First published 2009
Balsa pulls a drowning boy from a violent river. The boy is Prince Chagum, and saving him transforms her life completely. The wandering warrior discovers that Chagum carries the egg of a water spirit. This egg must reach the sea or terrible consequences will follow. Balsa agrees to guard the prince on his dangerous journey across the kingdom of Yogo. They face two relentless threats. The Rarunga, a creature that devours spirit eggs, stalks them across the land. Even more dangerous is Chagum's own father, who wants his son dead. As they travel toward the ocean, Balsa and Chagum uncover the true nature of the water spirit. The warrior must use all her skills to keep the prince alive. Their bond deepens as they face each new peril together. This story blends Japanese mythology with fantasy adventure, creating a tale where ancient spirits collide with human ambition.
Genres: mythology, adventure, fantasy, japanese-literature
Vibes: atmospheric, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, found-family
Setting: Yogo
288 pages · Paperback · Scholastic Paperbacks