Zheng Dynasty. In the boundless waters of the oceans of the Nine Kingdoms, people search for a wondrous pearl. The inhabitants of the coastal region bear heavy tribute. A young Haishi helps her father by diving for pearls. In one such voyage at sea, the other hunters perished, and the girl miraculously escaped death from the sharks' teeth. Meanwhile, soldiers plunder Haishi city, and she blames the emperor, holding him responsible for these events. Soon Haishi meets Fan Jiangmin, the emperor's advisor, and becomes his apprentice.