Edward Sinclair, exiled with moldy grain and 36 mouths, turns to the sea. He grills shellfish, trades for a pot, and sets a work-for-points rule. He negotiates with salt bandits, evades the commissioner by selling seasoned fish, and builds a workshop. But the island is too small; an old case, a grain ship, and an imperial dish push him into greater dangers. He seeks survival and justice for all.