All men of the Mollen clan can be identified by a gray strand at their temple. The owner of the fatal mark rarely lived to old age, and his life always ended tragically. This seal of curse is passed on from generation to generation, and with it - lust for power, selfishness, and cruelty. They create an unbearable situation in the family. But tender love, true friendship and kindness help the heroes of the novel survive. The tyrant of the clan dies, and hope for happiness appears.