Dr. Frank Light, archaeologist, is vastly annoyed. He’s settled into a plush life - cushy department-head job at a university, suave girlfriend, book in the works. Now he’s been ordered into the sludgy, back-water marshes of Maryland to fend off hordes of mosquitoes, all because of an inconsequential find at a bridge construction site. Maggie, the outspoken state archaeologist working the dig, insists the shipwreck has historical significance. Pastor Allingham is even more vehement, insisting the decaying timbers hide a rumored, long-lost slave graveyard. Real estate tycoon Jake Terment is furious that his construction project is held up by the growing concerns of Frank and his team. Jake cranks up the pressure for a quick resolution. Others passionately feel the archaeology project should either come to a crashing halt or press full speed ahead. An eclectic group of butterfly fanatics, a mysterious waterman of Mexican heritage, a curvaceous movie star, and even ghosts make their presence known. When several attempts are made on the team members' lives, Frank draws on lessons from his Vietnam vet past. He has to decide on which side of this battle to stake his claim - and if he is ready to risk his life again for his beliefs.