It was supposed to be a thesis. Samantha Wallingford is pursuing her advanced degree with a field study in an international region about which she has little more than theoretical knowledge, relying on her linguistic aptitude and interpersonal skills, Sam plunges into a complex society at the margins of massive population displacement intensified by an ongoing environmental crisis. From hi-tech urban life to traditional village clusters, offshore settlements and multi-ethnic waterfront might seem an ideal way to start. A less determined person would find something safer to do. It started as a research project. It wouldn't stay that way.