to take a husband whether she wishes to or not, and if judged unworthy, her future is unforeseeable. The homely men stay in society and are put to work in undesirable jobs. No one knows what happens to the unfavorable women. The children have made up stories about a Boogie Man that comes for them in the night.