In a future society governed by a semi-anarchistic organization known as the Syndic, Charles Orsino, a young man with limited familial influence, navigates his role as a bagman for the Syndic while aspiring to rise within its ranks. His daily tasks involve collecting payments from various businesses, ensuring their compliance with the Syndic's demands. Orsino's life is intertwined with the Syndic's operations, which are marked by a blend of organized crime and a semblance of public service. As he interacts with various characters, including a disgruntled banker and a pub owner, Orsino grapples with the moral implications of his work and the expectations placed upon him. The narrative explores themes of power, loyalty, and the complexities of a society where traditional government structures have collapsed, replaced by a system that prioritizes the Syndic's authority. The story escalates when a violent incident occurs during a theater performance, revealing the dangers inherent in Orsino's world. As he confronts the reality of betrayal and the precarious nature of his position, the lines between personal ambition and the Syndic's ruthless operations blur, forcing him to reassess his loyalties and future within this unconventional society.
By C.M. Kornbluth · First published 1958 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian Fiction, Political Fiction · 21 chapters