Night after night, Elva steps forth into the black sea, driving back creatures that surge forth from the waves.

He is one of the 'kannagi, ' white-haired, ageless warriors chosen to protect the people of the island. Although kannagi are destined to live short and lonely lives, Elva has found a devoted companion in Alto, whose touch heals the black stains left by the cursed sea, and who has sworn to free him from his cursed fate.

Consumed by revenge, Mikhail cuts a bloody swathe through the people of the village -- but can Elva bring himself to cut down his long-lost friend? In the traumatic aftermath, Alto begins pulling away from his beloved Elva. Dark secrets are brought into the light and their love for one another is reaffirmed as Elva takes matters into his own hands.