Life has adapted to meet the demands of a world in resurgence. Niles Wentworth, captain of the airship water hauler Dusty Maiden and his crew, are on their way to the desert capital Dara City with a large shipment. During their journey, they come upon a Guardian airship under attack by pirates. Soon after the down to earth captain learns the world isn't what he thought it was—and only he and his crew, along with their new Guardian friends, can do anything to stop the coming threat.