The narrative unfolds in a future where Earth is largely depopulated, and a starship crew returns after 258 years to find a strange, militarized society. Upon landing, they encounter a deserted spaceport and heavily armed structures, suggesting a civilization that has regressed technologically despite possessing advanced weaponry. The crew, led by John Gray, cautiously explores the area, eventually meeting soldiers who exhibit a mix of archaic and modern customs. As they navigate this bizarre world, they learn that Earth has been under the control of Jovian invaders, leading to a military aristocracy that strictly enforces conservation laws. The crew's attempts to communicate and integrate are met with suspicion, culminating in their arrest for alleged espionage and sabotage. During a trial, they defend themselves against charges of violating conservation laws, asserting their ignorance of current customs. However, they are found guilty and sentenced to execution. A twist occurs when a malfunction in a heat-gun leads to a revelation about the society's technological decline. The crew's knowledge of atomic power becomes pivotal, as they realize they can help restore Earth's lost technology. The story concludes with the crew's potential role in rebuilding civilization, highlighting themes of survival, adaptation, and the cyclical nature of history.
By Charles L. Fontenay · First published 1950 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Adventure