Publishers, pushed out of their profession, become oil rig operators to repudiate their past lives. After Henry Hilberts and Ian Fitzroy lose their jobs at a publishing house, the duo discovers the deed to the mighty Vousa: an oil rig stationed far from the mainland. Jobless and alone, the duo decide to become amateur rigmasters, dominating the South Side sea. Lovers Anderson and Mel travel to the East Side for a vacation. Unbeknownst to them, rebels have begun to forcefully recruit citizens into their fold. Stolen from their country, Anderson and Mel must decide whether to adapt to life as a refugee or die, enemies of the enemies of the government.