Orphan Evan Yates, pressed by Titus Thorne, awakens a magical system to command beasts. His power angers the Thornes; Evan humiliates and eradicates their family. His sister, Elara, has severe rheumatic fever; Evan enters "The Phantom Abyss," commands a whale for the cure. News of his "Millennial Clam Sanctuary" leaks, attracting foreigner Maxwell's gunboat. Evan creates a "beast tide" to destroy Maxwell's warship, defending his home. Elara recovers, Evan leads the village to prosperity.