In the Southern Arizona desert a group of idealistic scientists, some refugees from the Biosphere 2 project, have constructed an isolated community called Kihhim (Tohono O'Odham for the Village). Away from the prying eyes of the press, the public, and government regulation, they built a society along the principles behind Biosphere 2. At the foot of Baboquivari Peak, the Tohono O'Odham legendary birthplace of the People, in a secluded valley, they are almost a space colony, yet on the Earth. To maintain an independent and almost closed ecosystem, they have genetically manipulated plants grown in their greenhouses to enhance the productivity. When the body of Marty Hinson, a prominent environmentalist is found on their property, they come under the very scrutiny they have avoided. Accusations are lodged, and they are investigated by the United States as isolationists with potentially harmful technology. Religious zealots and terrorist Ralph Whitney attack them for their biological technology and genetic abilities. Kihhim flees the United States, leaving behind their leaders John Vance and Katherine Levey, imprisoned as subversives. Using the designs of Rich Lewis, they construct a giant catamaran of supertankers and establish Kahchk Kihhim (Tohono O'Odham for Sea Village), a nation at sea. Security Supervisor, Leticia Gardner initiates an extortion plan that threatens the existence of humanity in order to obtain protection from the United States. This marine civilization uses genetic engineering to adapt themselves to life at sea. The shield of protection established by President of the United States, Ron Carson is breached, and prominent figures of both Kahchk Kihhim and the United States are killed. The ensuing investigation reveals backing for the attack by a major world power, and they become embroiled in global politics. When the extent of their genetic engineering is revealed, the major powers in the world realize both the potential resource and threat to humankind Kahchk Kihhim represents. Kahchk Kihhim understands that once their extortion threat is nullified, they will be subjugated or destroyed. Under the leadership of Katherine Levey, they race ahead on a program to grow a new underwater habitat utilizing the genetic engineering of Jamie Wong. The citizens of Ocealla will consist of humans, modified humans, modified dolphins, and a completely new genetic construct.