Ivan Lorcan, a sixteen-year-old fish person, navigates the harsh realities of life as an orphan in the bustling port city of Maris. His scaly skin, tinged with shades of blue and green, glistens under the sun, a reminder of his aquatic heritage. His eyes, large and unblinking, reflect a deep, ocean-like hue, often giving away the emotions he tries to conceal. Ivan's attire is a patchwork of whatever he can scavenge; a tattered sailor's coat that barely fits over his slender frame, and worn-out boots that have seen better days. His unique trait is a melodic, lilting voice that seems to carry the echo of the sea, a stark contrast to his often grim surroundings.

Ivan's deepest desire is to find a sense of belonging and a place to call home. The bustling city, with its constant noise and hostility towards those of his kind, offers little solace. His attempts to integrate into human society are met with suspicion and disdain, leaving him isolated and yearning for connection. Yet, Ivan's resilience shines through as he forms a makeshift family with other outcasts, teaching them to fish and navigate the waters, skills he learned from his late parents.

Despite the odds, Ivan's efforts begin to bear fruit. His group starts to thrive, finding a semblance of peace and unity in their shared struggles. This newfound community not only provides Ivan with the belonging he craves but also instills in him a sense of purpose and leadership. However, the peace is fragile. The city's authorities view their growing influence with suspicion, leading to conflicts and raids on their settlement.

The climax of Ivan's journey comes when he must defend his new family from those who wish to see them scattered. Through cunning and bravery, Ivan manages to negotiate a truce, securing a small piece of land by the docks for his people. It's a bittersweet victory; while they have a home, the threat of further conflict looms large.

Ivan's life is a tapestry of struggles against societal rejection, the quest for identity, and the fight for a place in a world that seems determined to keep him on the fringes. His journey is far from over, but for now, he has carved out a space where he and his kind can dream of a brighter future.