The time: 2520. The place: The planet Gauguin, a world of soaring mountains, glowing phosphorescent seas, and glittering black sands. A world more beautiful - and more dangerous - than its colonists ever dreamed possible. The seas of the newly colonized planet remain largely unexplored, so Philippa, Will, and Arkady consider themselves incredibly lucky to be sent on a marine research expedition. Their destination is the Colvisle Archipelago, a ring of volcanic islands which holds a promise of adventure - and danger.