There is a legend in the Archipelago. Long ago, the ocean grew weak, and feared for his heart. He took to the form of man and walked among the people.

Tawhiri was a gift from the ocean. Plucked from the waves as an infant. The people of the Islands know that the Ri, the spirits of the ocean, abandon unwanted half-breeds on the shore. These demigods are destined to return to the sea and leave ruin in their wake. It has happened many times before.

Tawhiri has no interest in spirits or ruin. He loves his village, but as long as the elders forbid him from the ocean he cannot pass the tests which will allow him to become a full member. When Kai'Ali, a friend whose twisted foot has held her back along with Tawhiri, passes the test and leaves him behind, Tawhiri must battle the seeds of bitterness.

Then the ocean begins to call to him.