Humans call them elves or sprites, but these beings call themselves gnomekind. They are divided into two primary groups: the magical Old World Gnomes and the scientific Techgnomes. Communication between these two worlds is strictly forbidden. And yet, from time to time, the rules get broken. Not all rule-breakers are bad, however, as teenaged gnomes Ak'ten and Pete may prove. Forging a forbidden friendship, the two young gnomes set out together to make a daring rescue inside Fenrir's fortress. Years ago, the Old World prince, Fenrir, uncovered a power buried in the shadows of gnome myths. Blending the two worlds of magic and science to unify his sinister cult of Darkgnomes, Fenrir has become obsessed with finding a fabled artifact known as the Devil's Pearl. Their quest leads Ak'ten and Pete into unfamiliar realms, and each must embrace the unusual and sometimes dangerous aspects of the other's culture. But their mission is more urgent than either of them realize. Fenrir has grown dangerously close to achieving his ultimate goal. The keys to obtaining the Devil's Pearl are within his grasp, and whoever possesses the Pearl will rule the world.