The Nero Aelius, a renowned galactic research vessel, is called in towards the oceanic planet of Haldoran to help identify and expunge an unidentified contagion that's plaguing the waters of the seafaring island nation of Nigellum. No one knows what the contaminant is or how the outbreak started, but a recently surfaced chasm at the center of atoll is thought to be the source.

Azamat Uxlow, a young research intern aboard the Nero Aelius, is ecstatic to be working alongside vanguards in the field on this unforeseen outbreak. Beyond his assigned research, however, Azamat kept his ears wide open for any dubious developments brewing alongside the outbreak in Nigellum. Unfortunately, his vigilant snooping bears fruit, as he learns the very seafood group that called the Nero Aelius is thought to be behind the strange events taking place.

This leads Azamat to speculate that there’s more brewing behind the scenes beyond the water-borne infection. But, before he can pursue his inquiries, he is abruptly assigned to a new, unsettling task by his superiors. Azamat will take part in a daunting, deep-sea voyage within the atoll’s chasm, eventually leading to an uncharted trench at the bottom of it.

Although it’s a landmark for his new career, Azamat is remarkably apprehensive. What exactly is going on in Nigellum? And what awaits him within the recently discovered trench?

One thing Azamat knows for sure is that his answers will be made manifest, at his own peril.