In a dystopian future, Earth is under Martian occupation, ruled by a tyrannical figure known as Zharkon. Guardsman Venard and his companion Larson are imprisoned in a concentration camp, facing imminent death as the Martians retaliate against Terran resistance. The atmosphere is one of despair, with prisoners resigned to their fate, while Venard clings to a memory-crystal containing a holographic image of his lost love, Vale. This crystal holds the potential for explosive destruction, offering a means of escape from the horrors of the experimental wards where prisoners are subjected to gruesome experiments. As they await their fate, Venard grapples with the possibility of an underground resistance on Mars that may have succeeded in injuring Zharkon, which could destabilize the Martian regime. The narrative explores themes of hope, despair, and the struggle for freedom against overwhelming odds. Venard's determination to resist, even in the face of death, contrasts sharply with Larson's fear and resignation. The story culminates in a tense moment of decision, as the two men confront their mortality and the possibility of rebellion, highlighting the human spirit's resilience amidst oppression.
By Bryce Walton · First published 1976 · Genre: Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, Suspense · 6 chapters