Night after night, Elva steps forth into the black sea, sword in hand, to drive back the creatures that surge from the waves. Elva is one of the 'kannagi, ' warrior priests chosen by the divine to protect the island. With his snow-white hair, unaging youth, and black-stained limbs -- proof of the corruption that gradually takes the life of every kannagi -- the local people fear and shun him... at least until his path crosses with that of a boy named Alto. Enraptured by Elva's strength and lonely soul, Alto swears to serve him and free him from his cursed fate.

After eight long years, Alto has grown into a capable and fearless young man, unwavering in his devotion to his kannagi. Elva had long ago resigned himself to an early death -- but somehow, Alto's presence seems to be gradually healing him of the black sea's corruption...