The throne planet Tiamand is the stronghold of a religious cult that worships the black hole Kamastraka and is led by the Divine Empress. Servants of the cult - the Order of Witches - periodically select noble girls from distant planets who are to become the “brides” of the Divine Empress. Their future fate is shrouded in darkness...When the choice falls on the young Initsa Talantis, the girl does not at all intend to submit to her fate - her secret lover Glanis is preparing to escape. But the plan, which seemed impeccable in theory, begins to collapse at the first difficulties: the meanness of the witches, the shipwreck and the persecution of the “bride’s” uncle. In addition, Initsa and Glanis are joined by unexpected and unwanted allies: the seasoned mercenary Kranit and the former smuggler Shara Bitterstern. Will the four outcasts be able to escape the persecution of all galactic forces?